A Classification of Limbal Epitheliomas

Abstract
Opinion differs on the histology and treatment of conjunctival neoplasms of the limbal epithelium. Attention has recently been called to this situation by Winter, who has proposed that all such lesions be grouped together and called precancerous epithelioma of the limbus.1 In 1942, McGavic noted the similarity between the so-called Bowen's skin lesions and the epidermalizing lesions of the cornea and conjunctiva.2 He proposed that the term Bowen's disease be applied to lesions occurring on the conjunctiva and cornea. Since that time, numerous reports of this condition have appeared in the literature.3-6 The disease has been called precancerous, and yet no studies have shown actual malignant change in a recurrent lesion. Metastasis, however, has been reported in some cases.7 Zimmerman, in a recent symposium on neoplasms,8 has stated that this diagnosis should not be considered synonymous with carcinoma-insitu although many authors have done so. The