Ocular Melanoma

Ocular melanoma, or melanoma of the eye, is the most common primary eye tumor in adults with around 2,000 new cases diagnosed each year in the United States. Like other melanomas, it begins in melanocytes – the cells that produce the pigment melanin that colors the skin, hair, and eyes, as well as forms moles.

Where does ocular melanoma occur?

Ocular melanoma, also known as uveal melanoma or choroidal melanoma, is usually found in the part of the eye called the uvea, which is composed of:

• The iris - the colored part of the eye that opens and closes to change the amount of light that enters the eye.
• The ciliary body - a muscle in the eye that changes the shape of the lens so the eye can focus.
• The choroid - a layer of tissue that is in the back of the eye, next to the retina, that makes a picture. Choroidal melanomas are the most common type of ocular melanoma.

Frequency, Incidence & Risk Factors

Melanoma of the skin increased in frequency over the last several decades, while such a trend is less evident with ocular melanoma. About 6 people per 1 million are diagnosed with ocular melanoma in the U.S. every year, while invasive melanoma of the skin occurs in approximately 1 in 50 Americans each year. The incidence is similar in other Caucasian populations worldwide. Ocular melanoma accounts for approximately 5-12% of all melanoma cases. Some studies suggest that fair skin type and exposure to UV light may be risk factors. Ocular melanoma tends to occur slightly more often in males than in females and overall risk tends to increase with age.

 

OCULAR MELANOMA FACTS

Ocular (uveal) melanoma, or melanoma of the eye, is the most common form of eye cancer in adults. Did you know:

• Ocular melanoma is not thought to be related to sun exposure
• Approximately 2,000 Americans are diagnosed with ocular melanoma each year
• Eye tumors should be treated by an ophthalmologist who specializes in treating ocular melanoma
• Ocular melanoma spreads to other organs in the body in about half of all cases
• When ocular melanoma spreads, it most commonly spreads to the liver

Be sure to watch for symptoms of ocular melanoma, which include bulging eyes, change in eye color, poor vision, or red, painful eyes. But remember--some people will not have any noticeable symptoms.