VITREOUS SEEDING OF CHOROIDAL MELANOMA. Issue 4 (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Raval, Vishal; Bowen, Randy C.; Soto, Hansell; Biscotti, Charles; Yeaney, Gabrielle; Sears, Jonathan; Singh, Arun
• Is Part Of: Retina. Volume 41:Issue 4(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: vitreous seeding -- choroidal melanoma -- episcleral brachytherapy -- vitreous biopsy -- histopathology; Retina -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Retinal Diseases; Vitreous Body; 617.735
• DOI: 10.1097/IAE.0000000000002989
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0275-004X

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: To report a case of vitreous seeding in a medium-sized choroidal melanoma and review the literature. Methods: Observational case report and review of literature for pathogenesis, role of vitreous biopsy, and treatment outcomes. Results: A case of 57-year-old man diagnosed with vitreous seeding in the left eye 1 year after episcleral brachytherapy for medium-sized choroidal melanoma. The patient was initially diagnosed to have subretinal and vitreous hemorrhage due to rupture of a retinal artery macroaneurysm for which focal laser and intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections were administered. Over the next 9 months, the vitreous hemorrhage cleared and choroidal melanoma with retinal invasion became evident. One year after brachytherapy, the primary tumor regressed with resolution of surrounding subretinal fluid and hemorrhage. However, gradual decline in the visual acuity from 20/50 to 20/500 with increase of pigmented debris over the retinal surface and in the vitreous cavity was noted. A vitreous biopsy confirmed the presence of viable melanoma cells (epithelioid type), and the eye was enucleated. Histopathology showed microscopic persistence of primary tumor with diffuse vitreous seeding. Conclusion: Vitreous seeding of choroidal melanoma poses a diagnostic and management challenge. Abstract : The authors report a case of vitreous seeding of choroidal melanoma and review the literature to analyze the possible mechanisms of vitreous seeding, potential precipitating factors, and treatment outcomes.