What should you know about early stage iris melanoma?

It may appear as a new or changing dark spot, a raised area, or an irregular area of iris colour. Some people notice blurred vision, light sensitivity, or a change in the pupil, while others have no symptoms. An eye specialist examines the iris and surrounding structures, measures the lesion, and may use photographs or imaging to understand its depth and behaviour. The diagnosis is not established by appearance alone.

Keep appointments with an ophthalmologist or ocular oncology team so the lesion can be documented and assessed carefully. Depending on its size, position, growth, and effect on vision, options may include close observation, local treatment, or surgical removal. If surgery is proposed, ask how it may affect the iris, pupil, vision, and recovery. General information about [Surgical Excision], [Skin Cancer Surgery], and [Tumour Removal Surgery] may help you understand treatment language, although iris care is specialized.

Contact the eye team promptly for new vision loss, eye pain, persistent redness, flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, or a rapidly changing visible lesion. Urgent symptoms should not wait for a routine surveillance visit. Your team will decide whether further staging or a test such as [Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy] is appropriate; this is not needed for every patient.

Ask where the melanoma is located, whether it is changing, what the examination and imaging show, and which treatment preserves useful vision. Ask how often follow-up is needed and what symptoms should trigger an earlier review.