Long Term Follow-Up Observation in Small Choroidal Melanocytic Tumors

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Small choroidal melanocytic tumors (SCMTs) require careful management due to potential melanoma transformation.
• Long-term outcomes for SCMTs managed conservatively are not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the long-term evolution of SCMTs under observation.
• To determine the rate of transformation into melanoma.
• To assess patient survival rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective single-cohort study of 243 patients with SCMTs (1-3 mm height, 5-10 mm base).
• Initial treatment was observation.
• Melanoma transformation defined by >1 mm growth in height/base within 1-3 months on imaging.

Main Results:

• Mean follow-up was 7.9 years.
• Tumor growth observed in 27 patients; 5, 10, and 15-year growth probabilities were 10%, 14%, and 17%.
• Survival rates at 5 and 10 years were 99% and 97%, with only 3 melanoma metastasis deaths.

Conclusions:

• Observation is a viable treatment for SCMTs, minimizing treatment side effects.
• Most SCMTs do not progress to melanoma.
• Prompt treatment upon detected transformation is crucial; metastatic risk is low.