Conjunctival Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Overview
Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare cancer arising from the epithelial cells of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inner eyelids. It is the most common malignant tumor of the ocular surface.
Symptoms
- Red or pink elevated lesion on the eye surface
- Irritation, tearing, or foreign body sensation
- Blurred vision (if lesion invades the cornea)
- Visible mass near the limbus (junction of cornea and sclera)
Causes & Risk Factors
- Sun (UV) exposure
- Older age
- Light skin and eye color
- Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially type 16
- HIV infection or immunosuppression
Diagnosis
- Slit-lamp eye examination
- Biopsy of the lesion (excisional or incisional)
- Imaging (ultrasound biomicroscopy, orbital MRI if invasion suspected)
- HPV testing (optional)
Treatment Options
- Surgical excision with “no-touch” technique
- Cryotherapy to margins to reduce recurrence
- Topical chemotherapy (mitomycin C, 5-FU, or interferon alpha-2b)
- Radiation therapy for advanced or recurrent disease
Prognosis
- Most conjunctival SCCs are low-grade and treatable
- Recurrence rate varies (5–30%)
- Rarely, may invade the orbit or metastasize
- Close follow-up needed for early detection of recurrence
Living with this Cancer Type
- Regular ophthalmic follow-up and visual monitoring
- Protective eyewear to limit UV exposure
- Adherence to topical treatment regimens
- Emotional support if vision affected
Prevention & Screening
- UV-blocking sunglasses
- Avoid excessive sun exposure
- Monitor eye changes, especially in high-risk individuals
FAQs
Q: Is conjunctival SCC dangerous?
A: Usually not life-threatening, but can cause significant eye damage if untreated.
Q: Can it come back after treatment?
A: Yes. Recurrence is possible, hence the need for long-term monitoring.
Q: Is it contagious or linked to infections?
A: Not contagious, but HPV and HIV can increase risk.
Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
- Ocular Surface Oncology Group
- ClinicalTrials.gov
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