Ocular Melanoma
Also known as Uveal Melanoma, Choroidal Melanoma, Iris Melanoma, Eye Melanoma, Intraocular Melanoma
Bottom Line
Ocular melanoma is a rare cancer that starts in the pigment cells of the eye. It often needs an ocular oncology specialist, even when vision seems normal.
Ocular melanoma most often means uveal melanoma. It can start in the iris, ciliary body, or choroid inside the eye 1.
Some tumors cause no symptoms and are found during a dilated eye exam. Others cause blurred vision, flashes, floaters, a shadow, or a visible dark spot 1.
Treatment depends on tumor size and location. Radiation plaque treatment, proton therapy, laser, surgery, or eye removal may be considered 2.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Ocular melanoma may have no early symptoms. When symptoms occur, they can include:
- Blurred or distorted vision.
- Flashes or floaters.
- A dark spot in vision.
- A visible dark iris spot.
- A curtain or sudden vision loss. This needs emergency care.
Uveal melanoma is the most common primary cancer inside the adult eye 1.
Treatment
The goal is to control the cancer and preserve the eye when possible.
- Plaque radiation. A small radiation source is placed on the eye wall near the tumor.
- Proton therapy. A focused beam treats some tumors.
- Laser or local surgery. These may fit selected cases.
- Eye removal. This may be safest for very large or painful tumors.
Radiation methods have different risks for vision, cataract, dry eye, and retina damage 2.
Common Questions About Ocular Melanoma
Next Steps
- 1Book a dilated eye exam for any new dark eye spot or unexplained visual shadow.
- 2Ask for ocular oncology referral if a pigmented lesion is growing or suspicious.
- 3Go to the emergency room for sudden vision loss or a curtain in vision.
- 4Bring prior eye photos, ultrasound reports, and cancer history.
- 5Keep long-term follow-up after treatment.
Find specialists for Ocular Melanoma
Board-certified ophthalmologists who treat Ocular Melanoma.
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