Malignant Tumors of the ciliary body

Question 1

Etiology

Answer 1

Proliferation of atypical melanocytes.

Question 2

Signs

Answer 2

Smooth dome shape elevation of the iris. May be visualized as an melanotic or dark brown mass on fundoscopy/gonio.

Sentinel vessel (dilated episcleral vessel) in same quadrant as tumor

May extend through peripheral iris and become visible as a nodular mass

May extend through the sclera and become visible as a dark epibulbar nodule.

Lower IOP

Pressure on the lens may cause astigmatism, subluxation or cataract.

Question 3

Sentinel vessel

Answer 3

(dilated episcleral vessel) in same quadrant as tumor

Question 4

Complications

Answer 4

Metastasis. 10 year mortality rate is 30-50% due to metastasis.

Glaucoma

Question 5

Which uveal malignancy has the worst prognosis?

Answer 5

Ciliary body- they are hidden behind the iris. Usually not detected until they are large.