Intraocular melanoma, also known as ocular melanoma, is a rare form of cancer that can impact vision. Early detection and specialized care are crucial for preserving your eye health.
Intraocular melanoma is a rare form of cancer that begins in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) inside your eye. It is a serious condition that generally develops within the uveal tract, the middle layer of the eye. Our eye doctors are dedicated to not only addressing the cancer itself but also preserving as much vision as possible throughout treatment.
Intraocular melanoma, often known as ocular melanoma, arises from melanocytes, which are the cells responsible for pigment production. Although melanoma is more commonly associated with the skin, it can also develop within the eye’s internal structures. It most frequently occurs in the uvea—the layer that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid—making this condition particularly significant for retinal and eye health specialists.
The process behind intraocular melanoma begins when melanocytes, which normally help determine the color of your eyes, start to grow uncontrollably. This unchecked growth results in the formation of tumors that can potentially interfere with the eye’s normal function. Even though this type of cancer is rare, its impact on vision and overall eye health cannot be underestimated.
Where the melanoma develops within the eye is an important factor in both diagnosis and treatment planning. Each type has its own characteristics:
Each of these types, while sharing a common origin in melanocytes, can present unique challenges in terms of detection and treatment.
Understanding who is more likely to develop intraocular melanoma helps our eye doctors provide more personalized care. Several factors can influence a person's risk:
Knowing these risk factors allows our specialists to advise on protective measures, such as wearing UV-protective sunglasses and scheduling regular comprehensive eye exams.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and learn more about protecting your vision from intraocular melanoma.
One challenge with intraocular melanoma is that it can develop silently, with few symptoms until it becomes more advanced. When symptoms do appear, they are often subtle and may be mistaken for other eye conditions. Being aware of the possible signs is important:
Since these symptoms can mimic other less serious conditions, it’s essential to see our eye doctors for a thorough examination if you notice even minor changes in your vision or the appearance of your eyes.
Because intraocular melanoma often does not present obvious symptoms in its early stages, accurate diagnosis usually occurs during routine eye exams. Our eye doctors rely on advanced technology to detect these tumors early on. Let’s take a closer look at the diagnostic process.
The foundation of diagnosing intraocular melanoma is a comprehensive eye exam. During the exam, our specialists examine both the external aspects of the eye and the intricate internal structures using specialized equipment. They look for abnormalities such as larger-than-normal blood vessels, irregular shapes, or tissue changes that could signal the presence of a tumor.
Several imaging tests are critical for confirming the diagnosis and understanding the tumor’s characteristics. Here’s an overview of the key methods:
For cases where there is concern about metastasis or the extent of the tumor, additional tests such as MRI, CT scans, or liver function tests might be recommended. These extra steps ensure that any spread of the cancer can be identified as early as possible.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and learn more about protecting your vision from intraocular melanoma.
Intraocular melanoma affects eye health, requiring early detection and treatment. Know the signs and find specialists near you.
