Uveal melanoma

Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma (pronounced: yoo-vee-al mel-uh-noh-muh) is a rare form of melanoma that primarily affects the eye. It is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults, originating from the melanocytes found in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

Etymology

The term "uveal melanoma" is derived from two words. "Uveal" comes from the Latin word "uva" meaning grape, referring to the grape-like appearance of the uvea. "Melanoma" is derived from the Greek words "melas" meaning black and "oma" meaning tumor, referring to the dark color of the tumors due to the pigment melanin produced by melanocytes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of uveal melanoma may include blurred vision, visual field loss, floaters, and in some cases, pain. However, many cases are asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during routine eye examinations.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of uveal melanoma typically involves a comprehensive eye examination, including ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein angiography. Further imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the disease.

Treatment

Treatment options for uveal melanoma include radiation therapy, laser therapy, surgery, or in some cases, enucleation (removal of the eye). The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health and personal preferences.

Prognosis

The prognosis for uveal melanoma varies widely and depends on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the patient's overall health, and the presence of metastasis. Despite treatment, uveal melanoma can metastasize, most commonly to the liver.

Related Terms

• Melanoma
• Melanocytes
• Uvea
• Ophthalmoscopy
• Fluorescein angiography
• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• MRI
• Radiation therapy
• Laser therapy
• Surgery
• Enucleation

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Uveal melanoma
• Wikipedia's article - Uveal melanoma

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