Ocular Melanoma
Ocular melanoma is the most common type of eye cancer, typically affecting the eye’s middle layer. Learn all about its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
What Is Ocular Melanoma?
Ocular melanoma is a form of eye cancer that develops in your eye’s pigment-producing cells. Most people are familiar with melanoma in relation to skin cancer. While much rarer, ocular melanoma is the second most common type of melanoma and similarly affects cells that produce melanin (or pigment).
This condition usually originates in the middle of the eye, or the uvea, which includes:
- Iris: The colored part of your eye
- Ciliary body: A thin layer of tissue that produces aqueous humor, or the fluid that fills the front part of the eye
- Choroid (posterior uvea): The layer of the eye between the retina and the white outer layer known as the sclera
Ocular melanoma can develop in any part of the uvea. In rare cases, it can occur in other parts of the eye, like the conjunctiva, or the clear membrane that covers the white of your eye.
Causes
What causes ocular melanoma is not entirely clear, but like all cancers, it involves damage to cells’ DNA. Both genetic and environmental factors may contribute to its development.
Risk factors for ocular melanoma may include:
- Fair skin and Caucasian descent
- Light eye color
- Having a mole on the eye
- Prolonged exposure to natural or artificial sunlight
- Certain genetic skin conditions
- Age over 60 years
Keep in mind that this condition is very rare, even among those who have risk factors.
Symptoms
Symptoms of ocular melanoma can vary but often include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Seeing flashes of light
- Persistent presence of “floaters” or specks in your vision
- A dark spot or color change on your eye
- Increased pressure or bulging eyes
- Red and painful eyes
- A change in your pupil shape
- Reduction or loss of vision
- Formation of cataracts
Ocular melanoma may be present without noticeable symptoms, especially in its early stages. Furthermore, many of its symptoms overlap with those of other conditions. Regular eye exams are essential to identify any eye health issues you may have.
Diagnosis
A dilated eye exam is one of the best ways to detect ocular melanoma in its early stages. In many cases, signs of possible melanoma can be detected during a routine eye exam with an optometrist, though further testing is typically done by an ophthalmologist for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.
Your ophthalmologist will inspect the inside of your eye and then take pictures and ultrasound images. They may gather more information with specialized tests like:
- Angiography
- CT scan
- MRI
- Biopsy
Treatment Options
Treatment for ocular melanoma can depend on the size and location of the tumor. It is most often provided by an eye specialist or oncologist. Options may include:
- Surgery
- Laser therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Photodynamic therapy
- Cryotherapy (freezing)
- A combination of treatments
For small melanomas, no treatment—just regular monitoring—may be indicated unless the melanoma causes complications or shows signs of growth. The earlier ocular melanoma is diagnosed, the higher the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Schedule an eye exam with Visionworks to stay on top of your vision health and keep your eyes in great shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Common Is Ocular Melanoma?
Does Ocular Melanoma Spread to Other Places?
Can Ocular Melanoma Be Prevented?
