Massive retinal gliosis simulating choroidal melanoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pathology

Background:

• Choroidal melanoma is a common intraocular malignancy.
• Differential diagnosis of pigmented fundus lesions can be challenging.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old woman presented with a pigmented fundus lesion.
• Initial diagnostic tests (32P test, angiography) suggested choroidal melanoma.
• Post-surgical examination revealed massive retinal gliosis.

Findings:

• Massive retinal gliosis can mimic choroidal melanoma clinically and histologically.
• Key differentiating features between gliosis, melanoma, and astrocytic hamartoma are reviewed.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare conditions in differential diagnoses.
• Aids ophthalmologists and pathologists in accurate diagnosis of fundus lesions.
• Improves patient management by avoiding misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.