Uveal Tumor with Retinal Detachment – Case Report of a Rare Malignancy

Abstract Introduction: Melanoma, a type of tumor originating from melanocytes, can have different anatomic locations. Ocular melanoma represents about 5% of total melanomas and is a rare condition, with an overall incidence rate of 5.1 cases/million/year. The most frequent location of uveal melanoma is the choroid (90%), followed by the ciliary body (6%) and the iris (4%). The most frequent symptoms of choroidal melanoma are blurred vision and photopsia. The therapeutic approach of uveal melanoma can be classified into two main categories: globe preservation treatments and enucleation. Case presentation: We present the case of a male patient diagnosed at the age of 72 years with right choroidal melanoma, who had a preexisting condition of visual impairment due to the presence of right mature cataract. The diagnosis was delayed in the course of the disease, as retinal detachment had already been installed. The patient was treated with local radiotherapy. Conclusion: Uveal melanoma is a malignancy in which a novel therapeutic approach, including magnetic resonance imaging is needed in order to improve the outcome of these patients, preserve vision and prevent systemic extension of the disease.