About Ocular Melanoma

What is Ocular Melanoma?

Ocular melanoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the cells of the eye. It is the most common primary cancer of the eye in adults, and it can occur in both the iris and the choroid (the layer of tissue between the retina and the sclera). Symptoms of ocular melanoma include blurred vision, flashes of light, and a dark spot on the iris. Treatment options include radiation therapy, laser therapy, and surgery.

What are the symptoms of Ocular Melanoma?

The most common symptom of ocular melanoma is a change in the appearance of the affected eye, such as a dark spot or growth on the iris, a change in the shape of the pupil, or a dark spot on the white of the eye. Other symptoms may include blurred vision, flashes of light, floaters, or a change in the way the eye moves.

What are the causes of Ocular Melanoma?

Ocular melanoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the cells of the eye. The exact cause of ocular melanoma is unknown, but there are several risk factors that may increase a person's chances of developing the condition. These include:

• Age: Ocular melanoma is more common in people over the age of 50.

• Gender: Ocular melanoma is more common in men than in women.

• Race: Ocular melanoma is more common in people of African descent.

• Sun exposure: People who have had a lot of sun exposure may be at an increased risk of developing ocular melanoma.

• Family history: People with a family history of ocular melanoma may be at an increased risk of developing the condition.

• Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations may increase a person

What are the treatments for Ocular Melanoma?

The main treatments for ocular melanoma are:

1. Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for ocular melanoma. It involves removing the tumor and some of the surrounding tissue.

2. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It can be used to treat ocular melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body.

3. Photodynamic Therapy: Photodynamic therapy uses a light-sensitive drug and a special type of light to kill cancer cells.

4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses drugs to boost the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer.

5. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs to target specific molecules in cancer cells. This can help stop the growth and spread of cancer.

What are the risk factors for Ocular Melanoma?

1. Light skin color
2. Family history of ocular melanoma
3. Having a large number of moles on the body
4. Having a history of sunburns
5. Having a history of UV radiation exposure
6. Having a history of certain eye diseases, such as uveal melanoma
7. Being over the age of 50
8. Having a history of certain genetic conditions, such as dysplastic nevus syndrome or BAP1 tumor predisposition syndrome

Is there a cure/medications for Ocular Melanoma?

Yes, there are treatments available for ocular melanoma. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, treatment options may include radiation therapy, laser therapy, cryotherapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery. Your doctor will be able to discuss the best treatment option for you.