Choroidal Nevus

A nevus (mole, freckle) can be found on the skin and in the eyes of many humans. It is called a Choroidal Nevus, which is a benign lesion found on routine eye examinations. They are caused by clumping of pigmented cells that are normally found in the back of the eye. They usually do not cause any visual symptoms so most patients are unaware of them. It is believed to be more common in the Caucasian population than in African Americans. A nevus can be a dark or light lesion depending on the amount of pigment. The lesion may also vary in its size and shape. Since a choroidal nevus can turn into a choroidal melanoma, and since choroidal melanomas are more common in sunny areas, it is reasonable to wear ultraviolet blocking sunglasses.

A choroidal nevus rarely requires treatment, but should be observed. Serial photography is typically used to document the size of the choroidal nevus. Depending on the appearance of the nevus, patients should have their eyes examined once to twice a year to check for any change in size. Other clinical signs such as swelling around the nevus, orange pigment, or increase in size may indicate recent growth. If these signs exist, then such tumors should be followed more closely and it is reasonable to have further test performed. These tests may include the use of ultrasound, specialized photography or an intraocular angiogram. These tests are used to monitor the nevus and determine if it may be turning into a malignant (cancerous) lesion. However, the risk of a choroidal nevus developing into a choroidal melanoma is low.

Retina Information

Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Anti-VEGF Treatment for Wet MD

Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Central Serous Retinopathy

Choroidal Nevus

Detached and Torn Retina

Epiretinal Membrane/Macular Pucker

Floaters and Flashes

Fluorescein Angiography