Eye Conditions

Melanoma (Choridal Melanoma)

A choroidal melanoma is a malignant tumor composed of melanocytes—pigment (coloring matter) containing and producing cells normally present in the choroid (the pigmented vascular layer beneath the retina). If ignored, this type of tumor may spread to areas around the eye or metastasize to distant areas of the body (i.e., the liver or lung) and can cause death. Early detection and treatment may prevent these devastating events.

Signs and Symptoms

• No symptoms initially if located away from the macula

• Tumor that develops next to or in the macula may produce distorted and/or reduced vision

• Tumors located away from the macula may produce changes in the visual field (side of vision) as they enlarge, and the patient may complain of a dark area or shadow to one side

• Changes in the vitreous (the gel-like substance that fills the eye) and produce flashes of light or floaters (black spots)

• Retinal detachment

• Increased pigmentation on the sclera

• Most choroidal melanomas are therefore discovered by the ophthalmologist on routine examination

Treatments and Prevention

• Enucleation, which is removal of the eye

• Radioactive plaque therapy (sewing a disc with radiation to the eyewall)

• External radiation therapy (using charged radioactive particles that are directed into the eye to treat the tumor)

• Local resection techniques (cutting out the tumor while attempting to save the remainder of the eye)

UIC Specialists
Norman Blair, MD
Michael Shapiro, MD

Treatment Clinic/Service
Vitreoretinal Service

Eye Facts Article
Choridal Melanoma

Clinical Studies and Trials
Norman Blair, MD, Site Principal Investigator

SPONSOR: National Eye Institute
TITLE: Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study (COMS)
Study Coordinator: Andrew Cross, COT

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.