Ocular Vs. Skin Melanoma

Although they both come from the same basic type of pigmented cell, these tumors are very different.  The fact that they share the same name even confuses some physicians.

“There is a common misconception that ocular melanoma and skin (or cutaneous) melanoma are essentially the same disease and that research of the more prevalent skin disorder will satisfy the needs within the community of physicians treating the ocular variety.  This is not the case.  The two differ in their systemic symptoms, metastatic patterns, and susceptibility to treatment."

                                         Dan Albert, M.D. in Clinical Oncology, 2003
 

< Back | Next - Treatment | 5 >