Introduction

  • Uveal melanoma are the most common intraocular tumors.
  • The iris is the least likely location for a uveal melanoma to arise (2-5%).
  • Iris melanomas have younger onset than other uveal melanomas (average 46 years old).
  • Iris melanomas have been on the rise, likely due to UV ray exposure, and more likely from the clock hours of 5 to 7 o’clock.
  • Amelanotic iris nevi are very rare, with amelanotic iris melanomas being even less common.
  • In one study, 8% of iris nevi progressed into iris melanomas.
  • 17% of nevi vs. 40% of melanomas affect the angle.