Palpebral Melanoma (Eyelid Melanoma)
Description of the Disease and Clinical Picture
Eyelid melanoma is a malignant neoplasm that originates from melanocytes. This type of tumor exhibits invasive behavior with a high percentage of recurrence and a pronounced metastatic potential. It can be observed as a solid mass, irregularly shaped, darkly colored or sometimes pale. Melanoma is most commonly found at the very edge of the eyelids, where the skin transitions to the mucous membrane. There are two types of melanoma: melanotic (which contains melanin) and amelanotic (which does not contain melanin). For the latter type, histopathological diagnosis is often complicated, and the final diagnosis is obtained through immunocytochemical analyses. Older dogs are more susceptible (average age is 9 years), and the following breeds are affected: Airedale Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Poodle, Rottweiler, and Labrador. It is rarely diagnosed in cats.
 
Therapy
The diagnosis is made by histopathological examination of the tumor and immunocytochemical analyses (for amelanotic melanoma). Therapy is carefully determined, taking into account the stage of the disease (the stage can be: I, II, III, or IV - determined according to the size of the tumor and the resulting metastases). Surgical removal of the tumor is always recommended, along with radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy (vaccines against this tumor have been in use since 2007).
 
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(oculusklinika@gmail.com) in Serbia, Europe to schedule an appointment so your pet
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