Choroidal Melanoma
Choroidal melanoma is a tumor or cancer that arises in the choroid layer of the eye. The choroid is one of the layers of the eye and is located between the retina (the layer that perceives light at the back of the eye) and the sclera (the white part of the eye). The choroid contains blood vessels that supply the eye with blood and nutrients. Choroidal melanoma develops as a result of the uncontrolled growth of cells called melanocytes in the choroid layer.
Choroidal melanoma is a tumor or cancer that arises in the choroid layer of the eye. The choroid is one of the layers of the eye and is located between the retina (the layer that perceives light at the back of the eye) and the sclera (the white part of the eye). The choroid contains blood vessels that supply the eye with blood and nutrients. Choroidal melanoma develops as a result of the uncontrolled growth of cells called melanocytes in the choroid layer.
Choroidal Melanoma
Choroidal melanoma is a type of eye cancer that originates from the choroid layer of the eye. The choroid is a pigmented layer located between the retina (the layer that perceives light) and the sclera (the white outer layer of the eye).
Choroidal melanomas typically affect middle-aged and older adults. They develop due to the abnormal growth and uncontrolled multiplication of cells called melanocytes. In this condition, melanocytes produce a pigment called melanin, which determines the color of the tumor.
Symptoms of choroidal melanoma can include:
- Blurred or decreased vision: The tumor can affect vision, leading to blurred or decreased vision.
- Changes in colored images: Individuals with choroidal melanoma may notice changes or disturbances in colored images.
- Eye pain or discomfort: As the tumor grows, it may cause pain or discomfort inside the eye.
- Swelling or protrusion in the eye: Choroidal melanomas can create swelling or protrusion in the eye by compressing the choroid or altering the shape of the eye. The diagnosis of choroidal melanoma is made by an eye doctor or an ocular oncologist.
Diagnostic methods may include eye examinations, ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and biopsy. Biopsy involves the collection of a sample of tissue for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of the tumor.
The treatment of choroidal melanoma is personalized based on the size of the tumor, the risk of spreading, the patient's age, and overall health. Treatment options may include radiotherapy, proton therapy, thermotherapy (heat therapy), intraocular laser therapy, enucleation (removal of the eye), and local therapies.