Uveal prolapse following cataract extraction simulating melanoma

Abstract

Prolapsed uveal tissue through a cataract incision can simulate any pigmented epibulbar mass, including conjunctival melanoma, extraocular extension of a ciliary body or choroidal melanoma, and pigmented squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva. The authors describe an 88-year-old woman who presented with an enlarging pigmented epibulbar mass on the left eye. Although the lesion closely simulated a conjunctival melanoma or extraocular extension of a uveal melanoma, closer evaluation revealed thin uveal tissue extending through partial wound dehiscence from cataract surgery that was performed 3 years earlier. The lesion was consistent with prolapsed uveal tissue through a cataract wound masquerading as a melanoma. Therefore, uveal prolapse should be considered in the differential diagnosis of conjunctival melanoma or extraocular extension of uveal melanoma.