What should you know about uveal melanoma cancer?

The uveal tract includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. A tumour in these structures can affect vision, the shape of the pupil, or the appearance of the eye, although some tumours are found during an eye examination before symptoms develop. An ophthalmologist uses a detailed examination and eye imaging to assess the lesion. The team also considers its size, position, eye function, and whether there is evidence of spread when planning care.

Keep specialist appointments and report new visual changes promptly. Treatment is individualised: a small or suitably placed tumour may be treated with plaque brachytherapy, while radiotherapy may be discussed in other situations. Some people need surgery or monitoring, depending on the findings. Ask how treatment may affect sight, eye comfort, follow-up scans, and daily activities. A second specialist opinion can help when the proposed approach is complex.

Seek urgent eye assessment for sudden loss of vision, a curtain-like shadow, severe eye pain, a new fixed pupil change, marked redness with visual change, or an eye injury. Contact the treating team for steadily worsening vision, new flashes or floaters, or symptoms after treatment. Early assessment can distinguish tumour-related changes from retinal, inflammatory, or other eye problems.

Ask where the tumour is located, which imaging has been done, whether biopsy is needed, how treatment could affect vision, what follow-up involves, and which symptoms should trigger an urgent call.