Conjunctival nevus refers to benign mole formations, usually brown or black in color, that appear on the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Similar to moles seen on the skin, these formations can cause both cosmetic concerns and health worries when noticed on the surface of the eye. Although these lesions are often harmless, in rare cases, they carry a risk of turning into malignant tumors. For this reason, regular monitoring of conjunctival nevi is of great importance.
These moles that appear on the surface of the eye may be congenital, or they may develop during adolescence or young adulthood. Conjunctival nevi can be located in different regions of the eye, and they are most commonly seen in areas such as the corneal margin, limbus region, palpebral conjunctiva, and fornix.
Op. Dr. Diclehan states that conjunctival nevi are mostly benign but need careful evaluation. This is because some nevi may grow, change color, or develop an irregular appearance over time. These changes could be early signs of malignant transformation, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.
Conjunctival nevus usually does not cause significant symptoms. Most patients visit an eye specialist due to noticing a dark spot on the surface of the eye for cosmetic reasons. However, in some cases, the following symptoms may occur
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that changes such as color variation, rapid growth, or irregular borders should not be ignored. These findings could be early indicators of serious conditions such as malignant melanoma.
Although the exact cause of conjunctival nevi is not fully known, genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. People with a tendency to develop moles on the skin are more likely to have mole formations on the eye surface as well.
Conjunctival nevi can present in different types, and each type may have different clinical significance.
Subepithelial Nevus
These nevi are located beneath the conjunctival epithelium, usually flat and light brown in color.
Complex Nevus
These involve both the subepithelial area and the stroma. They are more prominent and may be slightly raised.
Epithelial Nevus
These result from pigment accumulation within the conjunctival epithelium. They are more superficial and are cosmetically more noticeable.
Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that accurate classification of the nevus type is important for proper follow-up and treatment planning.
Diagnosing conjunctival nevus is generally straightforward during an eye examination. However, certain advanced diagnostic methods may also be used for proper evaluation:
The primary factor in treating conjunctival nevus is determining whether the lesion is benign or has malignant potential. Most of the time, regular monitoring is recommended instead of immediate treatment. However, if there are risk factors, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Regular Monitoring
Since nevi are generally harmless, regular check-ups are often sufficient. An examination every six to twelve months helps detect potential changes early.
Surgical Excision
If the nevus grows rapidly, changes color, develops irregular borders, or causes cosmetic concerns for the patient, surgical removal is recommended.
Laser Treatment
For some superficial and small nevi, laser treatment may provide better cosmetic results.
Cosmetic Approaches
If the nevus is harmless but poses cosmetic concerns, aesthetic procedures can also be considered.
Op. Dr. Diclehan notes that complete removal of the lesion during surgical procedures is important; otherwise, there is a risk of recurrence.
Although most conjunctival nevi are benign, some may eventually transform into malignant tumors known as conjunctival melanoma. Therefore, careful monitoring of nevi is essential. Warning signs include
In such cases, immediate consultation with an eye specialist and further diagnostic testing are necessary.
In children, conjunctival nevi are usually congenital and benign in nature. However, due to hormonal changes during growth, they may undergo noticeable changes. Regular monitoring during childhood ensures that any potential risks are detected early.
Although conjunctival nevi often pose no serious health risks, they can negatively affect individuals from a psychological standpoint, especially for cosmetic reasons. Having a visible spot on the eye surface may lead to reduced self-confidence. Therefore, while creating a treatment plan, psychological factors should be considered alongside medical needs.
Although it is not possible to completely prevent the formation of conjunctival nevi, the following measures can help reduce risks:
While conjunctival nevi are generally harmless, they may sometimes carry serious risks. Therefore, any spot or mole noticed on the eye surface should always be evaluated by an eye specialist. Early diagnosis and regular follow-up are crucial in preventing potential complications.
Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights that eye health directly affects quality of life and stresses the importance of addressing conjunctival nevi seriously. Even a small spot in the eye should never be ignored, as early intervention can help prevent more severe problems in the future.
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