Case #6: Giant Conjunctival Inclusion Cysts

By Paul T. Finger, MD

History

A digital slit-lamp photograph of a pigmented conjunctival tumor in the superonasal quadrant. The anterior, superior, inferior, and posterior margins are visible. The episcleral margin is obscured by the tumor.
A digital slit-lamp photograph of a pigmented conjunctival tumor in the superonasal quadrant. The anterior, superior, inferior, and posterior margins are visible. The episcleral margin is obscured by the tumor.

Two subconjunctival masses appearing 45 (Case 1) and 7 (Case 2) years after surgery.

Impression

Giant Conjuctival Inclusion Cysts

Comment

Conjunctival cysts typically cause cosmetic defects and Case 1, prevented proper eyelid closure. Since most are excised, high frequency ultrasound can help define the tumors extent. In Case 2, it differentiated between a solid and cystic pigmented conjunctival tumor.

Case 1: High-frequency ultrasound revealed that the lateral rectus muscle was not incarcerated within the tumor and defined the posterior tumor margin. The sclera was found to be intact. This was expected, but not known by slit-lamp examination. These findings were helpful for pre-operative planning.

A digital slit-lamp photograph of a conjunctival cyst overlying the insertion of the lateral rectus muscle. The anterior, superior and inferior margins are clearly visible. The posterior and episcleral margins are not visible. There is also a question as to the involvement of the lateral rectus muscle.
A digital slit-lamp photograph of a conjunctival cyst overlying the insertion of the lateral rectus muscle. The anterior, superior and inferior margins are clearly visible. The posterior and episcleral margins are not visible. There is also a question as to the involvement of the lateral rectus muscle.

Case 2: This tumor was more ominous looking. It was cystic, pigmented and close to the lacrimal gland. Again, high-frequency ultrasound was used to delineate the tumor’s edges, confirm scleral integrity, and that it was a cyst.

These cases were presented to aid in your continued care of patients with conjunctival cysts. Next time you plan excision of a large conjunctival cyst, you may want to consider evaluating it with a high-frequency ultrasound.

Related Links

Patient Stories

"Very well treated by Dr. Finger. He explained everything I needed to know about my issue with detail and attention, putting me at ease and giving me confidence to handle this problem for the rest of my life.”
N.N.

Read More

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

Go to Appointment Form

CONNECT AND SHARE