Eye melanoma, also called ocular melanoma, is the most common type of eye cancer. Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops in the cells that produce melanin (the pigment that gives your skin its colour). Because your eyes also have melanin-producing cells, they can develop melanoma.
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Eye melanoma symptoms
There are two types of eye melanoma:
- uveal melanoma – the most common type of eye melanoma that develops in the uvea, which sits beneath the white of the eyes
- conjunctival melanoma – a rarer type of eye melanoma that develops in the conjunctiva, a thin, clear membrane that lubricates and protects your eye
Eye melanoma does not typically cause early signs or symptoms, which can make it hard to identify. Individuals with a family history of melanoma, or excessive exposure to UV light may be at higher risk.
Uveal melanoma symptoms may include:
- blurred vision
- seeing a peripheral shadow
- experiencing flashing lights
In turn, conjunctival melanoma may manifest itself by:
- new brown or dark patches appearing on the white area or the surface of the eye
- existing brown or dark patches on the white area of the eye getting bigger
- a raised, skin-coloured bump on the white of the eye
What causes eye melanoma?
It’s not clear exactly what causes eye melanoma. However, we have a good idea of the risk factors that can contribute to developing the condition:
- skin and hair type – people with fair hair, fair skin, and blue eyes are at a higher risk
- exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays – there is evidence linking conjunctival melanoma to exposure to UV rays through sunlight, sunbeds or sunlamps
- atypical mole syndrome – people with atypical mole syndrome, which is associated with having 100 or more moles on the body, are at a higher risk
- primary acquired melanosis (PAM) – PAM causes many brown or dark patches (pigmentation) on the conjunctiva, usually in one eye, which can develop into melanoma
Eye melanoma treatments
The treatment you receive will depend on the specific characteristics of your eye melanoma.
Radiotherapy
Uses high-energy waves, which are like X-rays, to kill cancer cells over a number of short, daily treatments.
Chemotherapy
Uses anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs which circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream and destroy cancer cells.
Laser treatment
Uses infrared light to burn the cancer cells away through heat, focused on cancer cells through the pupil.
Surgery
Depending on the size and location of your eye melanoma, surgery may involve removing the part of the eye with the melanoma and a small portion of healthy tissue which surrounds it or more extensive surgery.
When to see a consultant?
These symptoms can be caused by other eye conditions. However, if you have any of the signs or symptoms listed above, or you notice any sudden changes in your vision, you should make an appointment with a retinal specialist at The London Clinic Eye Centre.
Request an appointment with one of the eye specialists from The London Clinic Eye Centre.
Eye melanoma diagnosis
Trained ophthalmologists can usually identify a suspicion of eye melanoma, but a diagnosis requires an expert review with an ocular oncologist.
At The London Clinic Eye Centre, an ocular oncologist will distinguish eye melanoma from other forms of eye disease using our high-tech imaging facilities and different tests, including:
- an ultrasound – a probe is used to create an image showing the size and location of your tumour
- fluorescein angiography – this uses a dye which is injected into your bloodstream and can highlight abnormalities in pictures taken using a specially-designed camera
- biopsy – this is where a thin needle is inserted into the tumour to remove cells which are then examined in the laboratory by our expert pathologists. Specialist genetic tests called cytogenetic testing may be used to identify the characteristics of melanoma
Our experts
Why choose The London Clinic Eye Centre?
The London Clinic Eye Centre provides the highest standards of eye care. Our team of expert ophthalmologists work in partnership with world leaders and experts from all aspects of medicine, combining state-of-the-art diagnostics with cutting-edge therapies to deliver a best-in-class service to a global audience.
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Our ophthalmologists bring global experience across the full range of eye conditions, supported by advanced imaging and The London Clinic’s world-class facilities.
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From your first appointment to follow-up, our clinicians, nurses and support teams provide coordinated, bespoke care so you always feel confident and supported.
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Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, treatment or a specialist opinion, our Eye Centre team is here to help. Find out more about how we can support your eye health.