Infectious etiologies of conjunctival tumors

Introduction: Infectious agents have been associated with a variety of conjunctival tumors, including lymphoma, ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN), papilloma, and Kaposi sarcoma. Areas covered: We discuss the infectious etiologies of certain conjunctival tumors including conjunctival lymphoma (Chlamydia spp. Helicobacter pylori, Epstein-Barr virus, hepatitis C virus), OSSN (human papillomavirus, human immunodeficiency virus), papilloma (human papilloma virus), and Kaposi sarcoma (Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus). Their respective oncogenic mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment options are reviewed. Expert opinion: It is important for the clinician to recognize when tumors of the conjunctiva may be infection-associated. A detailed history and exam are the most important first step in diagnosis; this may be supplemented by tools such as high-resolution optical coherence tomography. For some tumors, the specific causative agent may influence treatment options and outcomes. For others, data suggests the infectious agent does not influence treatment or outcomes, but it is important nonetheless to be aware as further research on these tumors continues. Additionally, there is exciting research investigating novel and minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment options for conjunctival tumors, including treatments that target the infectious agent directly.