What is a uveal melanoma ?
Uveal melanoma is a rare malignant (tumerous) cancer, affecting seven people in every million each year. It develops from cells called melanocytes, which are found in the uvea (the middle layer of tissue in the wall of the eyeball). The uveal tract is made up of the choroid, ciliary body and iris.
What are the symptoms of a uveal melanoma?
For some people there may not be any symptoms and the tumour is found during a routine eye test. For others, it can cause visual disturbances such as flashing lights, blurred vision or a shadow in one eye.
What causes uveal melanoma?
Normal eye anatomy
There is no known cause of uveal melanoma and it is not related to sun exposure. However, uveal melanoma is more common in those who are fair skinned and have grey/blue eyes. The average age at which an ocular melanomadevelops is 55-60 years old. If diagnosed in younger patients, there may be an association with atypical benign moles or skin melanoma.
Who can I speak to if I have any further questions?
If you have any problems or queries, Moorfields ocular oncology clinical nurse specialists are available to answer any questions and talk to you about your treatment. You can contact them on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, during office hours. If they are not available to take your call, please leave a message and they will call back when possible.
Moorfields ocular oncology appointments:
- New appointments: 020 7521 4648
- Follow-up appointments:020 7566 2347, option 3 for oncology
Moorfields ocular oncology secretaries:
- 020 7253 3411 ext. 4872 / 2267
Uveal melanoma treatment is available at Moorfields Private
You can self-fund or use private medical insurance to fund your treatment.