Choroidal Nevus
A nevus is a “freckle” inside your eye similar to a freckle on your skin. Like a nevus on the skin, choroidal nevus can grow into a melanoma and therefore routine monitoring is essential. Dr. Kurli will obtain retinal photographs and other specialized testing if necessary to monitor these nevi for growth.
Choroidal Melanoma
Choroidal melanoma arises from the blood vessel layer beneath the retina. In North America, 6 out of a million people will be diagnosed with choroidal melanoma each year. It is an aggressive form of cancer and is the most common primary cancer of the eye in adults.
It is important to note that most patients with choroidal melanoma have no symptoms at all. Their tumors are found when they visit their eye doctor for a “routine” eye examination. Though there are several forms of eye and vision-sparing radiation therapies, ophthalmic plaque radiation therapy is the most common and widely used.
Dr. Kurli works with a team of radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and physicists to ensure the best treatment is performed for your cancer. She works closely with your doctors to ensure the cancer is under close surveillance to prevent spread.
Choroidal Metastases
Cancer from elsewhere in the body can spread to the eye and cause a loss of vision. Sometimes, this may be the first sign of cancer in the body. Further specialized testing and imaging may be required. Dr. Kurli will collaborate with you and your oncologist to plan and perform vision-sparing treatments.
Treatments for Retinal Disorders
See our Retinal Disorders page for conditions and treatments.