If a choroidal nevus worsens and begins to leak fluid or if abnormal blood vessels develop, it is possible to then have a retinal detachment or degeneration in the area leading to some visual loss symptoms or flashing lights. Only an eye doctor using specialized instruments can diagnose and monitor a choroidal nevus. A choroidal nevus is discovered only through a comprehensive eye exam often requiring dilated pupils. In most cases, there are no signs and symptoms of a benign choroidal nevus. The risk of having a choroidal nevus is that it may possibly change into a malignant choroidal melanoma. A choroidal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor and it is potentially sight threatening and lethal. The majority of choroidal melanoma patients are over the age of 50. Whites are 500% more likely to have melanoma than African-Americans and three times more likely than Asians to have choroidal nevi. Choroidal melanoma is more common in whites than in other races. (pigment) producing cells located in the choroid layer of the back of the eye.Ĭhoroidal nevi are relatively common and occur in approximately 6.5% of the Caucasian population and about 3-4% of the general population.
A choroidal nevus is essentially a benign tumor of the choroid composed of melanocytes. Most choroidal nevi are approximately the same size as the optic disk (optic nerve head that enters the eye) and typically exhibit a rounded or oval shape. A choroidal nevus is similar to a large freckle or mole found on the skin. The choroid tissue has the highest concentration of blood flow in the body.Ī choroidal nevus (or benign neoplasm of the choroid) is a grayish-brown pigmented lesion The choroid is the layer around the back part of the eye between the retina and the sclera. A choroidal nevus is a common ocular condition that can evolve into a choroidal melanoma, which can be lethal.