[Clinical importance of inclusion cysts of nevi in bulbar conjunctiva].

We investigated 30 cases of nevi in bulbar conjunctiva histopathologically from 1980 to 1992. The patients' ages were between 5 and 85 years old (mean, 21 years). Investigated parameters of the tumors were the location, growth pattern, and the presence of inclusion cysts, melanin granules, goblet cells, and feeding vessels. Of 30 cases, 26 cases (87%) had inclusion cysts which were characteristic findings of conjunctival nevi. The mucous secretion from goblet cells may play an important role in the synthesis of inclusion cysts, but goblet cells were not found in 9 cases. This finding suggests that other secretory cells may be present. Four cases without inclusion cysts consisted of flat tumors. From this finding, the presence of inclusion cysts may be related to the growth of tumors. We conclude that the growth of the pigmented conjunctival tumors with inclusion cysts suggests a benign growth pattern. A periodical follow-up study or biopsy should be performed, if inclusion cysts are not found.