Extraocular extension of malignant melanoma of the uvea

Two patients, each with a large malignant melanoma of the choroid, underwent enucleation of the affected eye. Gross examination of each globe in the pathology laboratory disclosed a substantial area of extrascleral extension of the intraocular neoplasm, although this had not been noted at the time of enucleation. Since subsequent management and the prognosis for survival may be altered by recognition of extrascleral extension, the external surface of all globes that may harbour a malignant neoplasm should be carefully inspected by the surgeon during and immediately after enucleation.