INVASIVE SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA OF THE CONJUNCTIVA

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most frequently encountered malignant tumor of the conjunctiva, more frequent than basal cell carcinoma at this site [1]. Red eye and ocular irritation are the most common presenting symptoms [2]. It is associated with sun exposure and often occurs in HIV positive individuals [3]. A high proportion of the deeply invasive conjunctival carcinoma has adenosquamous features [4]. Squamous papillomas and conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia may be associated with the human papilloma viruses type 16 and 18 [5]. Radical surgery is necessary in these cases [6].