Ocular Melanoma: What You Need to Know

When dealing with ocular melanoma, a rare cancer that arises from pigment‑producing cells in the eye. Also known as eye melanoma, it can threaten vision and life if not caught early.

One major subtype is uveal melanoma, the most common form, originating in the uveal tract which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. A related condition, choroidal melanoma, specifically affects the choroid layer and often presents as a dark spot on routine eye exams. Both subtypes share risk factors such as light eye color and certain genetic mutations.

How It’s Diagnosed and Treated

Early detection relies on thorough eye exams performed by specialists in ocular oncology, the field that blends ophthalmology and cancer care. Imaging tools like ultrasound and optical coherence tomography help map tumor size and shape. Once confirmed, treatment choices hinge on tumor dimensions, location, and patient health.

Traditionally, radiation therapy, especially plaque brachytherapy, delivers focused doses to the tumor while sparing surrounding tissue. Immunotherapy is gaining traction as a systemic option, boosting the body's own defenses to target melanoma cells. Surgical removal, laser therapy, and emerging gene‑editing approaches also play roles depending on the case.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into each of these aspects—diagnostic tricks, treatment comparisons, patient stories, and the latest research. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or eye‑care professional, the collection offers practical insights to help you navigate ocular melanoma with confidence.