Iris Melanoma

Question 1

Description

Answer 1

Malignant tumour of iris

Question 2

Differential diagnosis

Answer 2

• naevi

• congenital iris defects

Question 3

Signs

Answer 3

• area of iris is different colour to surrounding area

• may appear thicker and cause distortion of pupil

• can bleed causing hyphaema

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

• usually asymptomatic

• symptoms of secondary glaucoma due to angle blockage

Question 5

Pathogenesis

Answer 5

• uncontrolled growth of melanocytes

• can develop from pre-existing naevi

• common in px over 50

• more prevalent in light coloured iris

• no link to UV exposure found

Question 6

Management

Answer 6

• URGENT referral to GP / HES

• treatment is surgical

• if advanced - removal of the eye