Scleral Thinning after Transscleral Biopsy for Uveal Melanoma Using Lamellar Scleral Flap

The purpose of the study is to describe the clinical history and histopathologic findings of three cases of scleral thinning after lamellar scleral flap, including one case with confirmed extraocular tumor extension.

The medical records and pathology specimens of three patients with scleral thinning after biopsy and plaque brachytherapy and lamellar scleral flap performed during a transscleral biopsy were reviewed.

The first two patients developed scleral thinning and visible pigmentation, but had tumors that were regressing in size on ultrasound. The two patients were followed by serial observation. The third patient exhibited scleral thinning and evidence of tumor growth on ultrasound, raising the suspicion for extraocular tumor extension. Histopathologic examination of the enucleated eye confirmed extrascleral tumor extension and showed necrotic and intact melanoma with associated pigmented macrophages.

Patients with scleral flaps created for biopsy of uveal melanoma are at risk for scleral thinning and extrascleral extension of tumor recurrence through the flap.