A diagnosis of uveal melanoma can bring a lot of unfamiliar terminology and questions. Understanding what uveal melanoma is, how it is diagnosed, and what may happen next can help patients and caregivers feel more prepared for conversations with their healthcare team.
What is uveal melanoma?
Uveal melanoma is a rare cancer that develops in the tissues of the eye. It begins in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Most uveal melanomas develop in the choroid or ciliary body. (Cancer.gov)
Although uveal melanoma is a type of melanoma, it is biologically different from melanoma that begins in the skin.
What are the symptoms of uveal melanoma?
Uveal melanoma does not always cause symptoms, particularly in its early stages. In some cases, it may be discovered during a routine dilated eye examination.
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Blurred vision or other changes in vision
- Flashes of light
- Floaters, which may appear as spots or shapes moving across the field of vision
- A dark spot on the iris
- Changes in the size or shape of the pupil
- Loss of part of the field of vision
These symptoms can also be caused by conditions unrelated to cancer. Anyone experiencing new or persistent changes in vision should discuss them with an eye care professional. (American Cancer Society)
How is uveal melanoma diagnosed?
An eye examination is an important part of diagnosing uveal melanoma. An ophthalmologist may dilate the pupil to examine structures inside the eye and may use specialized imaging or ultrasound to evaluate a suspicious area.
Unlike many other cancers, a biopsy is not always necessary to diagnose uveal melanoma. In some situations, tumor tissue may be tested to provide additional information about the cancer and its risk of spreading. (Cancer.gov)
What happens after a diagnosis?
Following a diagnosis, the healthcare team will evaluate characteristics of the tumor and determine whether there is evidence that the cancer has spread beyond the eye. This process is often referred to as staging.
Every person’s situation is different. The next steps may depend on factors such as the location and size of the tumor, overall health, and other characteristics of the cancer. Your healthcare team can explain what these findings mean for you.
Why does ongoing surveillance matter?
Uveal melanoma can sometimes spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. When it does, the liver is the most common site where metastatic disease is identified. For this reason, follow-up after a uveal melanoma diagnosis may include ongoing monitoring beyond the eye. (Cancer.gov)
The type and frequency of follow-up may vary based on individual circumstances. Patients should talk with their healthcare team about the surveillance plan recommended for them.
Finding reliable information
Learning about a rare cancer can feel overwhelming, particularly when information online varies in quality. Consider starting with established medical and patient-education organizations, including:
- National Cancer Institute (NCI)
- American Cancer Society (ACS)
- National Eye Institute (NEI)
- Patient advocacy organizations specializing in ocular or uveal melanoma
Your healthcare team can also help you understand which resources are appropriate for your individual situation.
Remember: No two uveal melanoma diagnoses are exactly alike. Asking questions and maintaining an ongoing conversation with your healthcare team can help you better understand your diagnosis and care.
Uveal melanoma is a rare form of eye cancer. It is the most common primary eye cancer in adults.
If uveal melanoma spreads, the liver is its most common site of metastasis.
Some patients experience few or no symptoms during the early stages.
Regular conversations with your healthcare team are important throughout the care journey.
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Sources
- National Cancer Institute. Intraocular (Uveal) Melanoma Treatment (PDQ®) – Patient Version.
- National Cancer Institute. Intraocular (Eye) Melanoma Treatment (PDQ®) – Health Professional Version.
- American Cancer Society. Signs and Symptoms of Eye Cancer.
- National Eye Institute. Get a Dilated Eye Exam.
- Jager MJ, Shields CL, Cebulla CM, et al. Uveal Melanoma. Nature Reviews Disease Primers. 2020;6:24.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your physician or healthcare team regarding your individual medical care.