Uveal Melanoma: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Uveal melanoma is a rare but serious type of eye cancer that develops in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It is significant because if not detected and treated early, it can spread to other parts of the body. While uveal melanoma is rare, accounting for only 5% of all melanoma cases, its prevalence is about 5 out of 1 million people. Early detection through regular eye exams is crucial for successful treatment and better outcomes.

Causes of Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma, a type of eye cancer, has several factors contributing to its development:

• Exposure to natural or artificial sunlight
• Fair skin and light eye color
• Genetic predisposition
• Advanced age
• Presence of certain moles in the eye

Symptoms of Uveal Melanoma

Early detection of Uveal Melanoma is crucial for improving outcomes. Recognizing the symptoms can aid in catching the disease in its early stages when treatment is most effective.

Common symptoms of Uveal Melanoma include:

• Blurred vision
• Floaters in vision
• A change in the shape of the pupil
• Loss of peripheral vision
• Flashing lights
• Dark spots on the iris

By being aware of these signs, individuals can seek prompt medical attention, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and appropriate management.

Diagnosis of Uveal Melanoma

Accurate diagnosis of Uveal Melanoma is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment plan and ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of tests to confirm the presence of Uveal Melanoma and assess its extent. Diagnostic methods include:

• Comprehensive eye examination
• Ultrasound imaging of the eye
• Fluorescein angiography
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• Biopsy or fine-needle aspiration

Treatment Options for Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma treatment approaches aim to provide individualized care for patients.

Surgery

• Surgical removal of the tumor.
• To remove the cancerous cells and prevent spread.
• To eliminate the primary tumor and prevent metastasis.
• May involve enucleation (removal of the eye) or local resection.

Radiation Therapy

• Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
• To destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.
• To control tumor growth and preserve vision.
• Options include plaque brachytherapy or proton beam therapy.

Targeted Therapy

• Using drugs to target specific genetic mutations in cancer cells.
• To inhibit specific pathways driving tumor growth.
• To block the growth and spread of cancer cells.
• May involve drugs like MEK inhibitors or immunotherapy.

Chemotherapy

• Administering drugs to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells.
• To stop cancer cell growth and division.
• To reduce tumor size and alleviate symptoms.
• Usually used in advanced or metastatic cases.

Prevention and Management of Uveal Melanoma

Making lifestyle changes and taking proactive measures can play a crucial role in preventing or managing Uveal Melanoma. Here's how you can take charge of your health:

Lifestyle Modifications:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays by wearing sunglasses and hats outdoors.
• Quit smoking to reduce the risk of cancer and other health complications.
• Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.

Regular Screenings:

• Attend scheduled eye exams to detect any abnormalities early on.
• Inform your eye care professional about any changes in vision or eye health.
• Monitor moles on the skin and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

Supportive Care:

• Seek emotional support from friends, family, or a counselor to cope with the diagnosis.
• Join a support group to connect with others facing similar challenges.
• Follow up with your healthcare team regularly to address any concerns or questions.

If you’ve been having any symptoms or worries about Uveal Melanoma, please reach out to our doctors. They will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.