Summary about Disease
Uveal melanoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. The uvea consists of the iris (the colored part of the eye), the ciliary body (which produces fluid in the eye and helps with focusing), and the choroid (a layer of blood vessels between the retina and the sclera, the white of the eye). Uveal melanoma is different from skin melanoma and requires specific treatment approaches. It can be life-threatening if it spreads beyond the eye (metastasizes).
Symptoms
Many people with uveal melanoma have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
Blurred vision
Dark spot on the iris
Change in the shape of the pupil
Poor or blurry vision in one eye
Seeing floaters or flashes of light
Loss of peripheral vision
Eye pain (rare)
Causes
The exact cause of uveal melanoma is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to genetic mutations. Risk factors include:
Light Eye Color: People with blue eyes are at a higher risk.
Caucasian Race: Uveal melanoma is more common in white people.
Certain Inherited Conditions: Such as dysplastic nevus syndrome (atypical mole syndrome).
Sun exposure: There are some links with sun exposure and increased risk.
Age: Risk increases with age.
Medicine Used
Treatment options for uveal melanoma vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Treatments include:
Radiation Therapy: This can be delivered using a plaque (a radioactive disc placed on the eye) or external beam radiation.
Surgery: Enucleation (removal of the eye) may be necessary for large tumors or if other treatments fail. Local resection can also be used for smaller tumors.
Laser Therapy: Transpupillary Thermotherapy (TTT) is a laser treatment used for smaller tumors.
Targeted Therapy: Medications that target specific proteins involved in the growth of melanoma cells.
Immunotherapy: Medications that boost the body's immune system to fight cancer cells (used more often for metastatic disease).
Chemotherapy: Used when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Is Communicable
No, uveal melanoma is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions to prevent uveal melanoma, as the exact cause is unknown. However, general health recommendations include:
Eye Exams: Regular eye exams can help detect uveal melanoma early, when it is more treatable.
Sun Protection: Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays may offer some protection.
Genetic Counseling: If you have a family history of uveal melanoma or other cancers, genetic counseling may be beneficial.
How long does an outbreak last?
Uveal melanoma is not an outbreak. It is a type of cancer that develops over time. The duration of the disease depends on the stage at diagnosis, the type of treatment received, and how the individual responds to treatment.
How is it diagnosed?
Uveal melanoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, which may include:
Ophthalmoscopy: Examining the inside of the eye with a special instrument.
Ultrasound: Using sound waves to create an image of the eye.
Fluorescein Angiography: Injecting dye into the bloodstream to visualize blood vessels in the eye.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Imaging technique that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina and choroid.
Biopsy: Rarely performed due to the risk of spreading the tumor, but may be considered in certain cases.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary greatly. Some individuals may have no symptoms for a long time, while others may experience a rapid onset of symptoms. Symptoms can develop slowly over months or years as the tumor grows. Initial symptoms are often subtle, such as blurred vision or floaters. As the tumor grows, more noticeable symptoms like vision loss or a change in the shape of the pupil may occur.
Important Considerations
Early Detection: Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Treatment should be managed by a team of specialists, including an ophthalmologist, oncologist, and radiation oncologist.
Metastasis: Uveal melanoma can spread to other parts of the body, most commonly the liver. Regular monitoring for metastasis is important.
Genetic Testing: Genetic testing of the tumor can provide information about prognosis and guide treatment decisions.
Clinical Trials: Consider participating in clinical trials to access new and innovative treatments.