Ophthalmic melanoma is a type of cancer that affects the eye. It is also known as uveal melanoma and is a rare type of melanoma that affects the middle layer of the eye, called the uvea.
The uvea consists of three parts: the iris (the colored part of the eye), the ciliary body (a ring of muscle behind the iris), and the choroid (a layer of blood vessels and connective tissue behind the ciliary body). Ophthalmic melanoma can be life-threatening if it is not diagnosed and treated early.
Signs and Symptoms of Ophthalmic Melanoma
Ophthalmic melanoma may not cause any signs or symptoms in the early stages. It is often discovered during a routine eye exam. However, as the tumor grows, it can cause a range of symptoms such as:.
1. Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a common symptom of ophthalmic melanoma. It may be caused by the tumor pressing against the retina or by changes in the shape of the eye.
2. Vision Changes
Vision changes can occur when the tumor changes the shape and function of the eye. You may notice that objects look distorted or that your vision is dimmer than usual.
3. Floaters
Floaters are small specks or spots that appear in your vision. They can be caused by debris in the vitreous, the clear gel that fills the eye. In some cases, floaters can be caused by ophthalmic melanoma.
4. Flashes of Light
Flashes of light can occur when the tumor pulls on the retina. The flashes may look like twinkling lights or lightning bolts.
5. Eye Pain
Eye pain can be caused by ophthalmic melanoma if the tumor is pressing against the eye or if it has caused inflammation in the eye.
Related Article
Recognizing Eye Melanoma: A Guide for Patients
6. Redness and Swelling
Redness and swelling around the eye can be caused by ophthalmic melanoma if the tumor has caused inflammation in the eye.
7. Changes in the Shape or Size of the Eye
Ophthalmic melanoma can cause changes in the shape or size of the eye. You may notice that the affected eye looks larger than the other eye, or that the iris (the colored part of the eye) is a different shape or size.
8. A Spot on the Iris
If the tumor is located in the iris (the colored part of the eye), you may notice a dark spot or discoloration on the iris.
9. High Intraocular Pressure
The tumor may cause high intraocular pressure, which is a condition when the pressure inside the eye is higher than normal. High intraocular pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.
10. Loss of Vision
If ophthalmic melanoma is not diagnosed and treated early, it can lead to vision loss. This is because the tumor can damage the retina and other parts of the eye.
Conclusion
Ophthalmic melanoma is a rare type of cancer that affects the eye. It may not cause any signs or symptoms in the early stages, but it can cause a range of symptoms as the tumor grows.
If you experience any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see an eye doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of recovery.
