Melanoma on the Cornea: Risk of Metastatic Disease

Risk of Metastatic Disease

Conjunctival melanoma tends to spread to other adnexal structures and has metastatic potential, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1
Melanoma on the cornea typically presents as a painless, flat or nodular, brown or fleshy-pink lesion, often with enlargement of the lesion, presence of blood vessels, or thickening, as noted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1

Significant UV exposure is a risk factor for conjunctival melanoma, as reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1
Previous history of melanoma increases risk, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1
Previous primary acquired melanosis or Nevus of Ota are predisposing factors, as noted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1
Fair skin that sunburns easily and inability to tan are associated with increased risk, as stated by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 2

Lifetime dermatologic surveillance is recommended for all patients with melanoma due to the risk of metastatic disease, as advised by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 3
The frequency of dermatologic surveillance should be determined individually based on risk factors, according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 3
Skin examination and surveillance at least once a year for life is recommended, as suggested by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 3
For patients with metastatic disease, treatment of the CNS disease usually takes priority to prevent complications, as recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 3