Malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva with intraocular extension

Intraocular extension of a malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva is a rare entity. A 75-year-old woman underwent repeated surgery after receiving the diagnosis of a multilocular recurrent malignant melanoma arising from a pri mary acquired melanosis. Treatment included 2 lamellar sclerokeratectomies and percutaneous radiotherapy. Five years after initial surgery, intraocula r extension of the melanoma was observed, and enucleation was performed. Fi ndings from histopathological examination revealed a malignant melanoma occ upying part of the ciliary body, the trabecular meshwork, and the iris. Eye s with recurrent malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva should be carefully monitored for intraocular extension. Deep excision of conjunctival melanoma , including lamellar sclerokeratectomy, may abolish the natural barrier aga inst intraocular extension of malignant melanomas of the conjunctiva.