WHAT IS A NEVUS OF THE CHOROID?
Nevus of the choroid is an area of increased pigmented cells and is equivalent to a mole on the skin. There is tremendous variation in the size and appearance of nevi. The most significant risk is conversion of a nevi into a melanoma.
SHOULD I BE WORRIED IF I HAVE A NEVUS?
Nevi are benign, meaning they cannot harm you, however in rare cases a nevus can change into a melanoma. Close monitoring by a retina specialist for signs the nevus may be changing in size or appearance is necessary at regular intervals.
WHAT ELSE SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT NEVUS OF THE CHOROID?
Photos to document the size and appearance of nevi are required. The risk of a choroidal nevus converting to a choroidal melanoma is approximately 1/8000 persons. The incidence of choroidal melanoma in the United States is 5-6 persons per million.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR A NEVUS?
The majority of cases are observed at regular intervals and no treatment is recommended. In some cases, a choroidal nevus may have features that are suspicious, but not definitive for a choroidal melanoma. In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to obtain a sample of cells.
