Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the ocular adnexal region: a nation-based study

PURPOSE

To characterize the clinicopathological features of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the ocular adnexal region.

METHODS

The present series of orbital and adnexal DLBCLs were found by searching the Danish Registry of Pathology between 1980 and 2009. Histological specimens were re-evaluated using a panel of monoclonal antibodies. Clinical files from all patients with confirmed DLBCL were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 34 patients with DLBCL of the ocular adnexal region were identified. Eighteen of the patients were men. The patients had a median age of 78 years (range 35-97 years). Ninety-seven per cent of the patients had unilateral ocular adnexal region involvement, and the orbit (76%) was the most frequently affected site. Nineteen patients (56%) presented with Stage I lymphoma. Of these, 18 were diagnosed with primary lymphoma. Four patients (12%) had Stage II, one patient (3%) had Stage III and ten patients (29%) presented with Stage IV lymphoma. The 5-year overall survival (OS) rate for the whole study group was 20%. The patients with Stage I lymphoma had a significantly better 5-year OS rate (28%) than patients in Stage II-IV (5-year OS rate, 9%). In Cox regression analysis, concordant bone marrow involvement and the International Prognostic Index (IPI) score were prognostic factors for OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the ocular adnexal region is mainly prevalent in elderly patients. Most patients had unilateral orbital involvement. The overall prognosis is poor. Concordant bone marrow involvement and the IPI score were independent prognostic factors for mortality.

Translocation (5; 11) in a conjunctival MALT lymphoma

Lymphoma is the most frequent malignant tumor of the ocular adnexa with the most common histologic type being extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (EMZL) of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma). Here we report a case of a 28 year-old male who presented with a left conjunctival mass of one year duration. A diagnosis of primary MALT lymphoma of the conjunctiva was made based on morphologic and immunopheno-typic studies. Chromosome analysis revealed a male karyotype with a translocation t (5;11) (q33;p11.2) as the primary chromosomal abnormality, which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first reported translocation in MALT lym-phomas and ocular MALT lymphomas as well.

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma presenting as sclerouveitis

PURPOSE

To report an unusual case of ocular peripheral T-cell lymphoma presenting as sclerouveitis.

METHODS

A 53-year-old woman presented with painful, unilateral sclerouveitis and was initially treated with antivirals and corticosteroids for what was presumed to be isolated ocular HSV infection with vasculitis. When she failed to improve the conjunctiva was biopsied and characterized by immunohistochemical and molecular methods. The literature regarding conjunctival T-cell lymphomas as well as lymphomas mimicking scleritis is reviewed.

RESULTS

Biopsies of a scleral/conjunctival nodule from the right eye were obtained on 2 occasions, the second of which revealed the presence of intermediate to large size lymphocytes that were CD3, T-cell intracellular antigen 1 and Granzyme B positive but CD56 and Epstein Barr virus negative. Polymerase chain reaction showed clonal T-cell receptor gamma rearrangements in DNA samples isolated from biopsy tissue. Another biopsy was obtained from a mucosal lesion in the oropharynx, which was shown to contain an identical T-cell receptor gamma rearrangement. These results led to the diagnosis of peripheral T-cell lymphoma. Conjunctival T-cell lymphomas have been reported in two other patients both of which also had involvement of upper airway structures. Five other reports of lymphoma mimicking scleritis are discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with sclerouveitis of unknown etiology unresponsive to conventional therapy. If a conjunctival T-cell lymphoma is identified a systemic evaluation for lymphoma with particular attention to the upper airway is justified.

Isolated Myeloid Sarcoma Presenting in All Four Eyelids

Myeloid sarcoma is an unusual manifestation of acute leukemia. These leukemic tumors have been described in multiple organ systems. Leukemia is almost always present, but may be undiagnosed when the myeloid sarcoma comes to medical attention. We present a clinicopathologic report of a previously healthy young woman with conjunctival myeloid sarcomas of all 4 eyelids without evidence of an underlying hematologic disorder over 15 months' follow-up, despite refusal of consolidation chemotherapy. Isolated, multifocal myeloid sarcoma of the periorbital region is a very rare manifestation of acute leukemia.

Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Lateral Conjunctiva and Anterior Orbit

A 25-year-old woman presented for evaluation of a rapidly enlarging mass of the left bulbar conjunctiva. Debulking biopsy was performed, which led to the diagnosis of myxoid malignant fibrous histiocytoma. The patient underwent left orbital exenteration with clear margins. Histopathology showed involvement of the conjunctiva substantia propria, superior conjunctival fornix, and episclera, as well as extension from the lateral rectus muscle sheath. Immunohistochemical staining was strongly positive for CD68, alpha1-antitrypsin, CD34, and vimentin.

Epibulbar conjunctival fibroma

A nodular, epibulbar mass appearing in an adult woman without antecedent inflammation or injury prompted concern for possible malignancy. Excision was performed, and pathologic examination demonstrated a conjunctival fibroma. The rarity of the fibroma and its clinical similarity to other benign or malignant tumors render its clinical diagnosis elusive.

[Giant cell collagenoma of the bulbar conjunctiva]

PURPOSE/METHODS

To report a rare case of a tumor in a conjunctival location, a giant cell collagenoma. Tissue was stained with hematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff, and Masson's trichromic stain and studied by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS/CONCLUSION

The clinical and histopathologic features of conjunctival giant cell collagenoma are similar to characteristics of the same tumor occurring in other parts of the body. This is the first report of this tumor in the eye.

Measurement of anterior lens growth after acute primary angle-closure glaucoma

CASE REPORT

We report a case of conjunctival Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in a nonimmunocompromised patient. The resected tumour recurred locally. No additional lesion was seen 20 months after the second surgery.

COMMENTS

Before onset of AIDS, few reports described primary conjunctival KS, although it has been described in other immunocompromised disease stages, i.e. systemic KS.

Fibrous histiocytoma of the conjunctiva

PURPOSE

To review the clinical features and course of six patients with fibrous histiocytoma (FH) of the conjunctiva.

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational clinical case series.

METHODS

Chart review of six consecutive patients with unilateral cases of conjunctival FH was conducted. Clinical presentation, treatment, histopathologic condition, and follow-up information were recorded.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 37 years (median, 38 years; range, 12 to 72 years). There were five white patients, one black patient, five male patients, and one female patient. The tumor was present for a mean of three months (median, five months; range, one to 12 months) and was unilateral (one right eye, five left eyes). In all cases, the tumor was a tan, dome-shaped limbal mass in the conjunctival stroma with visible intrinsic vessels. The mean tumor basal dimension was 7 mm (median, 5 mm; range, 4 to 11 mm). Surgical resection was performed in all cases, and histopathologic study demonstrated benign FH in four cases and malignant FH in two cases. Those cases with benign FH showed no recurrence over nine months (median, eight months; range, three to 18 months). One patient with malignant FH showed recurrence and required repeat excision. The other patient with malignant FH was treated with plaque radiotherapy to maintain control. There was no evidence of orbital invasion or remote metastasis in any case over the mean follow-up period of 21 months (median, 10 months; range, three to 80 months).

CONCLUSION

FH is a rare conjunctival tumor that can show benign or malignant features. Complete resection is advised. Malignant FH can demonstrate recurrence that necessitates wide resection and radiotherapy.

Haemangioendothelioma on the conjunctiva of the upper eyelid

A 62-year-old man visited the authors' clinic complaining of a mass on the palpebral conjunctiva of the right upper eyelid. The 2.0 cm x 1.2 cm sized, red and painless mass underwent incision and biopsy for histopathological examination. The mass was confirmed to be Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma characterized by densely packed spindle cells. These cells were positive to vimentin, CD31 and factor VIII-related antigen by immunohistochemical stain. The mass was completely resolved by oral steroid therapy and has not recurred through the presentation. Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma generally occurs in infant and adolescent periods and is characterized by rapid progression and invasion to adjacent tissue. Herein, an unusual case of Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma affecting the conjunctiva of the upper eyelid on a middle-aged man is reported.

Primary mantle cell lymphoma of the conjunctiva: a case report

Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the conjunctiva are uncommon. They are almost exclusively extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphomas/mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphomas. In this study, we report an extremely rare case of conjunctival mantle cell lymphoma in a 78-year-old man, presenting as a unilateral epibulbar mass.

Orbital-conjunctival glomangiomas involving two ocular rectus muscles

PURPOSE

To report two glomangiomas in one orbit, each isolated to a rectus muscle.

DESIGN

Clinicopathologic correlation.

METHODS

A 12-year-old boy developed two separate vascular tumors, near the insertions of the medial rectus and superior rectus muscles, respectively. A biopsy of one tumor was studied by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Histopathology revealed blood vessels surrounded by cuboidal cells characteristic of glomangioma. The cells showed immunoreactivity for smooth muscle actin and vimentin, supporting the diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Glomangioma can involve the rectus muscles in the conjunctiva and orbit, and should be considered in differential diagnosis of vascular tumors in the ocular region.

Multiple myeloma manifesting as a salmon patch conjunctival mass

PURPOSE

We report a 70-year-old man with a salmon patch conjunctival mass diagnosed as multiple myeloma.

DESIGN

Case report.

METHODS

Surgical biopsies of the salmon patch conjunctival mass and bone marrow, as well as hematologic workup for multiple myeloma were performed.

RESULTS

Conjunctival biopsy revealed heavy myeloma cells with eccentric nuclei and basophilic cytoplasm infiltrate in the conjunctival stroma. Bone marrow biopsy and aspirate showed interstitial infiltrated by myeloma cells, which stained monoclonally for immunoglobulin G (IgG)-kappa light chains. Hematologic tests confirmed the diagnosis of multiple myeloma.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple myeloma is one of the causes of a salmon patch conjunctival lesion and may be included in the differential diagnosis.

In vivo confocal microscopy of pigmented conjunctival tumors

PURPOSE

To analyze the appearance of conjunctival pigmented tumors as seen by in vivo confocal microscopy.

METHODS

Twenty-eight pigmented conjunctival tumors including 6 nevi, 13 acquired melanoses, 7 conjunctival melanomas, and 2 extrascleral growths of uveal melanomas were examined by in vivo confocal microscopy using the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRTII)/Rostock Cornea Modul (RCM). Confocal images were analyzed using predefined criteria by an observer masked to final histological diagnosis and a preliminary diagnosis was established. After excision, histology and immunohistochemistry using antibodies against S-100, Melan-A, HMB-45, Ki-67, CD3, and CD68 were performed in all specimens and compared with in vivo confocal images of the same lesions.

RESULTS

Confocal microscopy images confirmed typical histopathological features of conjunctival pigmented tumors. Nest or diffuse collections of medium-sized uniform hyper- or hyperreflective cells in the stroma and stromal cysts lined with a multilayered epithelium were visible in 100% of conjunctival nevi. Small dendritic cells were typically observed in 100% of primary acquired melanoses (PAM) without atypia and in 2 out of 6 nevi. Large networks of hyperreflective dendritic cells were present in 100% of PAM with atypia. Whereas images of PAM without atypia and secondary complexion-associated melanosis showed hyperreflective granules confined to the basal epithelium in 67% of lesions, PAM with atypia presented with hyperreflective granules and patches throughout the epithelium in all cases. Malignant melanomas of the conjunctiva and extrascleral growths of uveal melanomas demonstrated large hyperreflective cells with prominent nuclei and nucleoli. In vivo confocal microscopy showed a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 100% to establish the correct diagnosis of conjunctival melanoma compared with histology.

CONCLUSIONS

High correlations were found between in vivo confocal microscopy using near-infrared laser light and histology in the diagnosis of pigmented conjunctival lesions. In vivo confocal microscopy seems to be a valuable new tool in the differential diagnosis and follow-up of pigmented conjunctival tumors. It does not replace histology, but may assist in performing guided biopsy in tumors suspected clinically and/or with in vivo microscopy. In addition, in vivo confocal microscopy may support the clinical diagnosis of extrascleral involvement in uveal melanoma.

Evaluating the role of human papillomaviruses in conjunctival neoplasia

Mucosal, cutaneous and Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV)-related human papillomaviruses (HPVs) were searched by broad-spectrum PCR in 86 conjunctival neoplasia biopsies and 63 conjunctival non-neoplastic control tissue from Ugandan subjects. Seven different EV-related HPV types, including a putative new HPV, and two mucosal HPVs were detected in 25% (14 out of 56) of HIV-positive, in 10% (three out of 30) of HIV-negative conjunctival neoplasia samples, and rarely (0-1.6%) in control subjects. The absence of high-risk HPVs and the low detection frequency of EV-related HPV types in more advanced tumour stages (10%) raise doubts about their role in conjunctival carcinomas.

Increased Ki-67 proliferative index and absence of P16INK4 in CIN-HPV related pathogenic pathways different from cervical squamous intraepithelial lesion

BACKGROUND/AIM

It is generally assumed that similar pathways are involved in human papillomavirus (HPV) induced pathogenesis of cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) and cancers and a subset of conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasm (CIN)-that the malignancies or pre-cancerous lesions arise through HPV oncoproteins E6 and E7, which disrupt the pathways of p53 and the product of the retinoblastoma (Rb) gene and, in turn, increase the protein product of gene p16INK4 through the mechanism of positive feedback. Several cell cycle molecules are detected to test this hypothesis.

METHODS

Nine cases of CIN and eight non-CIN cases were analysed for the expression of Ki-67, pRb, p53, and p16INK4 via immunohistochemistry. Nine cases of cervical high grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), and 10 cases of cervical low grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) were included for stain control of p16INK4a, and comparison of p16INK4a expression to CIN cases. A nested polymerase chain reaction and a genechip HPV typing were used to detect HPV infection and types in the CIN and non-CIN samples

RESULTS

HPV positivity was demonstrated in all of the CIN lesions but in none of the non-CIN lesions. The Ki-67 proliferative index (Ki-67 PI) was statistically higher in the CIN group than the non-CIN group; however, there were no differences of expression of pRb and p53 between the two groups and no expression of p16INK4 in all cases. All nine cases of HSIL, and seven out of 10 cases of LSIL used for stain control were immunoreactive for p16INK4a. There were statistically significant differences in overexpression of p16INK4a between the CINs and SILs

CONCLUSIONS

The Ki-67 proliferative index may be a sensitive marker for CIN lesions and these results, with significant differences in overexpression of p16INK4a between CINs and SILs, may provide new evidence that HPV related mucosal dysplasia in different anatomical locations may lead to dissimilar molecular pathways.

A case of primary botryoid conjunctival rhabdomyosarcoma

BACKGROUND

Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common childhood primary orbital malignancy, but the occurrence of this tumour in the conjunctiva is rare.

METHODS

A 14-year-old girl presented with a visible case of conjunctival mass in the left eye. The year before, the patient was referred to another hospital for a biopsy of a conjunctival mesenchymal tumour in the same site, which was periodically checked after the excision. We intervened by partially removing the conjunctival mass.

RESULTS

The histopathology revealed a botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy and fractionated radiotherapy. The follow-up after three years revealed that the patient remained clinically tumor-free, with no ocular complication from the radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

It is evident that by not excising the tumour in its entirety it is therefore possible to preserve the underlying rectus muscles and not interfere with ocular motility. Subsequent radiotherapy and chemotherapy helped to destroy any residual tumour. Alternatively, surgical excision of the mass alone could lead to recurrence of the tumour after some months or years.

Sebaceous Gland Tumors of the Eyelids and Conjunctiva in the Muir-Torre Syndrome

PURPOSE

To study the sebaceous tumors of eyelid/conjunctiva associated with Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) and to determine the role of immunohistochemical markers (MSH2, mismatch repair gene) in the diagnosis of patients with MTS.

METHODS

A retrospective, noncomparative case series of 5 patients diagnosed with MTS from our laboratory. We also reviewed all previously reported cases of sebaceous eyelid tumors with a visceral malignancy.

RESULTS

Four of the 5 patients were men, with a mean age of 55 years (range, 41 to 76 years). Four of the 5 patients had gastrointestinal carcinoma. On histopathological examination, 4 of the 5 tumors were classified as sebaceous adenomas that exhibited a distinct lobular pattern with prominent basaloid cells at the periphery of the lobules. One tumor was classified as a well-differentiated sebaceous gland adenocarcinoma. The diagnosis of MTS in all 5 patients was made after the diagnosis of the eyelid lesions. Immunohistochemical stains showed a lack of MSH2 expression in two tumors, which is highly consistent with MTS.

CONCLUSIONS

Muir-Torre syndrome should be considered in patients who develop sebaceous tumors of the ocular adnexa. Immunohistochemistry for MSH2 is a practical initial approach for screening MTS in patients with sebaceous tumors.

Sebaceous gland adenoma of the tarsal conjunctiva in a patient with Muir-Torre syndrome

PURPOSE

To highlight the recognition and diagnosis of Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) in patients with sebaceous tumors of the eyelid/conjunctiva and to determine the role of immunohistochemical markers as a screening test in patients with Muir-Torre syndrome.

DESIGN

Single interventional case report.

METHODS

The clinical and family history was reviewed from the records of a 41-year-old man who had a sebaceous gland adenoma of the tarsal conjunctiva of the left upper eyelid. The lesion was completely excised and submitted for histopathologic examination. Immunohistochemical stains using an antibody to MSH2 were performed on the paraffin-embedded sections of the tumor.

RESULTS

Histopathologic examination of the tumor showed a lobular pattern with basaloid cells at the periphery of the lobules with central areas of sebaceous differentiation. Immunohistochemical stains showed a lack of MSH2 expression in the tumor, which is highly consistent with MTS.

CONCLUSIONS

Muir-Torre syndrome should be considered in patients initially seen with sebaceous tumors of the eyelid. Immunohistochemistry for MSH2 is a practical initial approach to screen for MTS in patients with sebaceous tumors.

Immunophenotype of conjunctival melanomas: comparisons with uveal and cutaneous melanomas

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the immunophenotypic expression pattern of conjunctival melanomas, with the use of standard melanoma markers as well as microphthalmia transcription factor and p75 neurotrophin receptor.

DESIGN

Eleven conjunctival melanomas, including 1 caruncular melanoma, were immunolabeled with a panel of antibodies that included S100, tyrosinase, melan-A, HMB-45 and HMB-50 combination, microphthalmia transcription factor, and p75 neurotrophin receptor. The results were tabulated on the basis of intensity and pervasiveness of labeling and compared with a previous study of uveal melanomas.

RESULTS

Immunolabeling with S100 was at significantly higher levels in conjunctival melanomas than in uveal melanomas. Tyrosinase, HMB-45 and HMB-50 combination, melan-A, and microphthalmia transcription factor were expressed at high levels in conjunctival melanomas, whereas p75 neurotrophin receptor was not expressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Melanomas of the conjunctiva, including the caruncle, expressed S100, tyrosinase, melan-A, HMB-45 and HMB-50 combination, and microphthalmia transcription factor at high levels, suggesting that these are good markers for this melanoma subtype. Expression of S100 was significantly higher in conjunctival melanomas than in uveal melanomas. The immunophenotypic pattern of conjunctival melanomas is most similar to the epithelioid subtype of cutaneous melanomas.

Ocular adnexal lymphomas: five case presentations and a review of the literature

The ocular adnexal lymphomas represent the malignant end of the spectrum of lymphoproliferative lesions that occur in these locations. The Revised European and American Lymphoma (REAL) Classification and the new World Health Organization Classification of Tumors of Hemopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues are the most suitable for subdividing the ocular adnexal lymphomas, whereby the extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma represents the most common lymphoma subtype. This review is based on five cases subtyped according to the above classifications-three "typical" lymphomas (an extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma, a diffuse large cell B-cell lymphoma arising from an extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma, and a follicular lymphoma) and two "atypical" lymphomas (a non-endemic Burkitt lymphoma in an immune competent elderly patient, and a primary Hodgkin lymphoma of the eyelid) of the ocular adnexa. Management of patients with ocular adnexal lymphomas includes a thorough systemic medical examination to establish the clinical stage of the disease. The majority of patients with ocular adnexal lymphoma have stage IE disease. Current recommended therapy in stage IE tumors is radiotherapy, while disseminated disease is treated with chemotherapy. Despite usually demonstrating an indolent course, extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphomas are renowned for recurrence in extranodal sites, including other ocular adnexal sites. Long-term follow-up with 6-month examinations are therefore recommended. Major prognostic criteria for the ocular adnexal lymphomas include anatomic location of the tumor; stage of disease at first presentation; lymphoma subtype as determined using the REAL classification; immunohistochemical markers determining factors such as tumor growth rate; and the serum lactate dehydrogenase level.

Caruncle tumor as the first sign of metastatic lung carcinoma

PURPOSE

Report of a neuroendocrine carcinoma of the caruncle as the first sign of a metastatic lung carcinoma.

DESIGN

Interventional case report.

METHODS

Excision of a rapidly growing caruncular tumor in a 76-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer.

RESULTS

Pathology revealed a large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, consistent with metastatic lung carcinoma. Computerized tomography of chest, abdomen, and a bone scan disclosed signs of malignancy in the lungs, liver, and bones, originally considered as metastatic breast cancer. However, this diagnosis was excluded on the basis of histopathological findings and clonality analysis. A primary neuroendocrine (Merkel cell) carcinoma was ruled out on morphologic and immunohistochemical grounds.

CONCLUSION

We present a unique case of a metastatic large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the caruncle.

Primary intraepithelial sebaceous gland carcinoma of the palpebral conjunctiva

Sebaceous gland carcinoma usually arises from meibomian or Zeis glands deep within the eyelid, but it can rarely arise within the conjunctival epithelium without a deep component. We describe a woman with a history of chronic blepharoconjunctivitis unresponsive to topical medications. Examination disclosed confluent papillary hypertrophy of the upper palpebral conjunctiva and deposits of white flaky material. Tarsoconjunctival punch biopsy revealed intraepithelial sebaceous gland carcinoma. Management consisted of frozen section-controlled complete tumor excision with removal of the entire posterior lamella of the right upper eyelid, cryotherapy to the margins, and reconstruction. Histopathologic analysis confirmed primary sebaceous gland carcinoma localized to the conjunctival epithelium without involvement of underlying meibomian or Zeis glands or the caruncle. Patients with unexplained chronic unilateral blepharoconjunctivitis or papillary hypertrophy of the palpebral conjunctiva should be considered for biopsy to rule out neoplasia, even when there is no sign of an underlying eyelid mass.

Immunohistochemical diagnosis of malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva and uvea: comparison of the novel antibody against melan-A with S100 protein and HMB-45

A novel antibody A103, which recognizes melan-A/MART-1, has been found to be more sensitive than the antibody HMB-45, which recognizes gp100, in melanocytic lesions of the skin and might therefore also be useful in the diagnosis of uveal and conjunctival melanocytic lesions. In this study we compared the staining characteristics of anti-melan-A, anti-S100 protein and HMB-45 in 13 conjunctival, 11 iris and 37 ciliary and choroidal malignant melanomas. The ciliary and choroidal melanomas comprised 13 spindle cell (10 spindle B and three spindle A), 14 mixed cell and 10 epithelioid cell tumours. In the conjunctival melanomas the diagnostic sensitivity was 100% for anti-S100 and anti-melan-A and 85% for HMB-45. In the iris melanomas the sensitivity was 100% for anti-S100 and anti-melan-A and 55% for HMB-45. A high staining intensity of anti-melan-A was particularly noticed in iris melanomas. In the choroidal malignant melanomas, the spindle cell and mixed cell types showed a sensitivity of only 69-79% with all three antibodies. In the epithelioid cell type the sensitivity was 80% for anti-S100 and 100% for HMB-45 and anti-melan-A. In conclusion, anti-melan-A was found to be a useful addition to antibody panels for ocular melanocytic lesions. Anti-melan-A has a higher sensitivity than HMB-45 in conjunctival and iris melanomas, but the sensitivity is similar to HMB-45 in choroidal melanomas. Anti-melan-A stains in a very similar pattern to anti-S100, but the staining intensity of anti-melan-A is higher than that of anti-S100 in iris melanoma.

Differential expression of nm23 H-1 protein in conjunctival melanoma and potential precursor lesions

Loss of nm23 gene expression is believed to enhance metastatic spread in diverse human tumors, including skin melanoma. The purpose of this work was to determine the pattern and prognostic relevance of nm23 protein immunoexpression in conjunctival melanoma and potential precursor lesion. Formaldehyde-fixed, paraffin-embedded conjunctival specimens comprising 85 melanocytic lesions (nevi, primary aquired melanosis with and without atypia and primary and locally recurrent malignant melanomas) from 73 patients were used. Sections from all specimens were examined by light microscopy to assess diverse prognostic parameters. Additional sections were then immunostained for nm23 H-1 protein and the immunoreactivity was assessed semi-quantitatively. Survival data for all patients were retrieved from the National Causes of Death Registry of Sweden.Nm23 H-1 protein was differentially expressed in conjunctival melanocytic lesions, however loss of immunoexpression was not more common in melanocytic lesions asociated with a high risk of malignant transformation. Also, primary and recurrent conjunctival melanomas showed an essentially similar nm23 expression pattern and we could not associate the pattern of nm23 immunoexpression with an increased risk for malignant transformation or locally recurrent disease. While there was a tentative separation between cause-specific survival curves after excision for low and high nm23 expression conjunctival melanoma, there was no statistically significant association with metastatic death of patients. However, loss of nm23 protein immunoexpression may still be of some importance as a marker for prognosis in conjunctival melanoma because the present study could only detect large differences in survival. Our results suggest that any potential prognostic value of nm23 immunoexpression would be independent of other markers, underlining the importance of further studies.

Immunohistochemical distinction of ocular sebaceous carcinoma from basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of sebaceous carcinoma of the periorbital region is often delayed. Clinically, this lesion can mimic several inflammatory disorders. Histopathologically, it can mimic either squamous cell or basal cell carcinoma.

OBJECTIVE

To identify an immunohistochemical approach to assist in the diagnosis of periorbital sebaceous carcinoma.

METHOD

The immunohistochemical profiles of several cases of periorbital sebaceous, basal cell, and squamous cell carcinoma were examined.

RESULTS

Although at least focal epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) staining can effectively distinguish sebaceous carcinoma (10 of 11 were positive) from basal cell carcinoma (1 of 16 were positive), most squamous cell carcinomas examined were also focally EMA positive (11 of 14). However, Cam 5.2 reactivity was seen in most sebaceous carcinomas (8 of 11) but no squamous cell carcinomas (0 of 14). In addition, at least focal BRST-1 reactivity was also seen in most sebaceous carcinomas (7 of 11) but no basal cell carcinomas (0 of 16).

CONCLUSIONS

Periorbital sebaceous, basal cell, and squamous cell carcinomas have different immunohistochemical staining profiles; a panel of commonly available antibodies, including anti-EMA, BRST-1, and Cam 5.2, may help distinguish these diseases from each other when that distinction cannot be clearly made by light microscopy alone.

Leiomyoma of the caruncle

A 43-year-old Caucasian male, presented with a swelling of the left caruncle which had persisted for more than ten years. Clinical examination showed a small, smooth, not painful 2x2x2 mm tumor located at the caruncle. There were no signs of orbital involvement. Histologically, the tumor was composed of interlacing fascicles of spindle-shaped cells with bright eosinophilic cytoplasm and cigar-shaped nuclei. Mitotic activity was not observed and the tumor showed no atypia or pleomorphism. The tumor cells reacted with the reticulum stain and Masson trichrome. Immunohistochemically, the tumor cells were positive for vimentin, SMA, MSA, CD34, laminin and a scattered number for S-100. The tumor was classified as a leiomyoma of the caruncle and is the first described in this localisation. The origin of the tumor is discussed.

Conjunctival melanoma in the black population

Melanoma of the conjunctiva is a rare, unilateral malignancy primarily affecting middle-aged whites; the annual average age-adjusted incidence rate is 0.012 per 100,000 population. Although conjunctival melanoma in the black population is extremely rare, cases have been reported. Melanoma of skin in blacks has a predilection for nonsun-exposed, nonpigmented sites such as mucous membranes, palms, and soles. Primary acquired melanosis may lead to the development of melanoma even in blacks. Primary acquired melanosis in the black population may be difficult to differentiate from racial melanosis clinically and histopathologically. Early diagnosis through awareness and education can help improve the survival of black patients with conjunctival melanoma.

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.

Conjunctival amelanotic malignant melanoma arising in primary acquired melanosis sine pigmento

BACKGROUND

The authors describe an amelanotic malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva in association with primary acquired melanosis (PAM) sine pigmento, and highlight the clinical and pathologic features of this rare entity.

METHODS

Histopathologic and immunohistochemical studies were performed on a conjunctival tumor in a 54-year-old white woman.

STUDY DESIGN

Case report.

RESULTS

Histopathologic examination revealed an invasive amelanotic melanoma of the conjunctiva, with anterior orbital extension arising from intraepithelial dysplastic melanocytes that lacked melanin pigment (PAM sine pigmento). Both the malignant melanoma cells and the intraepithelial dysplastic melanocytes in the areas of PAM exhibited S-100 and HMB-45 positivity. The patient underwent an orbital exenteration that disclosed tumor within the anterior orbit inferiorly.

CONCLUSIONS

Amelanotic invasive malignant melanoma can arise in association with PAM sine pigmento, as seen in our patient who had orbital invasion necessitating exenteration. This aggressive form of conjunctival melanoma is often associated with a poor prognosis and risk of metastatic disease. Absence of conjunctival pigmentation in PAM sine pigmento prevents early clinical detection of this variant of PAM. This lack of pigmentation also makes clinical diagnosis virtually impossible, and diagnosis can only be established histopathologically. Awareness of this nonpigmented variety of PAM is crucial for early recognition and appropriate management of the associated melanoma.

Epibulbar granular cell tumor. Report of a case and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

The granular cell tumor (GCT) is a common, usually benign, neoplasm of uncertain histogenesis that may affect any organ in the body. It occurs rarely in ophthalmic sites, where orbital location is most frequent. The purpose of this report is to describe a unique case of an epibulbar, subconjunctival GCT in a child.

METHOD

Histopathologic examination of the excised tumor included standard and immunohistochemical staining of formaldehyde-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue.

RESULTS

Histopathologic study showed the characteristic morphology of GCT. Immunohistochemistry was strongly positive for vimentin, weakly and partly positive for neuron-specific enolase, and negative for S-100 and HAM-56.

CONCLUSIONS

Granular cell tumor must be added to the differential diagnosis of epibulbar masses. Immunohistochemistry of the tumor in this case suggests an uncommitted mesenchymal cell origin.

Histopathologic findings and frequency of clonality detected by the polymerase chain reaction in ocular adnexal lymphoproliferative lesions

We report the reclassification according to recently described histologic categories of 48 patients with ocular adnexal lymphoproliferative lesions with long-term follow-up (mean, 8.1 yr). We used available formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, and frozen tissues to assess the frequency of immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement detectable by polymerase chain reaction in these lesions. We reviewed patient records, obtained follow-up data, and examined hematoxylin- and eosin-stained slides. DNA extracted from tissues was amplified with consensus V- and J-region primers to detect immunoglobulin heavy chain gene rearrangement. We examined 28 orbital, 10 lacrimal, and 10 conjunctival lesions, of which 2 lesions were lymphoid hyperplasias, 3 were indeterminate, and 43 were lymphomas. Of the 44 patients with follow-up, systemic lymphoma developed in 24 (55%), of whom 11 died of the disease, and 6 are alive with disease. Thirty-one patients had sufficient DNA for polymerase chain reaction analysis; 9 specimens were nonclonal, 21 were clonal, and 1 failed to amplify. The nonclonal lesions included one hyperplasia, one indeterminate lesion, and seven lymphomas; two of these patients died of the disease, and one is alive with disease. The clonal lesions included 1 indeterminate lesion and 20 lymphomas. Systemic lymphomas developed in 16 patients; 8 died of the disease, and 4 are alive with disease. Of the lesions histologically classified as lymphoma, 74% were clonal. We conclude that most ocular adnexal lymphoproliferative lesions can be histologically classified as lymphomas, that systemic lymphoma will develop in at least 50% of these patients if they are followed for sufficient time, and that most lesions classified as lymphomas will be clonal using polymerase chain reaction techniques. Lack of amplification using a consensus primer strategy may account for the inability to detect clonality by polymerase chain reaction in some histologically identified lymphomas.