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PUVA treatment and choroidal malignant melanoma
G Haciyakupoğlu1, I Varinli, H R Memişoğlu
1Department of Ophthalmology, Cukurova University, Adana, Turkey.
Acta Ophthalmologica
|December 1, 1993
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of rapidly progressing choroidal melanoma in a teenager treated with methoxy psoralen + Ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy. It suggests PUVA may be a potential risk factor for uveal melanoma development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Psoriasis vulgaris is a chronic skin condition often treated with methoxy psoralen + Ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy.
- PUVA therapy is a known risk factor for cutaneous (skin) melanoma.
- Uveal melanoma is a rare but serious malignancy of the eye.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old male undergoing PUVA therapy for psoriasis developed a rapidly progressing choroidal melanoma.
- The tumor was detected seven months into therapy and rapidly enlarged over 20 days.
- The patient ultimately required enucleation (eye removal) due to the tumor's progression.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of choroidal melanoma in a patient treated with PUVA therapy.
- The rapid progression suggests a potential link between PUVA and uveal melanoma development.
- The findings raise concerns about the oncogenic potential of PUVA therapy beyond the skin.
Implications:
- This case highlights the need for increased ophthalmologic surveillance in patients receiving PUVA therapy.
- Further research is warranted to investigate the potential role of PUVA in uveal melanoma pathogenesis.
- Clinicians should consider this association when discussing risks and benefits of PUVA therapy.