Choroidal nevus

Clipping 3

Blue eye featuring a Nevus in the Iris

Macular Soft Drusen

Mnemonic to Help Differentiate Between Melanomas and Nevi

File:Orangepigmentation.nochange.png

Orangepigmentation.nochange

Choroidal nevus is a benign melanocytic lesion located in the choroid, a layer of the eye situated between the retina and the sclera. These lesions are the ocular equivalent of moles found on the skin and are generally flat or slightly elevated, pigmented or non-pigmented. Choroidal nevi are common and often discovered incidentally during a routine eye examination. They are usually asymptomatic but can sometimes lead to visual complications if they are located in the macular area or if they undergo changes leading to choroidal melanoma, a malignant condition.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a choroidal nevus typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including ophthalmoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the nevus. Advanced imaging techniques such as ultrasound, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) can provide additional information about the lesion's size, thickness, and surface characteristics, helping to differentiate benign nevi from malignant melanomas.

Risk Factors and Characteristics

Several features may increase the risk of a choroidal nevus transforming into a melanoma. These include an increase in size, the presence of orange pigment, subretinal fluid, symptoms such as visual distortion, and the location near the optic disc. The mnemonic "To Find Small Ocular Melanoma Using Helpful Hints Daily" (TFSOM-UHHD) is often used to remember these risk factors.

Management

Management of a choroidal nevus involves regular monitoring to detect any changes in size or appearance, which could indicate malignant transformation. This typically includes periodic eye examinations and imaging tests. In cases where the nevus shows signs of becoming a melanoma, treatment options may include laser therapy, radiation therapy, or, in rare cases, enucleation of the eye.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with a choroidal nevus is generally good, as the majority of these lesions do not transform into melanoma. However, regular follow-up is essential to ensure early detection and treatment of any potential malignancy.

Resources

Latest articles - Choroidal nevus

• Most recent articles
• Ongoing trials

Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Choroidal nevus for any updates.

‎