Squamous Papilloma

Clinical Features

• Symptoms:
  • May be asymptomatic or associated with foreign body sensation, itching, irritation, mucoid discharge, tearing and even decreased vision
  • When they become large enough, the mass effect of the lesions may prevent proper lid apposition or closure
• Signs:
  • Can be pedunculated or sessile
  • Typically appear as strawberry red lesions
  • The geometric evenly spaced vessel arrangement throughout the lesions can be seen beneath the transparent, glistening surface
  • May be found anywhere on the conjunctiva as single or multiple lesions
  • Multiple pedunculated papillomas most commonly develop in children; they are thought to be caused by Human papillomavirus infection
  • Have no potential of malignant degeneration
  • Recurrence is frequent, especially in children.

Management

• No treatment recommended for asymptomatic lesions because of the high rate of spontaneous resolution.
• Simple excision including an area of healthy surrounding conjunctiva with cryotherapy to the base of the excision can give an effective cure.
• Medical therapy including interferon has been successful in treating recurrent lesions.
• CO2 laser for vaporization therapy may be used.