Topical Mitomycin C Chemotherapy After Surgical Resection of Conjunctival Amelanotic Melanoma in a Dog.

Topical MMC adjuvant therapy prevented recurrence of incompletely excised conjunctival melanoma in this dog.

This case report describes the successful management of a conjunctival amelanotic melanoma in a 15-year-old Shih Tzu using adjuvant topical mitomycin C (MMC) therapy following incomplete surgical resection. The dog presented with a conjunctival mass affecting the bulbar conjunctiva and third eyelid of the right eye. Staging confirmed localized disease without systemic metastases. After the owner declined exenteration, the mass was surgically debulked. Histopathology confirmed malignant amelanotic melanoma with incomplete surgical margins. Adjuvant treatment consisted of topical 0.04% MMC ophthalmic solution administered four times daily for one month. Side effects included transient superficial corneal epithelial defects and conjunctival hyperemia that resolved post-treatment, and long-term reduced tear production managed with cyclosporine. No clinical evidence of local recurrence was observed during 14-month follow-up. The authors suggest topical MMC may be a potential globe-preserving adjuvant treatment for incompletely excised conjunctival melanomas, though further studies are needed to establish efficacy and safety profiles.

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