Nonpigmented conjunctival tumors constitute a broad, spectrum of ocular conditions, spanning benign to malignant, entities.1 Diagnosis of these tumors often hinges, on their clinical characteristics, and in many instances,, cytologic or histopathologic evaluation becomes indispensable, (see Chapters 5 and 6).2 The management, approach frequently depends on both the diagnosis and, the extent of invasion., While most conjunctival tumors have epithelial or melanocytic, origins, they also originate from vascular,, fibrous, neural, histiocytic, myogenic, myxoid, lipomatous,, and lymphoid components (Mind map 38-1). The, most commonly diagnosed malignant conjunctival cancers, are squamous carcinoma, malignant melanoma, and, lymphoma (Fig. 38-1)., Further, conjunctival tumors are also classified into, 3 categories: benign, premalignant, and malignant., It is noteworthy that the 8th edition of the AJCC Cancer, Staging System discourages the use of premalignant, classifications for both melanocytic and squamous, intraepithelial neoplasia, now classified as stage Tis (in, situ, see Chapter 8).3 Such complexities necessitate a, thorough and thoughtful chapter dedicated to the diagnosis, and management of nonpigmented conjunctival, tumors.
