Diagnostic intraocular aspiration cytology of choroidal melanoma

Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was performed on an intraocular mass in a 32-yr-old Indian woman and a cytologic diagnosis of malignant melanoma was made, supported by immunocytochemistry. The cytologic features included spindle-shaped tumour cells with minimal pleomorphism and the presence of nuclear grooves. No intracellular pigment was identified; however, positivity for HMB-45 allowed a rapid and reliable diagnosis. The utility of FNAC in an atypical presentation of choroidal melanoma is discussed.