Metastatic ocular tumors of the anterior segment

Breast cancer is a common neoplasm in women and is the most common cause of intraocular metastatic tumors. These tumors can arise weeks to years after the primary tumor of the breast and typically indicate a poor prognosis for the patient because of the disseminated nature of the disease.

A 57-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer presented with a red, painful right eye and decreased vision in that eye. A large, amelanotic mass was seen in the anterior chamber. A diagnosis of metastatic intraocular tumor was made. The patient was referred to an ophthalmologist specializing in ocular oncology. Unfortunately, the patient died within 1 week.

Treatment of anterior-segment metastatic tumors is aimed at decreasing inflammation and intraocular pressure. A timely referral should be made to an onco-ophthalmologist and general oncologist for further treatment and systemic workup. The patient should be counseled on the severity and poor prognosis of his or her condition.