2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
4 Ophthalmic Pathology and Intraocular Tumors
Part I: Ophthalmic Pathology
Chapter 8: Sclerax
Degenerations
Melanoma-Associated Spongiform Scleropathy
The sclera may undergo degeneration at the base of a uveal melanoma. This change is typically not apparent clinically, but histologically, it appears as a feathery separation and fragmentation of the scleral collagen fibers. Studies have shown increased amounts of glycosaminoglycans in these areas. The change is postulated to result from activation of proteinases such as matrix metalloproteinase-2 in the sclera and may facilitate scleral extension of uveal melanoma.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 4 - Ophthalmic Pathology and Intraocular Tumors. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.