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Choroidal malignant melanoma with early vitreous seeding
W J Dunn1, H M Lambert, M C Kincaid
1Department of Ophthalmology, Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study reports a rare case of choroidal melanoma with retinal extension and vitreous seeding. This finding suggests a potentially more aggressive tumor behavior than previously understood.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Primary choroidal malignant melanoma is a rare ocular tumor.
- Extension through the retina and vitreous seeding are exceptionally uncommon presentations.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old woman presented with a large, amelanotic subretinal mass near the optic disc.
- Preoperative fundus examination revealed vitreous bodies overlying the mass.
- Histopathology confirmed a spindle cell posterior choroidal melanoma with overlying retinal atrophy.
Findings:
- Melanoma cells were observed extending through a discontinuous overlying retina into the vitreous.
- Some melanoma cells surrounded asteroid bodies, altering their appearance.
- This represents the first reported instance of vitreous seeding in choroidal melanoma.
Implications:
- Vitreous seeding in choroidal melanoma may indicate a more aggressive tumor phenotype.
- This finding has potential implications for diagnosis and treatment strategies.
- Further research is warranted to understand the clinical significance of vitreous seeding.