Ocular Melanoma

Ocular Melanoma is a rare form of cancer that occurs in the eye. It is the most common type of eye cancer in adults, but it still represents a small fraction of all melanomas. Ocular melanoma can arise from various parts of the eye, including the iris, the ciliary body, and most commonly, the choroid, a layer of blood vessels and connective tissue between the sclera and the retina. This condition is also known as uveal melanoma, choroidal melanoma, or intraocular melanoma, depending on its specific location within the eye.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of ocular melanoma is not well understood. However, several risk factors have been identified, including light eye color (blue or green eyes), Caucasian ethnicity, certain genetic mutations, overexposure to sunlight or UV light, and having atypical mole syndrome or dysplastic nevus syndrome, which is characterized by the presence of abnormal moles on the skin that can also be precursors to skin melanoma.

Symptoms

Ocular melanoma may not cause early symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include visual disturbances such as blurred vision or a dark spot on the iris, a change in the shape of the pupil, or loss of peripheral vision. In some cases, the tumor can cause the eye to bulge or create discomfort in the eye, although these symptoms are less common.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ocular melanoma typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including indirect ophthalmoscopy, which allows the doctor to see the back of the eye. Additional imaging tests, such as ultrasound, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), may also be used to help diagnose the condition and determine its extent.

Treatment

Treatment for ocular melanoma depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Options may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, laser therapy, or thermotherapy. In some cases, particularly when the tumor is large or has caused significant damage to the eye, enucleation, or removal of the eye, may be necessary.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ocular melanoma varies depending on the size of the tumor and whether the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes. Regular follow-up care is important for monitoring for recurrence of the cancer or the development of metastases.

See Also

• Melanoma
• Cancer
• Eye Cancer
• Skin Melanoma

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