What should you know about corneal melanoma?

Corneal melanoma is an uncommon term for a potentially serious pigmented eye-surface tumour, and a new or changing spot needs urgent assessment by an ophthalmologist. Melanoma develops from pigment-producing cells. The cornea itself normally has no pigment, so a lesion called corneal melanoma may involve nearby eye-surface tissue or represent an imprecise description. A new, enlarging, irregular, bleeding, or symptomatic pigmented area should not be diagnosed from a photograph. An ophthalmologist can examine the lesion and arrange specialist tests.

The clinician will ask when the spot appeared, whether it has changed, and whether there is pain, irritation, light sensitivity, blurred vision, or a visible change in the eye. Examination may map the lesion and assess nearby tissue. If melanoma is confirmed, the team may discuss staging and whether the disease is confined to the eye or has spread. The skin condition Melanoma is related by name but does not identify the eye lesion.

Treatment is individualised. Depending on location, size, depth, and spread, care may involve local tumour removal, specialised eye surgery, radiation-based treatment, or systemic therapy. Options such as Skin Cancer Surgery, Tumour Removal Surgery, or Immunotherapy are considered only after a specialist confirms the diagnosis.

Request prompt ophthalmology review and bring previous eye photographs, reports, and a list of medicines. Do not scratch, biopsy, or apply drops that were not prescribed for this problem. Protect the eye from bright light if it is sensitive, and follow instructions about contact lenses. If melanoma is diagnosed, keep each staging and follow-up appointment so changes can be assessed over time.

Seek same-day medical attention for sudden vision change, severe eye pain, marked redness, new bleeding, a rapidly enlarging spot, or a curtain-like shadow. Emergency care is needed after penetrating injury or chemical exposure. New neurological symptoms, such as weakness, confusion, seizure, or a severe unusual headache, also require emergency assessment; they should never be attributed to the eye lesion without evaluation.

Where exactly is the lesion, and what diagnoses are being considered? What examination or biopsy information is needed? Has the tumour been staged, and which specialists are involved? What treatment is intended to protect vision and control the tumour? How often will I need Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment, and which new symptoms should I report?