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Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing
Published on: May 5, 2022
Iris melanoma presenting as childhood glaucoma
Briana C Gapsis1, Nichelle A Warren1, Matthew J Nutaitis1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Storm Eye Institute, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
Insights
This study details a rare pediatric iris melanoma case, highlighting early detection and treatment with Iodine-125 plaque brachytherapy. Prompt management is crucial for reducing local progression and metastasis risks in pediatric uveal melanoma.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Medical Case Study
Background:
- Iris melanoma is a rare ocular tumor, particularly in pediatric populations.
- Early diagnosis and management are critical for favorable outcomes.
- Pediatric uveal melanoma presents unique challenges in treatment and monitoring.
Observation:
- A 7-year-old female presented with pupillary abnormalities, progressing to iris changes by age 9.
- At 11, she had elevated intraocular pressure and optic nerve cupping due to a pigmented iris lesion invading the angle.
- Trans-corneal fine needle aspirate biopsy confirmed malignant iris melanoma.
Findings:
- The pediatric patient was treated with Iodine-125 plaque brachytherapy for the iris melanoma.
- Management of associated glaucoma required careful consideration of tumor-specific factors.
- Early identification and intervention are key to preventing local tumor progression.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of vigilance for rare pediatric ocular tumors.
- Effective treatment strategies for pediatric iris melanoma require a multidisciplinary approach.
- Addressing both the tumor and secondary glaucoma is vital for preserving vision and preventing metastasis.
Purpose:
To describe the natural history and management of a rare case of iris melanoma in a pediatric patient.
Observations:
A Caucasian female presented with left pupillary abnormalities at age 7, progressive iris changes at age 9, and markedly elevated intraocular pressure with advanced optic nerve cupping at 11 years of age. She was found to have a pigmented lesion overlying her iris and invading her angle. Trans-corneal fine needle aspirate biopsy demonstrated malignant melanoma of the iris. The patient subsequently underwent Iodine-125 plaque brachytherapy for the tumor.
Conclusions:
and Importance: Early identification and treatment of iris melanoma may be associated with decreased risk of local progression and metastatic disease. Treatment of glaucoma in conjunction with uveal melanoma is complicated by tumor specific considerations, including treatment of the tumor and prevention of metastasis.
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