How Is Ocular Melanoma Diagnosed?

The first question many new patients ask me when I give the diagnosis of ocular melanoma is - How do you know it is an eye cancer without performing a biopsy? Listen to my discussion today that features how the eye is a unique place where we can actually see the tumor, unlike if a tumor is hidden within an organ where only scans can tell us what is going on; how diagnosing ocular melanoma requires a skilled clinician who uses their examination tools - both indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy (the miner's headlamp) and the slit lamp microscope - together with photography and ultrasonography to gather additional data that "fits" with the diagnosis of ocular melanoma. Finally, I share the pitfalls and inaccuracies of using biopsy to make the diagnosis. Get your copy of the one-page Ocular Melanoma: Start Here Guide, it will be emailed to you immediately. Welcome to Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma, a guide to understanding everything there is to know about your experience with this rare cancer. Learn through the lens of my knowledge and clinical experience as a physician expert and passionate patient advocate. The more you know about ocular melanoma, the better you will do, and the better you will live. Let's go! For Tara McCannel's resources (including webinar links and link to my book!), visit my website: https://seyhart.com/ocularmelanoma The content shared on the Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided must not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As a listener, you are responsible for your own health-related decisions and must consider consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.  Tara McCannel MD PhD is a an ocular oncologist, vitreoretinal surgeon and co-founder of Seyhart Wellness. She is also the host of the Mind Body MD podcast where she shares her passion for holistic health and wellness.