Orbital Exenterations and Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Conjunctiva at Sekuru Kaguvi Eye Unit, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The association of squamous cell carcinomas of the conjunctiva and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is well documented in the literature.1'3 Early detection and treatment of patients with SCCA of the conjunctiva is of utmost importance in terms of curing the disease and minimizing the problems associated with managing advanced disease. Inadequate ophthalmic services in Zimbabwe coupled with harsh socio-economic circumstances contribute to late presentation of patients with SCCA of the conjunctiva, thus necessitating the use of orbital exenteration as the most appropriate management option. Orbital exenteration is a surgical procedure involving the removal of all orbital contents including eyelids up to the brow leaving the bony walls. The procedure is usually recommended for patients with advanced orbital malignancies. It facilitates the delivery of both radiotherapy and chemotherapy,4 offers the patient a chance of complete recovery from the disease and also improves the quality life for the patient. The procedure is very rare among developed countries and was fairly uncommon in our department during the eighties.