UVEAL MELANOM

WHAT IS UVEAL MELANOMA?

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary malignant (intraocular) tumor of the eye in adults.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF UVEAL MELANOMA?

Choroidal melanoma causes symptoms such as glare, flying flies, blurred and distorted vision, decreased vision, narrowing of the visual field (scotoma), inflammation, pain, redness, and advanced glaucoma. Tumors that affect the iris, which is the colored membrane of the eye, show signs such as changes in eye color, changes in the shape of the pupil, and spontaneous bleeding in the eye.

HOW IS UVEAL MELANOMA DIAGNOSED?

The diagnosis of uveal melanoma is based on a clinical eye examination, ultrasound, fundus angiography, computed tomography, and x-rays such as magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, chest X-ray, liver function tests, and abdominal ultrasound are performed to investigate metastases.

HOW IS UVEAL MELANOMA TREATED?

There are various treatment options for uveal melanoma: laser therapy, cryotherapy, heat therapy (thermotherapy), or surgical removal can be used for small tumors, radioactive plaque, and helium or proton beam therapy, which are not available in our country, can be used for medium-sized tumors and the eyes with good eyesight. There are no sufficient and long-term results of cyberknife treatment yet.

WHAT IS RADIOACTIVE PLATE TREATMENT FOR UVEAL MELANOMA?

Diagnosis of uveal melanoma is carried out using X-ray studies such as clinical eye examination, ultrasound, fundus angiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, a chest x-ray, liver function tests, and abdominal ultrasound are performed to study metastases. There are various treatment options for uveal melanoma. Radioactive plaque is the world standard of care worldwide for tumors less than 12 mm in height and less than 18 mm in base diameter.

For larger tumors, proton beam therapy, which is not available in our country, can be used. There are no sufficient and long-term results of cyberknife therapy yet.

Prepared by the Dünyagöz Hospital Editorial Board.

*The content of this page is for informational purposes only. See your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Last Update Date: 23.06.2023