eye disorders
Cancers Affecting the Retina
Choroidal metastases
Choroidal metastases are cancers that have spread to the choroid from other parts of the body. Because of its rich blood supply, the choroid is often a place to which cancers from other parts of the body may spread. In women, breast cancer is the most common cause. In men, cancers of the lung and prostate are the most common causes. Often, choroidal metastases cause no symptoms until they are advanced. Symptoms, when they develop, are often loss of vision or symptoms of Detachment of the Retina such as floaters, flashes of light, blurred vision, and a veil or curtain across the field of vision. Vision loss can range from mild to severe. A doctor's examination of the eye Usually ultrasonography Biopsy The diagnosis of choroidal metastases is sometimes made during a routine eye examination with an ophthalmoscope. The diagnosis is aided by Ultrasonography . Confirmation of the diagnosis may involve using a fine needle to remove a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope (biopsy). Chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy Treatment of choroidal metastases depends on the primary cancer and is usually with chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both. The following is an English-language resource that may be useful. Please note that THE MANUAL is not responsible for the content of this resource. National Eye Institute: A resource for learning about eye health (in English and Spanish) for adults and children, as well as access to outreach campaigns. Simply type in the appropriate search term. 