Ultrasonographic features of choroidal malignant melanomas
D. G. Fuller, W. B. Snyder, W. L. Hutton and A. Vaiser
In a 12-month period 26 eyes were enucleated after an ultrasonographic
diagnosis was made of malignant melanoma of the choroid. Histologic
features of the tumors were reviewed. The ultrasonographic diagnosis was
correct in 100% (26/26) of enucleated eyes. Spontaneous vascular movement
(SVM) was identified by standardized A-scan echography in 69% (18/26) of
the tumors. Contact B-scan ultrasonography demonstrated choroidal
excavation in 65% (17/26) of the melanomas. During the 12-month study
period, choroidal excavation was also demonstrated in cases of metastatic
choroidal tumors, hemangiomas of the choroid, and long-standing choroidal
nevi. The standardized A-scan finding of SVM is a compelling sign in the
diagnosis of choroidal malignant melanoma. In contrast, the B-scan finding
of choroidal excavation is a less useful sign since it may also be seen in
various other ocular lesions.
