Choroidal Nevus Treatment in Connecticut: Protect Your Eye Health with Expert Care
Like a raised freckle on the skin, nevi can also occur inside your eye. The most common are choroidal nevi, which require close monitoring with a retinal specialist. While most choroidal nevi are harmless and remain stable for years, some can grow into a malignant melanoma. At Retina Consultants, P.C., our vitreoretinal specialists offer advanced retinal care focused on protecting your vision and long-term eye health. Whether you have been referred by your eye doctor or simply want a second opinion from our specialists, we welcome you to our office for expert-guided care.
What is a choroidal nevus?
A choroidal nevus, or eye freckle, is the most common intraocular tumor, affecting about 7-10% of adults. A choroidal nevus forms when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) cluster together in the choroid, creating a dark spot that can vary in size and appearance. Many people never realize they have a choroidal nevus because it often causes no symptoms and is typically discovered during a routine dilated eye exam.
The exact cause of a choroidal nevus is unknown. However, several factors may contribute to its development, including genetics, aging, race, UV exposure, and light-colored eyes. While a choroidal nevus is usually present in childhood, it is usually first detected in adulthood.
Do choroidal nevi have symptoms?
A benign choroidal nevus rarely causes any symptoms. However, in some rare cases, choroidal nevi may cause symptoms, such as:
- Blurred or distorted central or peripheral vision
- Flashes of light
- Floaters
- Visual field changes
Because symptoms may not appear until complications arise, regular comprehensive eye exams are extremely important for detecting retinal abnormalities early.
Can a choroidal nevus become cancerous?
Yes! Just like a mole in your skin can become malignant, a choroidal nevus can turn into a melanoma over time. Warning signs that your choroidal nevus can become cancerous include:
- Orange pigmentation
- The nevus is leaking fluid
- The nevus has a thickness of 2mm or more
The risk of a choroidal nevus developing into a melanoma is 1 in 8,000. However, this doesn’t mean you should ignore the condition. Even seemingly harmless lesions can change over time, often without noticeable symptoms. Regular eye check-ups help monitor changes closely and intervene promptly if needed to protect your vision and overall health.
What are the treatment options for choroidal nevi?
Treatment recommendations depend on whether the nevus remains benign or shows signs of malignancy. For stable lesions, routine monitoring is typically the best approach. Patients may need periodic retinal imaging, usually every few months or annually, depending on risk factors. Your retinal specialist compares your baseline images and examination findings with subsequent evaluations to help determine whether the nevus has changed or remained stable.
If a nevus is suspicious or symptomatic, treatment options may include laser treatment, which addresses complications such as retinal fluid buildup or abnormal blood vessel growth. Your ocular oncologist may recommend radiation therapy or cryotherapy if a nevus develops into choroidal melanoma. These treatments target and control the tumor while preserving as much vision as possible.
Are you concerned with your choroidal nevus?
Receiving a diagnosis involving the retina can feel overwhelming, but expert care can make all the difference. At Retina Consultants, P.C., we provide advanced retinal care through a compassionate, personalized approach. Whether you need diagnosis, monitoring, or treatment for a choroidal nevus, talk to our team today.
To get in touch with our retinal practice, contact us at:
Hartford
Manchester
Cromwell
Farmington
