T-cell malignant lymphoma with conjunctival involvement.

PURPOSE

To report a rare case of T-cell malignant lymphoma involving the conjunctiva.

METHODS

A 63-year-old woman had rapid onset of bilateral perilimbal congestion and chemosis. Perilimbal thickening with corneal infiltration developed 20 days later. Computed tomography incidentally disclosed a right maxillary sinus mass. Biopsy specimens from the maxillary sinus mass and the left limbus were subjected to histopathologic examination and immunohistochemical study.

RESULTS

T-cell malignant lymphoma of diffuse large cell type, stage IV, was diagnosed. The patient was treated with combination chemotherapy plus 13-cis-retinoic acid and remained in remission 1 1/2 years after diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Conjunctival involvement with T-cell lymphoma may present as episcleritis and chemosis.