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Retinal findings in melanoma-associated retinopathy
L M Borkowski1, S Grover, G A Fishman
1Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|July 31, 2001
Summary
Two patients with metastatic melanoma developed unusual retinopathy, showing serum antibodies against retinal bipolar cells. These findings highlight potential autoimmune fundus changes in melanoma-associated retinopathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- Melanoma-associated retinopathy (MAR) is an autoimmune condition.
- MAR is characterized by visual disturbances and characteristic fundus findings.
Observation:
- Two patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma presented with MAR.
- Unusual fundus lesions, not previously described in MAR, were observed in both patients.
- Both patients exhibited serum antibodies reactive against retinal bipolar cells.
Findings:
- The observed fundus changes may be linked to autoimmune processes.
- One patient also developed vitiligo, suggesting a broader autoimmune manifestation.
- Antibodies against retinal bipolar cells were confirmed via immunofluorescence.
Implications:
- These findings expand the understanding of MAR's clinical presentation.
- The study suggests that autoimmune responses in MAR can lead to diverse fundus lesions.
- Early recognition of these unusual findings is crucial for managing patients with metastatic melanoma and retinopathy.