Conjunctival melanoma in the black population.

Melanoma of the conjunctiva is a rare, unilateral malignancy primarily affecting middle-aged whites; the annual average age-adjusted incidence rate is 0.012 per 100,000 population. Although conjunctival melanoma in the black population is extremely rare, cases have been reported. Melanoma of skin in blacks has a predilection for nonsun-exposed, nonpigmented sites such as mucous membranes, palms, and soles. Primary acquired melanosis may lead to the development of melanoma even in blacks. Primary acquired melanosis in the black population may be difficult to differentiate from racial melanosis clinically and histopathologically. Early diagnosis through awareness and education can help improve the survival of black patients with conjunctival melanoma.