False about malignant melanoma of choroid
**Question:** False about malignant melanoma of choroid
A. Malignant melanoma of choroid is a rare form of the disease
B. Malignant melanoma of choroid primarily affects elderly individuals
C. Malignant melanoma of choroid is a highly aggressive tumor
D. Malignant melanoma of choroid is typically diagnosed through routine eye examination
**Correct Answer:** .
**Core Concept:** Malignant melanoma of choroid is a rare, highly aggressive form of melanoma that originates from the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes in the choroid layer of the eye. Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can also spread to other parts of the body, including the eye.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
Malignant melanoma of choroid is indeed a rare form of melanoma, with an annual incidence estimated at 1.5-2 cases per million people. However, it is not limited to elderly individuals as it can affect any age group, although the risk increases with age. This tumor is highly aggressive, which means it grows rapidly and has the potential to spread to distant organs, leading to significant morbidity and mortality.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. While malignant melanoma of choroid is rare, it is not limited to elderly individuals. It can occur in individuals of all ages, although the risk increases with age.
B. Malignant melanoma of choroid is typically diagnosed through routine eye examination. However, a comprehensive eye examination is essential for early detection, but it is not the sole method of diagnosis. Advanced imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) are also useful in diagnosing and monitoring the progression of malignant melanoma of choroid.
C. Malignant melanoma of choroid is highly aggressive, meaning it grows rapidly and has the potential to spread to distant organs. This aggressive nature is not limited to elderly individuals but can affect people of all ages.
D. Malignant melanoma of choroid is typically diagnosed through routine eye examination, which is essential for early detection. However, diagnosis may also involve advanced imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT).
**Clinical Pearl:** A thorough comprehensive eye examination, including fundoscopy, slit lamp examination, and advanced imaging techniques, are essential for early detection and management of malignant melanoma of choroid. Early diagnosis and treatment lead to better prognosis and survival rates. Patients with a family history of melanoma, increased risk of ultraviolet radiation exposure, or history of ocular trauma should be monitored more frequently.