Melanoma eye cancer pictures: what images can and cannot show

Images may show a pigmented area on the iris, a lesion inside the eye seen through an examination, or changes around the eye. Lighting, camera settings and natural variation can make a harmless mark look alarming. A photograph cannot show the full depth, movement or internal structures that an ophthalmologist evaluates.

Possible symptoms include blurred vision, flashes, new floaters, a missing part of the visual field or a visible change in the iris. These symptoms have many possible causes. They should be assessed rather than matched to an online picture.

Arrange an ophthalmology appointment for a new pigmented spot, a visible change in the iris, or persistent visual symptoms. Do not delay because an image seems different from yours, and do not rely on a phone photograph to monitor a symptom that is worsening.

The specialist may examine the front and back of the eye, measure a lesion, photograph it for comparison, and use ultrasound or other tests when appropriate. If melanoma is suspected, the team explains staging and treatment choices; a skin lesion and an eye tumour are assessed differently.

Seek same-day urgent eye care for sudden loss of vision, a curtain-like shadow, severe eye pain, marked redness, or new flashes with many floaters. Contact an eye specialist promptly for a persistent new spot, gradual visual change or a new area missing from your field of vision.

Ask where the spot is located, whether it has changed, which tests are needed, and whether comparison photographs are useful. Ask what symptoms require urgent contact and whether the finding needs review by an ocular oncology team.