Study identifies new risk factors for progression of choroidal nevi into melanoma

In addition to recognized risk factors for progression, this study revealed two new risk factors: ultrasonographic hollowness and halo absence.

Researchers retrospective reviewed of 2,514 eyes with choroidal nevi. Melanoma developed in 2 percent of eyes after one year, in 9 percent after five years and in 13 percent after 10 years.

Multivariable analysis of the cohort revealed several risk factors that may predict progression, including tumor thickness greater than 2 mm (P < .001), subretinal fluid (P = .002), symptoms (P = .002), orange pigment (P < .001), tumor margin within 3 mm of the optic disc (P = .001), ultrasonographic hollowness (P < .001) and halo absence (P = .009).

The authors suggested a mnemonic device to help clinicians remember the identified risk factors:

"'To find small ocular melanoma using helpful hints,' representing thickness, fluid, symptoms, orange pigment, margin, ultrasonographic hollowness and halo absence," according to the study.

Because the presence of more than one nevi feature increased the risk of progression to melanoma proportionally, the authors also suggested more rigorous follow-up of patients at increased risk of progression.