Limbal melanoma

LIMBAL MELANOMA

  • Melanomas may invade the cornea secondarily.
  • These tumors are usually pigmented, occasionally nonpigmented.
  • The dorsolateral quadrant is usually the site of origination.
  • Limbal melanomas occur in 2 age groups of dogs.
  • In the younger group of 2 – 4 years of age, the tumors were invasive.
  • In the adult dogs 8 – 11 years of age, the tumors were stationary.
  • Primary limbal melanomas must be differentiated from external extension of intraocular melanomas.

Treatment

  •  Full thickness corneoscleral grafts are recommended to maintain a functional eye in younger dogs with progressive limbal melanomas.
  •  Grafts of nictitating membrane cartilage with overlying conjunctiva have been used to replace corneal and scleral defects after removal of limbal melanoma. 
  • In aged dogs with non progressive limbal masses, periodic surveillance appears to be adequate.
Last modified: Friday, 23 September 2011, 5:53 AM