Giant sarcoid tumor of the iris and ciliary body.

PURPOSE: To report the occurrence of a giant iridociliary sarcoid tumor.

METHODS

The patient was evaluated by medical history, ophthalmoscopic examination (including photography and ultrasonography) as well as systemic, hematologic, and radiographic examinations. Tumor biopsies allowed for cytopathologic, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical analysis.

RESULTS

The 39-year-old black male was found to have a right iris and ciliary body tumor. Ultrasonography revealed a 10 x 12-mm base, 5.6-mm height, low internal reflectivity, and vitreous debris. Radiographic imaging revealed mediastinal and bilateral hilar lymphadenopathy. A purified protein derivative (PPD) and a hematologic survey were negative. Pathology evaluations of the surgical specimens revealed features of non-caseating granulomata consistent with sarcoidosis. A combination of topical and systemic steroid therapy was locally curative.

CONCLUSIONS

We describe a giant iridociliary sarcoid tumor in a patient with no lacrimal gland enlargement, conjunctival nodules, or skin lesions. A biopsy was required to establish the diagnosis.