Eye Melanoma (Ocular Melanoma): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment

Overview

Eye melanoma, also known as ocular melanoma, is a rare type of cancer that develops in the melanin-producing cells of the eye. These cells are responsible for giving color to the eyes and skin. Eye melanomas most commonly originate in parts of the eye that are not visible externally, making early detection challenging. Unlike skin melanomas, eye melanomas often do not present early symptoms, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

Types of Eye melanoma

Types of Eye Melanoma

Uveal Melanoma:
- This type develops in the uvea, which is the middle layer of the eye comprising the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.
Conjunctival Melanoma:
- Conjunctival melanoma affects the conjunctiva, the thin, clear membrane covering the white part of the eye (sclera).

Causes of Eye melanoma

Genetic Mutations: Mutations in certain genes can lead to uncontrolled growth of melanocytes in the eye.
Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV) Light: Prolonged exposure to UV light, including sunlight, may increase the risk.
Fair Skin and Light Eye Color: Individuals with fair skin and light-colored eyes are at higher risk.
Age: The risk of eye melanoma increases with age, especially after 50 years.
Family History: A family history of melanoma or other cancers can predispose individuals to eye melanoma

Risk Factors of Eye melanoma

Age: Risk increases with age, peaking in individuals over 50.
Race and Ethnicity: Caucasians are more susceptible compared to other racial groups.
Ocular Melanocytosis: Having more melanocytes in the eye can increase risk.
Previous Radiation Exposure: Radiation therapy near the eyes increases the risk.
Occupational Hazards: Certain occupations involving exposure to chemicals or radiation may elevate risk.

Symptoms of Eye melanoma

The common Symptoms of Eye Melanoma are:

1. Blurred Vision: Vision may become blurry or dark spots may appear in the field of vision.

2. Floaters: Dark spots or shapes that float across the visual field.

3. Flashes of Light: Brief flashes or arcs of light in the side vision.

4. Loss of Peripheral Vision: Decreased ability to see objects out of the corner of the eye.

5. Change in Iris Color: Change in the color of the iris or appearance of dark spots on the iris.

6. Sensation of Flashes or Glare: Seeing flashes of light or glare that are not caused by an external light source.

7. Bulging of the Eye: The eye may appear to be bulging or protruding.

Preventions of Eye melanoma

Preventing eye melanoma involves minimizing exposure to risk factors such as UV light. Strategies include:

Wearing Sunglasses: Use sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
Eye Protection: Use goggles or other protective eyewear when exposed to hazardous chemicals or radiation.
Regular Eye Exams: Routine eye exams can aid in early detection and treatment.

Diagnosis of Eye melanoma

1.Eye Exam: Includes examination of the retina, iris, and other structures of the eye.

2.Ultrasound Imaging: Uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the eye.

3.Fluorescein Angiography: A dye is injected into a vein to highlight blood vessels in the eye.

4.Biopsy: Removal of a sample of suspicious tissue for examination under a microscope.

Treatment for Eye melanoma

1.Observation: Small tumors may be monitored closely without immediate treatment.

2.Radiation Therapy: External beam radiation or plaque radiation therapy to target and shrink the tumor.

3.Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor, sometimes combined with radiation.

4.Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy: Used in cases where the cancer has spread beyond the eye.

When to seek medical attention ?

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience any unusual changes in your vision or eye appearance, such as dark spots, blurred vision, or flashes of light. Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best chance for successful management of eye melanoma.