Iridociliary melanoma: A rare disease that requires close monitoring and timely treatment
Iridociliary melanoma, also known as iris melanoma, is a rare form of cancer that develops in pigment-containing cells in the iris of the eye. This disease can occur in both children and adults and requires immediate professional intervention to prevent its progression and spread.
Iridociliary melanoma usually begins in the melanocytes of the iris, the pigment cells responsible for the color of the eye. As with other forms of melanoma, the causes of its occurrence are not yet fully understood. However, certain factors, such as genetics and sun exposure, may increase your risk of developing this disease.
One of the main symptoms of iridociliary melanoma is a change in the color of the iris. This usually manifests itself as the appearance of new spots or the expansion of existing pigmented areas. Other signs may include the presence of unusual bumps or thickening on the surface of the iris, as well as changes in the shape of the pupil. Patients may also have difficulty seeing or see lights flickering.
Various methods are used to diagnose iridociliary melanoma. One of them is an eye examination using a slit-type lamp, which allows the doctor to examine the iris in more detail and detect changes in its structure. You may also need a biopsy, which removes a tissue sample for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Treatment for iridociliary melanoma will depend on the stage of the disease and its extent. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove the tumor followed by laser or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. In more advanced cases, the eye may need to be removed (enucleation) to prevent the cancer from spreading to other tissues.
However, it is important to note that the prognosis for the outcome of iridociliary melanoma can vary significantly depending on the stage of the disease, the patient's age, and other factors. Therefore, early consultation with a doctor and timely treatment play a decisive role in the fight against this disease.
In conclusion, iridociliary melanoma is a rare but serious form of cancer that develops in the iris of the eye. Early detection and timely treatment are essential to predict patient outcome. If you suspect you have this condition or notice any changes in iris color or vision, see your eye doctor for a diagnosis and the best treatment plan.