Uveal Has Spread?

Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma is a cancer that begins in the cells of the uvea. The uvea is the pigmented layer that comprises the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. Uveal melanoma is the most common form of eye cancer, accounting for about 5% of all eye cancers.

How does uveal melanoma spread?

Uveal melanoma can spread in a number of ways:

1. Local invasion: Uveal melanoma can grow and spread into surrounding tissues, such as the sclera, optic nerve, and brain.**

2. Hematogenous spread: Uveal melanoma can spread through the bloodstream to other organs, such as the liver, lungs, and brain.

3. Lymphatic spread: Uveal melanoma can spread through the lymphatic system to lymph nodes in the neck and abdomen.

4. Implantation metastasis: Uveal melanoma cells can implant themselves on the surface of other organs and grow into new tumors.

What are the symptoms of metastatic uveal melanoma?

The symptoms of metastatic uveal melanoma can vary depending on the location of the metastases. Some common symptoms include:

1. Liver metastases: Pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

2..Lung metastases: Chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and weight loss.

3.Brain metastases: Headaches, seizures, vision problems, and changes in personality or behavior.

How is metastatic uveal melanoma treated?

There are a number of treatment options for metastatic uveal melanoma, depending on the location and extent of the metastases. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

What is the prognosis for metastatic uveal melanoma?

The prognosis for metastatic uveal melanoma is generally poor. The average survival time after diagnosis is about 1 year. However, some patients with metastatic uveal melanoma may survive for many years with treatment.