Disease focus
Conjunctival Melanoma
A rare melanoma that arises on the surface of the eye, requiring specialist pathology and careful long-term management.
Conjunctival melanoma is a rare cancer arising from the pigment-producing cells of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Although uncommon, it can recur locally and, in some cases, spread to regional lymph nodes and beyond, so accurate diagnosis and vigilant follow-up are essential.
Diagnosis and pathology
Precise histopathological assessment is central to managing conjunctival melanoma, distinguishing invasive disease from its pre-invasive form (primary acquired melanosis with atypia / conjunctival melanoma in situ). Our pathology expertise supports diagnosis, staging and treatment planning for patients referred to Liverpool.
Our research
The group studies the molecular and genetic features of conjunctival melanoma to better understand its behaviour, identify markers of risk, and inform more effective, eye-sparing treatment strategies.