Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Implantation and Evaluation of Melanoma in the Murine Choroid via Optical Coherence Tomography
Published on: December 2, 2022
[Natural development over 4 years of a macular small choroidal melanoma in a single-eyed patient]
M Fauquembergue1, L Kodjikian, P Chauvel
1Clinique Ophtalmologique Universitaire, Centre Hospitalier de la Croix Rousse, Lyon.
Abstract:
We report the case of a single-eyed patient with a small (2.2 mm thick with largest tumor diameter 7.6 mm) choroidal melanoma involving the entire macular surface with few functional signs. Visual acuity was 20/63. The patient was informed of the side effects and so was followed regularly at the oncology unit over 4 years. During this period, the tumor volume increased fourfold (the thickness reached 4.3 mm and the LTD 10.4 mm), with visual acuity decreasing to 20/250: proton beam therapy was therefore performed. The patient showed no metastasis more than 2 years after the treatment. This unusual case raises the question of small choroidal melanoma management, especially if the patient is single-eyed, in good general health, middle-aged and if the tumor is retrofoveal with just a few functional signs: when, why and who should be treated?
Insights
This case study explores managing small choroidal melanomas in single-eyed patients. Proton beam therapy was effective, showing no metastasis two years post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
Background:
- Choroidal melanoma management in single-eyed patients presents unique challenges.
- Early-stage tumors with minimal functional impact require careful consideration for treatment timing.
Observation:
- A single-eyed patient presented with a small choroidal melanoma (2.2 mm thick, 7.6 mm diameter) affecting the macula.
- Over four years, the tumor quadrupled in size (4.3 mm thick, 10.4 mm diameter), and visual acuity declined from 20/63 to 20/250.
Findings:
- Proton beam therapy was administered due to tumor growth and vision loss.
- The patient remained metastasis-free for over two years post-treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the dilemma of when and how to treat small, asymptomatic choroidal melanomas, particularly in visually impaired individuals.
- Individualized treatment strategies are crucial, balancing tumor characteristics, patient health, and visual function.
