uveal melanoma

Uveal melanoma is a malignancy arising from melanocytes within the uveal tract of the eye. It is recognized as the most common primary intraocular tumor in the United States and Western Europe. This condition is uncommon, affecting roughly 1 to 9 per 100,000 people, and is most often diagnosed in adulthood. Evaluation typically involves a combination of clinical and imaging studies to determine the characteristics of the tumor.

Patients with uveal melanoma may notice subtle changes in vision, such as blurred vision or the appearance of shadows in their field of view, although many cases are detected during routine ophthalmologic examinations before significant symptoms develop. Because specific characteristic findings are not always apparent, the clinical presentation can vary from patient to patient. Not all individuals experience all features, and severity varies considerably.

The precise genetic basis of uveal melanoma remains under investigation, and no specific gene has been implicated based on the current data. The condition is described as having an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, implying that if a familial predisposition exists, an affected individual may pass on a susceptibility to their offspring. Genetic counseling can help families understand these implications and guide discussions about family planning and potential risks.

Management of uveal melanoma generally involves a multidisciplinary oncology team that may include ophthalmologists, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists. Local treatment options derived from clinical practice include surgical excision of the eye, iridocyclectomy, and tumor resection, as well as radiotherapy and photocoagulation. In addition to these approaches, currently approved targeted therapies include KIMMTRAK (TEBENTAFUSP), an FDA-approved treatment that offers a specialized option for some patients. Patients should discuss treatment options with their healthcare team to determine which therapies may be appropriate for their specific situation.

Outcomes for uveal melanoma vary considerably based on individual tumor characteristics and the timeliness of treatment. With current standards of care, many individuals benefit from modern therapeutic approaches, and overall outcomes have improved over recent years. That severity and progression differ widely between individuals, and outcomes described in medical literature continue to evolve as standards of care improve. Families often find it helpful to connect with specialists experienced in ocular oncology to better understand potential management strategies and long-term outlook.

Uveal melanoma remains an active area of research, with numerous ongoing clinical trials exploring new treatment approaches and strategies. Individuals interested in emerging therapies can search ClinicalTrials.gov or consult their care team about eligibility for these studies.