What is Uveal Melanoma?
Uveal melanoma is a rare and aggressive form of
cancer that originates in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. The uvea consists of three parts: the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. While it accounts for only about 5% of all melanoma cases, it is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Certain factors increase the risk of developing uveal melanoma. These include having fair skin, light-colored eyes, and a family history of
melanoma. Additionally, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and certain genetic mutations, such as in the BAP1 gene, can also contribute to the risk.
Symptoms to Watch For
Early stages of uveal melanoma often present no symptoms. As the tumor grows, symptoms may include blurred vision, floating spots in the visual field, and changes in the shape or size of the pupil. In some cases, the affected eye may also become painful or red.Diagnostic Procedures
Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests such as
ultrasound, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography. A biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Treatment for uveal melanoma depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Options include:1. Radiation Therapy: Brachytherapy, or plaque radiotherapy, involves placing radioactive material close to the tumor.
2. Surgery: Procedures like enucleation (removal of the eye) or local resection are considered in advanced cases.
3. Laser Therapy: Techniques like transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) can be used to destroy cancer cells with heat.
Prognosis and Survival Rates
The prognosis for uveal melanoma varies. Early detection and treatment can improve outcomes, but the overall survival rate remains lower compared to other types of
melanoma. The 5-year survival rate is approximately 70-80%, but this drops significantly if the cancer metastasizes to other parts of the body, particularly the liver.
Research and Future Directions
Ongoing research aims to improve diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities, and understanding of the genetic underpinnings of uveal melanoma. Clinical trials are exploring the efficacy of targeted therapies and immunotherapies, which hold promise for better management of this challenging cancer.Prevention and Monitoring
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent uveal melanoma, regular eye exams can help detect it early. People at higher risk should be especially vigilant. Protective measures such as wearing sunglasses that block UV rays can also reduce risk.
