Melanoma and eyes: what to know

A suspicious spot may occur on an eyelid, around the eye, or on nearby facial skin. Melanoma can also arise from pigment cells inside the eye, although a visual symptom alone does not identify its cause. Blurred vision, flashes, floaters, pain, redness, or a dark spot can result from several eye conditions. An eye specialist can inspect the eye, while a dermatologist assesses the skin and any changing lesion. If melanoma has spread elsewhere, the medical team may also consider staging tests.

Arrange an eye examination for a new or changing pigmented mark near the eye, unexplained visual change, or persistent eye discomfort. Avoid picking at a lesion or delaying review because it is small. Bring details about when it changed and any photographs that show its earlier appearance. Depending on the findings, care may involve Surgical Excision, Skin Cancer Surgery, or broader melanoma treatment such as Immunotherapy. A clinician can explain whether Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy or other staging is relevant.

Seek urgent care for sudden loss of vision, a curtain-like shadow, severe eye pain, a sudden cluster of flashes or floaters, new double vision, or weakness or confusion alongside visual symptoms. These signs can reflect an eye or neurological emergency and should not be attributed to melanoma without examination. Contact your cancer team promptly if a known melanoma is followed by a persistent new visual change.

Ask whether the lesion needs a dermatologist, ophthalmologist, or both; what examination is planned; and whether a biopsy or imaging is needed. Discuss how treatment could affect the eyelid, tear production, appearance, or vision, how quickly you should report a change, and how follow-up will be organised.