Abstract
PURPOSE: The term melanocytoma was recently proposed for intermediate-stage melanocytic lesions with specific histopathologic and molecular genetic features. Prior studies have demonstrated a heightened potential for these intermediate lesions to spread to regional lymph nodes, with decreased likelihood for distant spread, when compared to melanomas. OBSERVATIONS: Herein we present a case of a 28-year-old male who presented with a recurrent right lower eyelid margin combined cutaneous and palpebral conjunctival pigmented lesion, ultimately classified as a melanocytoma, to highlight this new nomenclature, characteristic histopathologic and genetic findings, and prognostic implications. CONCLUSIONS: Ophthalmologists should be aware of this new cutaneous histopathologic classification system and apply to the periorbital region to improve melanocytic lesion management and surveillance.