Choroidal nevus: a review of prevalence, features, genetics, risks, and outcomes

Advances in multimodal imaging for diagnosis of pigmented ocular fundus lesions

Pigmented ocular fundus lesions can range from benign to malignant. While observation is reasonable for asymptomatic benign lesions, early recognition of tumours that are vision or life threatening is critical for long-term prognosis. With recent advances and increased accessibility of multimodal imaging, it is important that providers understand how to best use these tools to detect tumours that require early referral to subspecialty centres. This review aims to provide an overview of pigmented ocular fundus lesions and their defining characteristics using multimodal imaging. We cover the spectrum of pigmented ocular fundus lesions, including freckle and focal aggregates of normal or near-normal uveal melanocytes, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hyperplasia, congenital hypertrophy of the RPE, RPE hamartoma associated with familial adenomatous polyposis, congenital simple hamartoma of the RPE, combined hamartoma of the retina and RPE (congenital hypertrophy of the RPE), choroidal nevus, melanocytosis, melanocytoma, melanoma, adenoma, and RPE adenocarcinoma. We describe key diagnostic features using multimodal imaging modalities of ultra-widefield fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography (OCT), enhanced-depth imaging OCT, ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and OCT angiography (OCTA), with particular attention to diagnostic features that could be missed on fundus examination alone. Finally, we review what is on the horizon, including applications of artificial intelligence. Through skilled application of current and emerging imaging technologies, earlier detection of sight- and life-threatening melanocytic ocular fundus tumours can lead to improved patient prognosis.

Naevi Characterization Using Hyperspectral Imaging: A Pilot Study

PURPOSE

The prevalence of choroidal naevi is common and has been found to be up to 10%. Little is known regarding the optical properties of choroidal naevi. A novel hyperspectral eye fundus camera was used to investigate choroidal naevi's optical density spectra in the retina.

METHODS

In an ophthalmology clinic setting, patients with choroidal naevi were included in the study. Visual acuity and pressure were tested. Following mydriatics, optical coherence tomography and fundus photography were taken as a reference, after which a hyperspectral image with 12 nm spectral resolution at 450-700 nm was taken. The optical density spectra was measured across the area of the naevus.

RESULTS

Nine patients with 11 naevi were examined. The visual acuity was not affected by any of the naevi. All the naevi were flat as measured either with the optical coherence tomography and/or on inspection, and only one naevi had a risk factor (orange pigmentation). The Wasserstein distance between the background and the naevi was higher at 695 nm compared to 555 nm (p = .002). The naevi could be grouped into three clusters based on the extracted optical density spectra.

CONCLUSION

Choroidal naevi are better visible in longer wavelengths compared to shorter wavelengths. This finding can be used to contour and follow choroidal naevi. Choroidal naevi expose different optical density spectra that can be grouped into three different clusters. One of these clusters has an optical density spectra resembling the absorption spectra of lipofuscin, which may indicate the content of this pigment.

Colour fusion effect on deep learning classification of uveal melanoma

BACKGROUND

Reliable differentiation of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi is crucial to guide appropriate treatment, preventing unnecessary procedures for benign lesions and ensuring timely treatment for potentially malignant cases. The purpose of this study is to validate deep learning classification of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi, and to evaluate the effect of colour fusion options on the classification performance.

METHODS

A total of 798 ultra-widefield retinal images of 438 patients were included in this retrospective study, comprising 157 patients diagnosed with UM and 281 patients diagnosed with choroidal naevus. Colour fusion options, including early fusion, intermediate fusion and late fusion, were tested for deep learning image classification with a convolutional neural network (CNN). F1-score, accuracy and the area under the curve (AUC) of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were used to evaluate the classification performance.

RESULTS

Colour fusion options were observed to affect the deep learning performance significantly. For single-colour learning, the red colour image was observed to have superior performance compared to green and blue channels. For multi-colour learning, the intermediate fusion is better than early and late fusion options.

CONCLUSION

Deep learning is a promising approach for automated classification of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi. Colour fusion options can significantly affect the classification performance.

Pediatric orbital lesions: ocular pathologies

Orbital pathologies can be broadly classified as ocular, extra-ocular soft-tissue (non-neoplastic and neoplastic), osseous, and traumatic. In part 1 of this orbital series, the authors will discuss the differential diagnosis and key imaging features of pediatric ocular pathologies. These include congenital and developmental lesions (microphthalmos, anophthalmos, persistent fetal vasculature, coloboma, morning glory disc anomaly, retinopathy of prematurity, Coats disease), optic disc drusen, infective and inflammatory lesions (uveitis, toxocariasis, toxoplasmosis), and ocular neoplasms (retinoblastoma, retinal hamartoma, choroidal melanoma, choroidal nevus). This pictorial review provides a practical approach to the imaging work-up of these anomalies with a focus on ocular US as the first imaging modality and additional use of CT and/or MRI for the evaluation of intracranial abnormalities. The characteristic imaging features of the non-neoplastic mimics of retinoblastoma, such as persistent fetal vasculature and Coats disease, are also highlighted.

A Review of Pediatric Ophthalmic Tumors

Tumors of the eye, orbit, and ocular adnexa can arise in the pediatric population. These entities can be both vision- and life-threatening and may be associated with systemic disease. Given their relative rarity, pediatricians must be aware of these conditions and understand what findings warrant immediate referral to an ophthalmologist for initiation of further testing. We aimed to review these conditions and highlight clinical features to promote awareness and expedite diagnosis. Tumors are subdivided into the following categories for review: anterior tumors of the eyelid and ocular surface, orbital tumors, and intraocular tumors.

Integrating a Fundus Camera with High-Frequency Ultrasound for Precise Ocular Lesion Assessment

Ultrasound A-scan is an important tool for quantitative assessment of ocular lesions. However, its usability is limited by the difficulty of accurately localizing the ultrasound probe to a lesion of interest. In this study, a transparent LiNbO3 single crystal ultrasound transducer was fabricated, and integrated with a widefield fundus camera to guide the ultrasound local position. The electrical impedance, phase spectrum, pulse-echo performance, and optical transmission spectrum of the ultrasound transducer were validated. The novel fundus camera-guided ultrasound probe was tested for in vivo measurement of rat eyes. Anterior and posterior segments of the rat eye could be unambiguously differentiated with the fundus photography-guided ultrasound measurement. A model eye was also used to verify the imaging performance of the prototype device in the human eye. The prototype shows the potential of being used in the clinic to accurately measure the thickness and echogenicity of ocular lesions in vivo.

Pseudomelanoma diagnosis in a tertiary ophthalmologic centre in Spain

OBJECTIVE

To determine the types and frequency of lesions that can be misdiagnosed as choroidal or ciliary body melanomas (posterior uveal tract melanoma [PUM]).

METHODS

This is a retrospective, descriptive study examining data from patients referred to Hospital La Paz in Madrid with the diagnosis of possible PUM between January 2005 and March 2020. All patients referred for PUM were studied. In collaboration with an oncology-specialized ophthalmologic centre, each patient underwent a full ophthalmic examination, ultrasonography, and optical coherence tomography, with agreed clinical criteria used to differentiate melanomas from pseudomelanomas.

RESULTS

In our cohort of 715 patients, 48.9% had pseudomelanomas. Thirty-five different conditions were misdiagnosed as melanomas. The 5 most common conditions were choroidal nevus (40.5%), peripheral exudative hemorrhagic chorioretinopathy (12%), choroidal hemangioma (10.5%), choroidal metastasis (8%), and age-related macular degeneration (4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Altering the diagnosis and changing the treatment and prognosis for patients can be difficult for a referral centre. Herein we present the largest European cohort investigated and highlight the importance of identifying the correct diagnosis to prevent mistreatment and possible overtreatment. These misdiagnoses can have an emotional effect on patients and their families, which could be avoided with a correct diagnosis. We analyze the most common pseudomelanoma diagnoses to help physicians better diagnose patients in their care.

Quantitative Biomarkers Derived from a Novel, Contrast-Free Ultrasound, High-Definition Microvessel Imaging for Differentiating Choroidal Tumors

Angiogenesis has an essential role in the de novo evolution of choroidal melanoma as well as choroidal nevus transformation into melanoma. Differentiating early-stage melanoma from nevus is of high clinical importance; thus, imaging techniques that provide objective information regarding tumor microvasculature structures could aid accurate early detection. Herein, we investigated the feasibility of quantitative high-definition microvessel imaging (qHDMI) for differentiation of choroidal tumors in humans. This new ultrasound-based technique encompasses a series of morphological filtering and vessel enhancement techniques, enabling the visualization of tumor microvessels as small as 150 microns and extracting vessel morphological features as new tumor biomarkers. Distributional differences between the malignant melanomas and benign nevi were tested on 37 patients with choroidal tumors using a non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and statistical significance was declared for biomarkers with p-values < 0.05. The ocular oncology diagnosis was choroidal melanoma (malignant) in 21 and choroidal nevus (benign) in 15 patients. The mean thickness of benign and malignant masses was 1.70 ± 0.40 mm and 3.81 ± 2.63 mm, respectively. Six HDMI biomarkers, including number of vessel segments (p = 0.003), number of branch points (p = 0.003), vessel density (p = 0.03), maximum tortuosity (p = 0.001), microvessel fractal dimension (p = 0.002), and maximum diameter (p = 0.003) exhibited significant distributional differences between the two groups. Contrast-free HDMI provided noninvasive imaging and quantification of microvessels of choroidal tumors. The results of this pilot study indicate the potential use of qHDMI as a complementary tool for characterization of small ocular tumors and early detection of choroidal melanoma.

CHOROIDAL NEVUS ASSOCIATED WITH VITELLIFORM DEPOSITION IN A PATIENT WITH AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT BEST DYSTROPHY

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

To describe the clinical, optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus autofluorescence and ultrasound findings of a patient with a choroidal nevus actively exuding vitelliform material in the setting of autosomal dominant Best dystrophy (BD).

METHODS

The patient's clinical course was followed over time with ophthalmic examinations and multimodal imaging.

RESULTS

A 71-year-old male patient with BD was referred for evaluation of a choroidal nevus in the right eye. Dilated fundoscopic examination showed a small pigmented choroidal nevus in the temporal periphery. Over a 3-year period, the nevus developed progressive deposition of vitelliform material along its inferior border. Meanwhile, OCT and fundus photography showed only slight growth. Ultrasound showed no change in height; basal measurements were confounded by the increased vitelliform deposits. Genetic testing confirmed a heterozygous mutation in the BEST1 gene and electrophysiology was consistent with BD.

CONCLUSIONS

Dysfunction of the retinal pigment epithelium associated with BD may cause novel presentations of other conditions such as choroidal nevi. The implication for malignant transformation of a choroidal nevus associated with vitelliform deposit accumulation in this context is unknown.

Predicting Malignant Transformation of Choroidal Nevi Using Machine Learning

Objective

This study aims to assess a machine learning (ML) algorithm using multimodal imaging to accurately identify risk factors for uveal melanoma (UM) and aid in the diagnosis of melanocytic choroidal tumors.

Subjects and Methods

This study included 223 eyes from 221 patients with melanocytic choroidal lesions seen at the eye clinic of the University of Illinois at Chicago between 01/2010 and 07/2022. An ML algorithm was developed and trained on ultra-widefield fundus imaging and B-scan ultrasonography to detect risk factors of malignant transformation of choroidal lesions into UM. The risk factors were verified using all multimodal imaging available from the time of diagnosis. We also explore classification of lesions into UM and choroidal nevi using the ML algorithm.

Results

The ML algorithm assessed features of ultra-widefield fundus imaging and B-scan ultrasonography to determine the presence of the following risk factors for malignant transformation: lesion thickness, subretinal fluid, orange pigment, proximity to optic nerve, ultrasound hollowness, and drusen. The algorithm also provided classification of lesions into UM and choroidal nevi. A total of 115 patients with choroidal nevi and 108 patients with UM were included. The mean lesion thickness for choroidal nevi was 1.6 mm and for UM was 5.9 mm. Eleven ML models were implemented and achieved high accuracy, with an area under the curve of 0.982 for thickness prediction and 0.964 for subretinal fluid prediction. Sensitivity/specificity values ranged from 0.900/0.818 to 1.000/0.727 for different features. The ML algorithm demonstrated high accuracy in identifying risk factors and differentiating lesions based on the analyzed imaging data.

Conclusions

This study provides proof of concept that ML can accurately identify risk factors for malignant transformation in melanocytic choroidal tumors based on a single ultra-widefield fundus image or B-scan ultrasound at the time of initial presentation. By leveraging the efficiency and availability of ML, this study has the potential to provide a non-invasive tool that helps to prevent unnecessary treatment, improve our ability to predict malignant transformation, reduce the risk of metastasis, and potentially save patient lives.

Choroidal Nevus Features Associated with Subspecialty Referral

OBJECTIVE

To identify choroidal nevus features associated with referral to a retina or ocular oncology subspecialist.

DESIGN

Population-based retrospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

Patients diagnosed with choroidal nevus.

METHODS

Population-based retrospective cohort study of residents of Olmsted County, Minnesota, with an incident diagnosis of choroidal nevus from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2015 using the Rochester Epidemiology Project, a medical record linkage system. Tumor features and patient demographics associated with referral to a retina or ocular oncology subspecialist were assessed. Wilcoxon rank sum test, chi-square test, and Fisher exact test were used for statistical analysis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Tumor features and patient demographics associated with referral to subspecialty care.

RESULTS

There were 826 incident diagnoses of choroidal nevus, of which 88 cases (11%) were referred, with highest level of referral being retina in 29 cases (33%) and ocular oncology in 59 cases (67%). None of the analyzed demographic features were associated with choroidal nevus referral to subspecialty care. Tumor features associated with referral (vs. not referred) included greater mean basal diameter (4.6 mm vs. 2.4 mm, P < 0.001), greater mean tumor thickness (0.7 mm vs. 0.1 mm, P < 0.001), greater distance to optic disc (6.9 mm vs. 3.4 mm, P = 0.02), halo around nevus (5.7% vs. 0.4%, P < 0.001), and drusen on OCT (51% vs. 25%, P = 0.002). Presence of orange pigment (8% vs. 0%, P = 0.14), subretinal fluid (9% vs. 2.5%, P = 0.09), and low internal reflectivity on A-scan (7.7% vs. 0%, P = 1.00) were not found more frequently in the subspecialty referral group.

CONCLUSIONS

Greater basal diameter and mean tumor thickness of choroidal nevus were associated with referral to retina or ocular oncology. However, several features associated with increased risk of malignant transformation were not associated with subspecialty referral. These findings highlight the importance of educating eye care providers about high-risk tumor features associated with choroidal nevus transformation to melanoma. In the primary eye care setting where not all multimodal imaging may be available, we encourage color photography and OCT with referral for any features of basal diameter > 5 mm, presence of subretinal fluid, or thickness too large for capture by enhanced-depth imaging OCT.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S)

The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Color Fusion Effect on Deep Learning Classification of Uveal Melanoma

Background

Reliable differentiation of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi is crucial to guide appropriate treatment, preventing unnecessary procedures for benign lesions and ensuring timely treatment for potentially malignant cases. The purpose of this study is to validate deep learning classification of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi, and to evaluate the effect of color fusion options on the classification performance.

Methods

A total of 798 ultra-widefield retinal images of 438 patients were included in this retrospective study, comprising 157 patients diagnosed with UM and 281 patients diagnosed with choroidal nevus. Color fusion options, including early fusion, intermediate fusion and late fusion, were tested for deep learning image classification with a convolutional neural network (CNN). Specificity, sensitivity, F1-score, accuracy, and the area under the curve (AUC) of a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were used to evaluate the classification performance. The saliency map visualization technique was used to understand the areas in the image that had the most influence on classification decisions of the CNN.

Results

Color fusion options were observed to affect the deep learning performance significantly. For single-color learning, the red color image was observed to have superior performance compared to green and blue channels. For multi-color learning, the intermediate fusion is better than early and late fusion options.

Conclusion

Deep learning is a promising approach for automated classification of uveal melanoma and choroidal nevi, and color fusion options can significantly affect the classification performance.

Population-based incidence of intraocular tumours in Olmsted County, Minnesota

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To determine population-based incidence of intraocular tumours in Olmsted County, Minnesota.

METHODS

Record review of the Rochester Epidemiology Project medical record linkage system from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2015 for patient demographics, tumour type by clinical diagnosis and presence or absence of confirmation by histopathology. The incidence rate of any intraocular tumour and of each tumour type was calculated per million person-years. Poisson regression analysis was used to analyse changes in incidence over time.

RESULTS

There were 948 patients diagnosed with intraocular tumours resulting in an age-adjusted and sex-adjusted incidence rate of 727.5 per million (95% CI: 680.8 to 774.2, p<0.05). Most tumours were benign (953, 98%). Of the benign lesions, melanocytic lesions were the majority (942, 97%), with adjusted incidence rates of 646.9 (95% CI: 602.8 to 691.1) for choroidal nevus and 55.8 (95% CI: 43.2 to 64.8) for iris nevus. Malignant lesions were rare (16, 2%) with 13 cases of choroidal melanoma and 1 case each of iris melanoma, retinal leukaemic infiltration and metastasis. The adjusted incidence rate for choroidal melanoma was 7.1 (95% CI: 2.5 to 11.8).

CONCLUSION

In a population-based setting, most intraocular tumours are benign and melanocytic. Although malignant lesions are less common, it is important to remain vigilant with appropriate monitoring given the potential for vision loss and life-threatening malignancy.

Retromode Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscopy for Choroidal Nevi: A Preliminary Study

The purpose of the present study was to document pathological findings on retromode imaging in choroidal nevi and evaluate its diagnostic validity, using the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope Nidek Mirante (cSLO). A total of 41 choroidal nevi from 41 patients were included. All patients underwent multicolor fundus (mCF), infrared reflectance (IR), green fundus autofluorescence (FAF), dark-field (DF) and retromode (RM) imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans. We investigated retromode images to evaluate choroidal nevus features by comparing the results with those of mCF, IR, FAF, DF and OCT. In 100% of available images, retromode scanning laser ophthalmoscopy was able to detect choroidal nevi with a characteristic "hypo-retro-reflective" pattern, even the cases not visible on mCF, IR and FAF images. It also made it possible to delineate the margins of lesions with the highest rate of sharpness and accuracy among the imaging modalities examined. These findings seem to demonstrate how RM-SLO is an innovative diagnostic tool to detect and follow up choroidal nevi in a fast, reliable and non-invasive way.

Visual outcomes of macular melanocytic lesions after early or delayed proton beam therapy

PURPOSE

During their initial management, some macular melanocytic lesions can be closely monitored to wait for a documented growth before advocating a treatment by irradiation. However, the visual outcomes of this strategy have not yet been assessed. This study compares the visual outcomes of macular melanocytic lesions that underwent delayed proton beam therapy (PBT) after an initial observation to those treated early.

METHODS

A total of 162 patients with suspicious melanocytic lesions whose margins were located within 3 mm of the fovea were recruited from two French ocular oncology centers.

RESULTS

Overall, 82 patients treated with PBT within 4 months after the initial visit (early PBT group) were compared to 24 patients treated with delayed PBT (delayed PBT group) and 56 patients not treated with PBT (observation group). Visual acuity was not significantly different between baseline and last visit in the observation group (p = 0.325). Between baseline and last visit, the median [IQR] loss in visual acuity was significant in both the early (0.7 [0.2; 1.8], p < 0.001) and the delayed (0.5 [0.2; 1.5], p < 0.001) PBT groups. After irradiation, there was no significant difference between the early and delayed PBT groups for visual loss (p = 0.575), diameter reduction (p = 0.190), and thickness lowering (p = 0.892). In multivariate analysis, history of diabetes mellitus and Bruch's membrane rupture remained significantly associated with greater visual loss (p = 0.036 and p = 0.002, respectively).

CONCLUSION

For small lesions in which there is no clear diagnosis of malignant melanoma, an initial close monitoring to document tumor growth does not impact visual prognosis, despite the potential complications associated with the untreated tumor. However, the survival should remain the main outcome of the treatment of these lesions.

[OCT classification of choroidal nevi]

Choroidal nevi (CN) are commonly divided into non-suspicious (stable) and suscpicious (progressive). However, there are still no clear data on OCT patterns of nevi progression, their transformation into initial melanomas.

PURPOSE

The study aims to determine the types of OCT patterns of CN and to evaluate their prognostic value.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 50 patients with CN (53 nevi). The height of 19 nevi evaluated with ultrasonography was 1.33±0.43 mm, diameter - 5.47±1.68 mm.

RESULTS

CN is an area of local increase in reflectivity of the choroid; its widening and elevation of the tomographic section were observed in 72% of nevi. In more than half of all cases a distinct hyperreflective border was revealed between the CN and adjacent choroid. In two thirds of all cases the choriocapillaris layer was preserved and visualized mainly along the edge of lesion. Analysis of OCT scans showed distinct differences, which allowed designation of four OCT types of CN: 1) nevi with typical OCT pattern; 2) nevi with changes in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE); 3) nevi with neuroepithelial detachment; 4) nevi with atypical OCT pattern.

CONCLUSION

Based on the analysis of OCT images of the determined types of nevi, it can be assumed that all of them initially had typical OCT pattern. With enlargement of the nevi and increase in the duration of its presence in the choroid, dystrophic processes in the adjacent retina and changes in RPE begin to occur. Disturbed pumping ability of the damaged RPE results in disruption of the trophism of adjacent retina, which leads to development of atrophic changes. Nevi with atypical OCT pattern should be considered as a sign of long-term benign process in the choroid that will cause atrophic changes in the choroid and adjacent retina, while nevi with changes in RPE and with neuroepithelial detachment - as a risk factor for transition to choroidal melanoma.

Prevalence of choroidal nevi in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy

Background

A number of articles report the association of polypoidal lesions and choroidal nevi; however, the relationship between choroidal nevi and pachychoroidal disorders has not been studied.

Objectives

To study the prevalence of choroidal nevi in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) patients and to elucidate potential differences in the clinical characteristics of CSCR in patients with and without choroidal nevi.

Design

Case-control study.

Methods

This study included a retrospective analysis of medical records and multimodal imaging data of CSCR patients and a prospective evaluation of the prevalence of the choroidal nevi in age- and sex-matched healthy controls. All participants received comprehensive ophthalmic examination and multimodal imaging including infrared scanning laser ophthalmoscopy in dark-field mode to detect choroidal nevi in the central 40° × 60° region.

Results

A total of 199 CSCR patients (160 males and 39 females, 47.9 ± 9.4 years) and 184 age-matched healthy individuals (139 males and 45 females, 44.8 ± 12.5 years) were included. Choroidal nevi were detected in 24 (12.1%) CSCR patients and 10 (5.4%) healthy controls (p = 0.01). CSCR patients with choroidal nevi had statistically significantly higher subfoveal choroidal thickness, lower best-corrected visual acuity, and lower central retinal thickness (p < 0.05) than CSCR patients without choroidal nevi. The odds ratio for the presence of chronic CSCR in patients with choroidal nevi was 27.0 (95% CI: 3.1-231.9, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

The prevalence of choroidal nevi among patients with CSCR is higher than in age- and sex-matched healthy population. Choroidal nevi may be associated with chronic CSCR.

Feasibility of Automated Segmentation of Pigmented Choroidal Lesions in OCT Data With Deep Learning

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of automated segmentation of pigmented choroidal lesions (PCLs) in optical coherence tomography (OCT) data and compare the performance of different deep neural networks.

Methods

Swept-source OCT image volumes were annotated pixel-wise for PCLs and background. Three deep neural network architectures were applied to the data: the multi-dimensional gated recurrent units (MD-GRU), the V-Net, and the nnU-Net. The nnU-Net was used to compare the performance of two-dimensional (2D) versus three-dimensional (3D) predictions.

Results

A total of 121 OCT volumes were analyzed (100 normal and 21 PCLs). Automated PCL segmentations were successful with all neural networks. The 3D nnU-Net predictions showed the highest recall with a mean of 0.77 ± 0.22 (MD-GRU, 0.60 ± 0.31; V-Net, 0.61 ± 0.25). The 3D nnU-Net predicted PCLs with a Dice coefficient of 0.78 ± 0.13, outperforming MD-GRU (0.62 ± 0.23) and V-Net (0.59 ± 0.24). The smallest distance to the manual annotation was found using 3D nnU-Net with a mean maximum Hausdorff distance of 315 ± 172 µm (MD-GRU, 1542 ± 1169 µm; V-Net, 2408 ± 1060 µm). The 3D nnU-Net showed a superior performance compared with stacked 2D predictions.

Conclusions

The feasibility of automated deep learning segmentation of PCLs was demonstrated in OCT data. The neural network architecture had a relevant impact on PCL predictions.

Translational Relevance

This work serves as proof of concept for segmentations of choroidal pathologies in volumetric OCT data; improvements are conceivable to meet clinical demands for the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment evaluation of PCLs.

Importance of Optical Coherence Tomography and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in the Imaging and Differentiation of Choroidal Melanoma: A Review

Simple Summary

Choroidal melanoma is a highly malignant intraocular neoplasm. It is the most prevalent intraocular tumor in adults and it derives from melanocytes; the liver is the most common site of its metastases. An early and noninvasive diagnosis is essential to enhance patients’ chances for early treatment. The OCT and OCTA-A are a noninvasive and noncontact methods used in the diagnostic process and support therapeutic decisions during control visits. These devices allow for detection and the real-time imaging of choroidal melanoma and its differentiation from metastasis and choroidal nevi. In addition to analyzing the currently utilized OCT and OCT-A methods, this review describes also the anatomy and imaging of specific vascular layers of the eye.

Abstract

Choroidal melanoma requires reliable and precise clinical examination and diagnosis to differentiate it from benign choroidal nevi. To achieve accurate diagnosis, as well as monitoring the progression of disease, various imaging modalities are used, including non-invasive optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). This review begins with a historical account of the development of OCT and OCTA and the methods of generation of images. This outlines the understanding of what OCT/OCTA images show, as well as how image artifacts arise. The anatomy and imaging of specific vascular layers of the eye are introduced. Then, anatomical aspects of choroidal melanoma, its diagnosis and differentiation from metastasis, and choroidal nevi are presented. The purpose of this review is to critically evaluate application of OCT and OCTA in the diagnosis of choroidal melanoma.

Future perspectives of uveal melanoma blood based biomarkers

Uveal melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy affecting adults. Despite successful local treatment of the primary tumour, metastatic disease develops in up to 50% of patients. Metastatic UM carries a particularly poor prognosis, with no effective therapeutic option available to date. Genetic studies of UM have demonstrated that cytogenetic features, including gene expression, somatic copy number alterations and specific gene mutations can allow more accurate assessment of metastatic risk. Pre-emptive therapies to avert metastasis are being tested in clinical trials in patients with high-risk UM. However, current prognostic methods require an intraocular tumour biopsy, which is a highly invasive procedure carrying a risk of vision-threatening complications and is limited by sampling variability. Recently, a new diagnostic concept known as "liquid biopsy" has emerged, heralding a substantial potential for minimally invasive genetic characterisation of tumours. Here, we examine the current evidence supporting the potential of blood circulating tumour cells (CTCs), circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA), microRNA (miRNA) and exosomes as biomarkers for UM. In particular, we discuss the potential of these biomarkers to aid clinical decision making throughout the management of UM patients.

Primary vitreoretinal involvement and immunopositivity for BRAFV600E help distinguish metastatic from primary intraocular melanoma: a detailed histopathologic study of metastatic cutaneous melanoma to the eye

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinicopathologic characteristics of metastatic cutaneous melanoma to the eye and identify potential distinguishing characteristics from the more common primary uveal melanoma; particularly, tumour location within the eye, cytomorphology and immunohistochemical/specific molecular genetic features.

METHODS

A retrospective observational case series using surgical enucleation and diagnostic vitrectomy cytologic specimens from seven patients with suspected intraocular melanoma, eventually diagnosed as metastatic melanoma, was conducted. Haematoxylin and eosin-stained sections of tumour and immunohistochemical (IHC) stains for BRAFV600E and Ki-67 were critically reviewed; BAP1 IHC was also evaluated in cases where additional tissue was available. Clinical imaging studies and medical records were reviewed.

RESULTS

The majority of patients (86%) with metastatic melanoma have primary vitreoretinal (not uveal) involvement and epithelioid, highly malignant cytomorphology (100%); many (50%) harbour BRAFV600E mutations, a finding not seen in large cohorts of primary uveal melanoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Characteristics favouring or defining metastatic intraocular melanoma over primary uveal melanoma include high-grade epithelioid cytology, predominant involvement of the vitreous cavity and/or retina, and presence of positive immunostaining for BRAFV600E.

Eye-specific quantitative dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI analysis for patients with intraocular masses

OBJECTIVE

Dynamic contrast enhanced (DCE)-MRI is currently not generally used for intraocular masses as lesions are small, have an inhomogeneous T₁ and the eye is prone to motion. The aim of this paper is to address these eye-specific challenges, enabling accurate ocular DCE-MRI.

MATERIALS & METHODS

DCE-MRI of 19 uveal melanoma (UM) patients was acquired using a fat-suppressed 3D spoiled gradient echo sequence with TWIST (time-resolved angiography with stochastic trajectories sequence). The analysis consisted of a two-step registration method to correct for both head and eye motion. A T₁ map was calculated to convert signal intensities to concentrations. Subsequently, the Tofts model was fitted voxel wise to obtain K^trans and v_e.

RESULTS

Registration significantly improved the concentration curve quality (p < 0.001). The T₁ of melanotic lesions was significantly lower than amelanotic lesions (888 ms vs 1350 ms, p = 0.03). The average achieved B₁⁺ in the lesions was 91%. The average K^trans was 0.46 min^-1 (range 0.13-1.0) and the average v_e was 0.22 (range 0.10-0.51).

CONCLUSION

Using this eye-specific analysis, DCE of intraocular masses is possible which might aid in the diagnosis, prognosis and follow-up of UM.

Mobile Telemedicine Screening for Diabetic Retinopathy Using Nonmydriatic Fundus Photographs in Burgundy: 11 Years of Results

We analyzed the results of mobile screening for diabetic retinopathy (DR) using retinal photographs, comparing these results between rural and periurban areas, and before and after the first national COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. The Burgundy Union Régionale des Professionnels de Santé (URPS) has organized an annual DR screening since 2004. The examination, performed by an orthoptist, consisted of taking the patient's history, intraocular pressure measurement, and taking retinal photographs. After remote transmission, the examinations were interpreted by participating ophthalmologists at the Dijon University Hospital. In September 2016, the screening was open to periurban townships. In 11 years, 10,220 patients were screened: 1,420 patients (13.9%) had DR of any type, with an average age of 68.5 (±11.3) years, and 59.2% were men. These patients had a statistically significantly higher glycated hemoglobin level (7.4% vs. 7.0%) and a longer duration of diabetes (13.8 vs. 9.3 years) than patients without DR. When comparing rural and periurban areas and periods before and after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, we did not find any significant difference in the screening results. The results of this study are in line with the average findings of similar studies comparing screening strategies for DR. The early detection of DR can benefit from mobile telemedicine screening, identifying a considerable number of patients at an elevated risk, especially in rural areas where access to ophthalmological care is limited.

OCT Imaging in Infants

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is widely applied in diagnosis and management of retina diseases particularly macular diseases in adult retina practices. However, it has been under-utilized in pediatric retinal diseases especially in neonates and infants. Utilization of OCT in primary macular diseases in this age group is also uncommon and is less reported. Challenges involved in image acquisition and limitations with available devices technique can explain the limited research and accurate data availability in the literature in this field. Purpose of this review article is to summarize the use of OCT and its importance in various infantile retinal pathologies such as vascular diseases, tumors, retinal dystrophies, and optic nerve pathologies with primary focus on neonates and infants, along with infant choroid. In addition, we also discuss about future directions including OCT angiography for infants.

Conversion Factor for B-Scan Ultrasound Measurement of Intraocular Tumors With and Without the Sclera

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the relationship between choroidal nevus and melanoma thickness measured with or without the sclera included by B-scan ultrasound and to present a simple conversion formula.

METHODS

Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for choroidal nevus or melanoma evaluated at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, with B-scan ultrasound between February 4, 2004, and April 23, 2020. Charts were retrospectively reviewed for high-quality B-scan images in which the ultrasound transducer was perpendicular to the lesion, measuring the tumor thickness without the sclera included. Measurements were repeated with the sclera included for each patient. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify factors correlated with scleral thickness.

RESULTS

There were 201 tumors included in the study, with a mean patient age ± SD of 61 ± 14 years, largest tumor basal diameter of 11.8 ± 4.8 mm, tumor thickness without the sclera included of 3.72 ± 2.7 mm, and thickness with the sclera included of 4.54 ± SD 2.8 mm. On the univariate analysis, factors associated with perceived scleral thickness by B-scan ultrasound included age (P < .001), tumor thickness (P < .001), and basal diameter (P = .06). On the multivariate analysis, factors associated with perceived scleral thickness included age and tumor thickness (P < .001) for all tumors and for the subset of 141 tumors with a thickness of 2 mm or greater (P < .001). For tumors of 2 mm or greater in thickness, perceived scleral thickness by ultrasound can be estimated by the formula 0.00495(patient age) + 0.02451(tumor thickness without the sclera) + 0.42549.

CONCLUSIONS

We present a simple formula for converting between B-scan ultrasound measurements of choroidal nevus and melanoma measuring 2 mm or greater in thickness with and without the sclera included.

[Transformation of choroidal nevus into melanoma]

The risk of choroidal melanoma developing from choroidal nevus (CN) varies in range of 0.78-7%. Absence of a common terminology and distinct diagnostic criteria characterizing small melanoma de novo and unusual CN often complicates treatment choice and patient prognosis.

PURPOSE

To study the clinical features and the role of visualization methods in the diagnosis of CN transformation into melanoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study analyzes the clinical picture and visualization results of 11 patients with initial diagnosis of «choroidal nevus» (n=3) and «suspicious choroidal nevus» (n=8).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Examination and continued observation revealed 7 patients to have melanoma that had developed from CN (2 of them confirmed with histological studies). The time before CN transformed into melanoma varied between 4 and 13 years, with median 5 [4; 12] years. Two patients were diagnosed with primary melanoma (melanoma de novo), two other patients - with suspicious CN. In progressive CN transforming into melanoma, visual impairments occurred between 6 months and 13 years in 6 out of 7 patients. Initial prominence of suspicious CN at the first visit was 1.9±0.68 mm (0.9 mm to 2.67 mm). The characteristic features of suspicious CN transforming into initial melanoma are: 1) asymmetric shape of the edges of expanded choroidal complex; 2) presence of areas of damaged choriocapillaris layer, direct and indirect signs of loss of integrity of the Bruch's membrane; 3) areas of accumulation of moderately hyperreflective subretinal exudate; 4) presence of intraretinal hyperreflective inclusions. The signs distinguishing primary choroidal melanoma from melanoma that had developed from CN are: 1) absence of areas with tomography pattern characteristic of nevi; 2) more pronounced asymmetry of the shape of edges, compared to melanoma developed from CN; 3) presence of cysts in larger tumors, compared to melanoma developed from CN.

CONCLUSION

All patients with CN should be regularly followed up by an ophthalmologist.

Diagnostic methods and therapeutic options of uveal melanoma with emphasis on MR imaging-Part I: MR imaging with pathologic correlation and technical considerations

Uveal melanoma is a malignant neoplasm that derives from pigmented melanocytes of the uvea and involves, in order of decreasing prevalence, the choroid, ciliary body and iris. Its prognosis is related to histopathologic and genetic features, tumor size and location, extraocular extension. The diagnosis is fundamentally based on clinical evaluation (ophthalmoscopy, biomicroscopy) and ultrasonography. MRI is useful in case of untransparent lens or subretinal effusion. Moreover, MRI has a significant role to confirm the diagnosis, in the evaluation of the local extent of the disease with implications for treatment planning, and in the follow-up after radiotherapy treatment. Uveal melanoma can show different morphologic features (lentiform, dome or mushroom shape) and often determines retinal detachment. MR appearance of uveal melanoma mainly depends on the melanin content. Uveal melanoma typically displays high signal intensity on T1-weighted images and low signal intensity on T2-weighted images. Nevertheless, imaging appearance may be variable based on the degree of pigmentation and the presence of areas of necrosis or cavitation. Differential diagnosis includes other uveal lesions. The radiologists and in particular MRI play a significant role in the clinical management of uveal melanoma. The purpose of this pictorial review is to provide the radiologists with awareness about diagnostic methods and therapeutic options of uveal melanoma. In the present first section we summarize the MR anatomy of the eye and describe ophthalmological and radiological imaging techniques to diagnose uveal melanomas, with emphasis on the role of MR imaging. Additionally, we review MR imaging appearance of uveal melanomas.

Bilateral idiopathic choroidal hyperpigmentation

PURPOSE

To report a series of cases showing bilateral circumpapillary hyperpigmentation on routine fundus examination.

METHODS

In this observational case series, three patients showing bilateral circumpapillary hyperpigmentation on routine fundus examination were included. Multimodal retinal imaging was done for these cases.

RESULTS

Multimodal imaging of the lesion showed the hyper pigmentation to be confined to the choroid. The optical coherence tomography scans described the features through the hyperpigmented area, adjacent hypopigmented area and the normally pigmented area of the fundus as suggestive of choroidal hyper melanosis. Follow-up of these lesions over a period of 2-6 years showed no change in the vision or characteristics of the lesion.

CONCLUSION

Bilateral circumpapillary hyperpigmentation needs to be considered as a differential for bilateral peripapillary pigmented lesions.

DOCUMENTATION OF A NEW CHOROIDAL NEVUS

PURPOSE

To describe the occurrence of an acquired choroidal nevus in a 73-year-old white man.

METHODS

Case report.

RESULTS

A 73-year-old white man was referred for an evaluation and treatment of macular changes in his left eye consistent with pachychoroid neovasculopathy. Baseline funduscopic examination and color fundus photographs showed two small peripheral choroidal nevi in the right eye and a single small choroidal nevus in the far temporal macula of the left eye. Treatment with intravitreal aflibercept was initiated in the left eye on a treat-and-extend dosing regimen. Approximately 1 year later, a new pigmented choroidal lesion was detected in the left macula in an area where previous high-resolution color fundus photographs had shown no abnormal pigmentation. Swept-source optical coherence tomography of the new pigmented lesion showed flat hyperreflectivity within the inner choroid consistent with a small choroidal nevus. The patient was referred to his internist who found no evidence of an occult malignancy. Over the course of more than 4 additional years of continuous follow-up, the new choroidal nevus remained stable, no new fundus abnormalities were detected in either eye, and the patient remained medically stable.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of a new choroidal nevus. Multimodal imaging performed before lesion detection and over the ensuing 4 years showed its stability, thus allowing for the conclusion that it was a benign choroidal nevus rather than a neoplastic or paraneoplastic process.

Estimating malignancy risk of melanocytic choroidal tumours detected in the Australian National Eye Health Survey

Clinical relevance: The malignant potential of choroidal melanocytic tumours detected incidentally in the community is thought to be low, but this has not been assessed using a validated screening tool. An accurate characterisation of the malignant potential of these lesions has implications for resource allocation, service provision, education, and training.Background: MOLES (Mushroom shape, Orange Pigment, Large size, Enlargement, and Subretinal fluid) categorises tumours as 'common naevus', 'low-risk naevus', 'high-risk naevus', and 'probable melanoma'. The MOLES system recommends that patients with common naevi (score = 0) undergo review by a community optometrist every two years, ideally with sequential colour photography. For the remaining patients (score ≥ 1), specialist imaging and assessment are recommended, with referral triaged as non-urgent for patients with low-risk (score = 1) or high-risk naevi (score = 2) and urgent for patients with probable melanoma (score > 2).Methods: Lesions flagged as choroidal melanocytic tumours on retinal photographs taken during the Australian National Eye Health Survey were retrospectively analysed by an ocular oncologist. Each lesion was assigned a MOLES score and categorised as common, low-risk, high-risk or probable melanoma.Results: Seventy-seven choroidal naevi were identified. Seventy-five (97%) of the choroidal naevi were categorised as common naevi, with a MOLES score of 0. Two (3%) choroidal naevi had a score of 1 and diagnosed as low-risk naevi due to their size. No naevi had a score of 2 or more.Conclusion: All choroidal naevi detected in this nationally representative population survey were innocuous. This suggests that the vast majority of choroidal melanocytic tumours that are incidentally detected in Australia can be managed in primary eye care settings without the need for specialist referral. MOLES provides a simple evidence-based method for choroidal naevi assessment in primary care.

Application of Multimodal and Molecular Imaging Techniques in the Detection of Choroidal Melanomas

Choroidal melanomas are the most common ocular malignant tumors worldwide. The onset of such tumors is insidious, such that affected patients often have no pain or obvious discomfort during early stages. Notably, enucleation is required for patients with a severe choroidal melanoma, which can seriously impact their quality of life. Moreover, choroidal melanomas metastasize early, often to the liver; this eventually causes affected patients to die of liver failure. Therefore, early diagnosis of choroidal melanomas is extremely important. Unfortunately, an early choroidal melanoma is easily confused with a choroidal nevus, which is the most common benign tumor of the eye and does not often require surgical treatment. This review discusses recent advances in the use of multimodal and molecular imaging to identify choroidal melanomas and choroidal nevi, detect early metastasis, and diagnose patients with choroidal melanomas.

Retinal applications of swept source optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA)

The advent of optical coherence tomography (OCT) revolutionized both clinical assessment and research of vitreoretinal conditions. Since then, extraordinary advances have been made in this imaging technology, including the relatively recent development of swept-source OCT (SS-OCT). SS-OCT enables a fast scan rate and utilizes a tunable swept laser, thus enabling the incorporation of longer wavelengths than conventional spectral-domain devices. These features enable imaging of larger areas with reduced motion artifact, and a better visualization of the choroidal vasculature, respectively. Building on the principles of OCT, swept-source OCT has also been applied to OCT angiography (SS-OCTA), thus enabling a non-invasive in depth-resolved imaging of the retinal and choroidal microvasculature. Despite their advantages, the widespread use of SS-OCT and SS-OCTA remains relatively limited. In this review, we summarize the technical details, advantages and limitations of SS-OCT and SS-OCTA, with a particular emphasis on their relevance for the study of retinal conditions. Additionally, we comprehensively review relevant studies performed to date to the study of retinal health and disease, and highlight current gaps in knowledge and opportunities to take advantage of swept source technology to improve our current understanding of many medical and surgical chorioretinal conditions. We anticipate that SS-OCT and SS-OCTA will continue to evolve rapidly, contributing to a paradigm shift to more widespread adoption of new imaging technology to clinical practice.

Update on uveal melanoma: Translational research from biology to clinical practice (Review)

Uveal melanoma is the most common type of intraocular cancer with a low mean annual incidence of 5‑10 cases per million. Tumours are located in the choroid (90%), ciliary body (6%) or iris (4%) and of 85% are primary tumours. As in cutaneous melanoma, tumours arise in melanocytes; however, the characteristics of uveal melanoma differ, accounting for 3‑5% of melanocytic cancers. Among the numerous risk factors are age, sex, genetic and phenotypic predisposition, the work environment and dermatological conditions. Management is usually multidisciplinary, including several specialists such as ophthalmologists, oncologists and maxillofacial surgeons, who participate in the diagnosis, treatment and complex follow‑up of these patients, without excluding the management of the immense emotional burden. Clinically, uveal melanoma generates symptoms that depend as much on the affected ocular globe site as on the tumour size. The anatomopathological study of uveal melanoma has recently benefited from developments in molecular biology. In effect, disease classification or staging according to molecular profile is proving useful for the assessment of this type of tumour. Further, the improved knowledge of tumour biology is giving rise to a more targeted approach to diagnosis, prognosis and treatment development; for example, epigenetics driven by microRNAs as a target for disease control. In the present study, the main epidemiological, clinical, physiopathological and molecular features of this disease are reviewed, and the associations among all these factors are discussed.

CHOROIDAL NEVUS IMAGING FEATURES IN 3,806 CASES AND RISK FACTORS FOR TRANSFORMATION INTO MELANOMA IN 2,355 CASES: The 2020 Taylor R. Smith and Victor T. Curtin Lecture

PURPOSE

To use multimodal imaging for identification of risk factors for choroidal nevus transformation into melanoma.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review of 3806 consecutive choroidal nevi with imaging and 2355 choroidal nevi with additional follow up to identify factors predictive of transformation of choroidal nevus into melanoma.

RESULTS

The median patient age was 62.5 years and Caucasian race in 3167 (95%). The choroidal nevus demonstrated median basal diameter of 4.0 mm and thickness of 1.4 mm. Imaging included optical coherence tomography (OCT) showing subretinal fluid (SRF) in 312 (9%), ultrasonography (US) with acoustic hollowness in 309 (9%), and hyper-autofluorescence (AF) in 100 (3%). Of those 2355 choroidal nevi with follow up, Kaplan-Meier estimates of nevus transformation into melanoma at 1, 5, and 10 years were 1.2%, 5.8%, and 13.9%, respectively. Multivariate analysis, using multimodal imaging for detection of factors predictive of nevus transformation into melanoma, included thickness >2 mm on US (hazard ratio (HR) 3.80, p < 0.0001), SRF on OCT as cap over nevus (HR 3.00, p < 0.0001) or SRF ≤3 mm from nevus margin (HR 3.56, p = 0.0003), symptomatic vision loss ≤20/50 on Snellen visual acuity (VA) (HR 2.28, p = 0.005), orange pigment (lipofuscin) hyperautofluorescence on AF (HR 3.07, p = 0.0004), acoustic hollowness on US (HR 2.10, p = 0.0020), and tumor diameter >5 mm on photography (HR 1.84, p = 0.0275). These factors can be recalled by the mnemonic "To Find Small Ocular Melanoma Doing IMaging" (TFSOM-DIM) representing Thickness >2 mm (US), Fluid subretinal (OCT), Symptoms vision loss (VA), Orange pigment (AF), Melanoma hollow (US), and DIaMeter >5mm (photography). The mean 5-year estimates of nevus growth into melanoma were 1% (HR 0.8) for those with 0 risk factor, 11% (HR 3.09) with 1 factor, 22% (HR 10.6) with 2 factors, 34% (HR 15.1) with 3 factors, 51% (HR 15.2) with 4 factors, 55% (HR 26.4) with 5 risk factors, and not-estimable with all 6 risk factors.

CONCLUSION

In this analysis, multimodal imaging was capable of detecting risk factors for nevus transformation into melanoma, including thickness >2 mm (US), fluid subretinal (OCT), symptoms vision loss (Snellen acuity), orange pigment (AF), melanoma hollowness (US), and diameter >5 mm (photography). Increasing number of risk factors imparts greater risk for nevus transformation into melanoma, including thickness >2 mm (US), fluid subretinal (OCT), symptoms vision loss (Snellen acuity), orange pigment (AF), melanoma hollowness (US), and diameter >5 mm (photography). Increasing number of risk factors imparts greater risk for transformation.

CHOROIDAL NEVUS TRANSFORMATION INTO MELANOMA PER MILLIMETER INCREMENT IN THICKNESS USING MULTIMODAL IMAGING IN 2355 CASES: The 2019 Wendell L. Hughes Lecture

PURPOSE

To analyze risk of nevus transformation into melanoma per millimeter increment.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 3,806 choroidal nevi for transformation into melanoma per incremental millimeter thickness (flat [≤1.0 mm], thin [1.1-2.0 mm], thicker [2.1-3.0 mm], and thickest [>3.0 mm]) RESULTS:: The median nevus thickness was 1.4 mm, and nevi were categorized (flat, thin, thicker, and thickest) in 1,140 (30%), 2052 (54%), 555 (15%), and 59 (<1%), respectively. There were differences in tumor diameter (2.5, 4.8, 7.5, and 9.3 mm; P < 0.01), optical coherence tomography detection of overlying subretinal fluid (<1, 4, 15, and 11%; P < 0.01), overlying retinal edema (<1, 3, 14, and 25%; P < 0.01), overlying drusen (23, 49, 64, and 64%; P < 0.01), overlying retinal pigment epithelial detachment (1, 4, 4, and 9%; P < 0.01), and overlying lipofuscin hyperautofluoresence (<1, 3, 6, and 7%; P < 0.01). Choroidal nevus transformation into melanoma (n = 90/2,355 cases, 3.8%) was found by Kaplan-Meier 7-year estimates (2.2, 6.1, 31.7, and 34.5%; P < 0.0001) and by hazard ratio (HR) compared with nevus ≤1.0 mm (not available, 4.7 [P = 0.01], 35.7 [P < 0.0001], and 52.0 [P < 0.0001]). For all thicknesses, those with growth displayed increase in mean basal diameter of 2.4 mm and thickness of 1.1 mm, optical coherence tomography increase in subretinal fluid (65%), autofluorescence increase in lipofuscin (40%), and ultrasonography increase in hollowness (30%). Multivariable risk factors, recalled by the mnemonic "To Find Small Ocular Melanoma Doing IMaging" (TFSOM-DIM) representing Thickness >2 mm (ultrasonography), Fluid subretinal (optical coherence tomography), Symptom vision loss (Va), Orange pigment (autofluorescence), Melanoma hollow (ultrasonography), and DIaMeter >5 mm, revealed factors per incremental thickness category (compared with flat) including thin (Fluid overlying, HR 6.1; DIaMeter >5 mm, HR 3.3), thicker (Fluid subretinal ≤3 mm from nevus, HR 5.7; Melanoma acoustic hollowness, HR 2.7), and thickest (Orange pigment, HR 9.1).

CONCLUSION

Each incremental increase in choroidal nevus thickness demonstrated risk of growth into melanoma with HR (compared with flat) 4.7 for thin, 35.7 for thicker, and 52.0 for thickest. The increase from ≤2.0 mm to >2.0 mm thickness conferred the greatest rise for transformation.

Novel and Unusual Retinal Findings in Two Patients with Neurofibromatosis Type 1

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a phacomatosis known to be associated with several developmental abnormalities in multiple organ systems including the eyes. NF1 can present with varying ophthalmic manifestations, including Lisch nodules, retinal astrocytic hamartomas, capillary hemangiomas, plexiform neurofibromas, and choroidal nodules. We present 2 cases of NF1 with presentations that may represent underreported retinal abnormalities occurring in NF1. Case 1 presents a patient who developed spontaneous peripheral retinal dialysis with subsequent retinal detachment; case 2 discusses a patient with multiple pigmented choroidal lesions bilaterally.

Subclinical subretinal fluid detectable only by optical coherence tomography in choroidal naevi-the SON study

BACKGROUND

Subretinal fluid is a risk factor for growth and malignant transformation of choroidal naevi, however it is unclear if this applies to subclinical fluid that is only detectable by optical coherence tomography (OCT). The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and associations of subclinical but OCT-detectable subretinal fluid over choroidal naevi.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 309 consecutive cases of choroidal naevi imaged by OCT between July 2017 to January 2019. Multicentre international study involving ten retinal specialist centres. All patients presenting to retinal specialists had routine clinical examination and OCT imaging. The prevalence of subclinical OCT-detectable subretinal fluid over choroidal naevi and its associations with other features known to predict growth and malignant transformation were noted and analysed.

RESULTS

Of 309 identified consecutive cases, the mean patient age was 65 years, 89.3% of patients were Caucasian and 3.9% were Asian. The prevalence of subclinical but OCT-detectable subretinal fluid associated with choroidal naevi was 11.7% (36/309). Naevi with fluid were associated with larger basal diameters, greater thickness, presence of a halo, orange pigmentation, hyperautofluorescence, and hypodensity on B-scan ultrasonography.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Of choroidal naevi where subretinal fluid is not visible on clinical examination, 11.7% demonstrate subretinal fluid on OCT scans. These naevi more commonly exhibit features known to be associated with growth and transformation to melanoma. The presence of subclinical OCT-detectable fluid over choroidal naevi may assist in their risk stratification.

Prospective validation of a virtual clinic pathway in the management of choroidal naevi: the NAEVUS study Report no. 1: safety assessment

BACKGROUND

Choroidal naevi are a common incidental finding prompting specialist referrals to ocular oncology. Rarely, such lesions have sufficient suspicious features to diagnose a small melanoma. The aim of the study is to show that 'virtual' imaging-based pathways are a safe and efficient option to manage such referrals.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study at the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and Moorfields Eye Hospital between June 2016 and July 2017 of the management decision of 400 patients reviewed by an ophthalmologist in a face-to-face consultation (gold standard) supported by fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, autofluorescence (AF) and B-mode ultrasound. The images were also read independently by blinded graders (non-medical) and blinded ophthalmologists, and a management decision was made based on image review alone (virtual pathway). The two pathways were compared for safety.

RESULTS

The agreement for management decisions between face-to-face and virtual pathways was 83.1% (non-medical) and 82.6% (medical). There were more over-referrals in the virtual pathway (non-medical 24.3%, medical 23.3% of gold standard discharge) and only two under-referrals (10.5% of gold standard referrals), both borderline cases with minimal clinical risk. The agreement for risk factors of growth (orange pigment, subretinal fluid, hyper-AF) ranged between 82.3% and 97.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

We prospectively validated a virtual clinic model for the safe management of choroidal naevi. Such a model of care is feasible with low rate of under-referral. An over-referral rate of almost 24% from the vitrual pathway needs to be factored into designing such pathways in conjunction with evidence on their cost-effectiveness.

Remote screening of retinal and optic disc diseases using handheld nonmydriatic cameras in programmed routine occupational health checkups onsite at work centers

Purpose

To evaluate the first year outcomes of a remote screening program for detection of retinal diseases using handheld nonmydriatic cameras in occupational routine checkups performed onsite at work centers.

Methods

Cross-sectional, first year screening program outcomes audit. Participants were volunteers recruited from staff within work centers. Retinal fundus images were captured by technicians, and images and data were anonymized and sent securely to a remote server. A team of ophthalmologists, all retinal specialists, remotely read the images using a custom-made software and sent telematic reports of findings within 24–48 h. The main items evaluated were the detection of retinal abnormalities and the relationship between retinal findings and demographic data such as age and sex.

Results

A total of 19,881 workers were evaluated in 52 centers. Mean age was 41.1 years old, 43.9% men and 56.1% women. Mean duration of the test was around 2 min. Of the workers, 7.8% presented abnormalities in retinal fundus images, being the main findings choroidal nevus (2.4%), macular pigment abnormalities (1.5%), glaucomatous optic disc (1.2%), and macular signs of high myopia (1.1%). The presence of abnormalities was associated with greater age, being 5%, 7.9%, 12.6%, and 19.7% in workers less than 40 years, from 40 to 49, 50–59, and ≥ 60 years (p < 0.05), respectively. Men had more abnormalities in retinal fundus images than women (8.6 vs. 7.2; p < 0.05 RR: 1.2; CI 1092–1322).

Conclusions

Mass screening of retinal and optic disc abnormalities during occupational health routine checkups is a feasible, quick, and efficient tool for early detection of potential vision-threatening disease markers.

Selective retina therapy for subretinal fluid associated with choroidal nevus

Purpose

To report a case of a patient with subretinal fluid (SRF) associated with choroidal nevus (CN), who was treated with selective retina therapy (SRT) and ultimately achieved resolution of the SRF.

Observations

A 41-year-old man with SRF associated with CN in his right eye (RE) underwent ophthalmologic evaluation, including optic coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography (FA) and indocyanine green angiography. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) converted to the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) was 0.00 in the RE. SRT (532 nm, 1.7 μs pulse duration, 30 pulses in 100Hz; Medical Laser Center Lübeck) was performed with the laser spots equally distributed across the FA leakage area. Until 20 months SRT was repeated several times because the SRF decreased every time in response to SRT, but was not completely resolved and sometimes increased with time. After performing 6 times of SRT session, leakage on FA stopped at 21 months follow-up and SRF was resolved at 31 months. At 60 months after the first SRT, there were no signs of malignant transformation, no SRF, and the BCVA in the RE was 0.22.

Conclusions and Importance

SRT seems to be a useful treatment and proper clinical studies are necessary to establish the best treatment protocol for SRF associated with CN.

Ultra-wide-field imaging assessment of small choroidal pigmented lesions using red and green colour channels

BACKGROUND

Diagnosis of small choroidal melanoma is mainly based on tumour thickness, subretinal fluid, or lipofuscin pigment. Ultra-wide-field imaging (UWF) allows depiction of choroidal lesions through a red (RC) and a green channel (GC). Aim of the study was to determine the utility of this tool in the detection of small choroidal melanoma.

METHODS

Retrospective cross-sectional study of patients with small choroidal pigmented lesions up to 3 mm in thickness. All patients underwent clinical and imaging assessment including UWF. Lesions were subcategorized based on thickness and lesion type. A qualitative assessment ensued using the red and green channels feature.

RESULTS

A total of 152 patients were included. Melanotic naevi (76/152,50%) and small choroidal melanomas (55/152,36%) were the predominant types. Thickness was <1 mm in 30% (46/152), 1-2 mm in 46% (70/152) and 2-3 mm in 24% (36/152) of cases. Two distinct imaging patterns were noted: dark on RC/undetectable on GC and dark on RC/light on GC. In melanotic naevi the dark on RC/light on GC pattern was significantly associated with increased tumour thickness (p = 0.006) and the presence of lipofuscin (p < 0.001) suggesting a potential prognostic significance. In small melanomas such an association was not established. The majority of small melanomas manifested a dark on RC/undetectable on GC pattern despite the presence of subretinal fluid and lipofuscin.

CONCLUSIONS

UWF imaging of choroidal pigmented tumours with red-green channels revealed two distinct patterns. The dark on RC/light on GC pattern was more common in suspicious melanotic naevi, but not in small melanomas. The use of red-green channels is not a reliable diagnostic tool in the early detection of small melanomas.

Real-world outcomes of allied health professional-led clinic model for assessing and monitoring ocular melanocytic lesions

BACKGROUND

Naevomelanocytic lesions comprise an increasing workload in ophthalmic secondary care and, although largely benign, carry high risk of mortality in case of malignant transformation. Previous studies highlight the theoretical strength of virtual models in monitoring such lesions and the role of allied health professionals (AHPs). We aim to describe and validate a "real-world" functional clinical model utilising these particular resources.

METHODS

New and existing follow-up patients from November 2016 to June 2019 with melanocytic lesions of the uveal tract and conjunctiva were directed into an optometrist-led, consultant-supported, clinic. Diagnostic tests included colour photography, autofluorescence, enhanced-depth imaging and ultrasound biomicroscopy. New patients were examined face-to-face initially, then virtually on subsequent visits. Suspicious lesions were referred to the consultant, with tertiary oncology referrals made as necessary. Clinical concordance between optometrist and consultant, patient satisfaction and outcomes of second opinion requests were audited.

RESULTS

Eight hundred and twenty-five patient episodes were encountered: 419 new and 406 follow-up. Between July 1st and August 31st 2018, 72 cases were audited. There was 98.6% concordance between AHP and consultant for diagnosis and management. Referral for consultant second opinion was requested in 18(2%) clinical encounters, with 4(0.5%) referred on to the oncology centre, of which 3 received treatment. Of 65 patients responding to a patient satisfaction survey, 100% were satisfied with their experience and 95% were happy to continue monitoring by the AHP.

CONCLUSION

With robust training and assessment, AHP-led service models are a highly efficient in busy units, without compromising patient safety.

EYES WITH SUBRETINAL DRUSENOID DEPOSITS AND NO DRUSEN: Progression of Macular Findings

PURPOSE

To investigate the macular changes over time in eyes containing subretinal drusenoid deposits (also known as pseudodrusen) with no drusen >63 µm.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients were examined with color fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, and autofluorescence imaging with fluorescein angiography used as necessary. Exclusionary criteria included macular neovascularization, history of retinal surgery, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, and drusen >63 µm.

RESULTS

There were 85 eyes of 54 patients. The mean age at baseline was 83.6 (±7.8) years, and there were 17 men. The mean follow-up was 5.0 (±2.9) years. At initial optical coherence tomography examination, 12 eyes had extrafoveal atrophy and 17 eyes had vitelliform deposits, which were yellowish white subretinal collections that showed intense hyperautofluorescence. During follow-up, 11 eyes lost vitelliform material. After the disappearance of small deposits, focal hyperpigmentation remained. Loss of larger deposits was associated with noteworthy sequela; six developed subfoveal atrophy and one macular neovascularization close to regressing vitelliform material. Subfoveal geographic atrophy developed in four other eyes without vitelliform material by extension from areas of extrafoveal atrophy. Macular neovascularization developed in seven eyes over follow-up. The CFH Y402H and ARMS2 A69S allele frequencies were 57% and 48.9%, respectively, which is similar to a group of age-related macular degeneration controls. One patient had a novel PRPH2 mutation, but did not have a vitelliform deposit; the remainder had a normal PRPH2 and BEST1 coding sequences.

CONCLUSION

Eyes with subretinal drusenoid deposits and no drusen >63 mm have significant risk for the development of both neovascularization and geographic atrophy, the fundamental components of late age-related macular degeneration. An intermediate step in some eyes was the development of a vitelliform deposit, an entity not traditionally associated with age-related macular degeneration, but in these patients, the material seemed to be an important component of the disease pathophysiology. This vitelliform deposit was not associated with genetic markers for pattern dystrophy or Best disease.

Why Miss the Chance? Incidental Findings while Telescreening for Diabetic Retinopathy

PURPOSE

To report on incidental pathological findings met while screening for Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) in Diabetes Clinics (DC) by ophthalmologist-graded digital fundus imaging.

METHODS

At the DC of Pescara (central Italy), for 3,859 eyes of 1,930 consecutive patients having not undergone fundus examination in the last year, two mydriatic fundus digital images, taken with a CenterVue DRS Digital Retinal Camera, were sent along with Best Corrected Visual Acuity, on a "store-and-forward" basis, to an ophthalmologist trained in DR screening, and graded according to the UK Diabetic Eye Screening Programme. Incidental fundus abnormalities other than DR were reported.

RESULTS

No adverse event to mydriasis was reported. One hundred and eighty eyes (4.66%) were ungradable. Among the 3,679 gradable ones, 1,105 (30.04%) showed different degrees of DR (R1 to R3), and 126 (3.42%) maculopathy (M1). Any Age-Related Macular Degeneration was present in 387 eyes (10.52%), any optic disc and parapapillary area features suspect for glaucoma in 562 eyes (15.27%), any hypertensive retinopathy in 1,263 eyes (34.33%), vitreoretinal interface disease in 252 eyes (6.84%), myopic choroidopathy in 92 eyes (2.50%), disc pallor in 31 eyes (0.84%). Mean time was 5 min for screening, 2 min for grading.

CONCLUSION

Teleretinography is a well-established, cost-effective procedure in DR screening. Along with increased attendance, locating a digital camera in a DC with a retina-specialist grader results in finding fundus pathologies also beyond DR, very similarly to fundus examination in an outpatient ophthalmic setting.

A Panel of Circulating MicroRNAs Detects Uveal Melanoma With High Precision

PURPOSE

To determine if a circulating microRNA (miRNA) panel could be used to distinguish between uveal melanoma and uveal nevi.

METHODS

We report on a multicenter, cross-sectional study conducted between June 2012 and September 2015. The follow-up time was approximately 3 to 5 years. Blood was drawn from participants presenting with a uveal nevus (n = 10), localized uveal melanoma (n = 50), or metastatic uveal melanoma (n = 5). Levels of 17 miRNAs were measured in blood samples of study participants using a sensitive real-time PCR system.

RESULTS

A panel of six miRNAs (miR-16, miR-145, miR-146a, miR-204, miR-211, and miR-363-3p) showed significant differences between participants with uveal nevi compared with patients with localized and metastatic uveal melanoma. Importantly, miR-211 was able to accurately distinguish metastatic disease from localized uveal melanoma (P < 0.0001; area under the curve = 0.96). When the six-miRNA panel was evaluated as a group it had the ability to identify uveal melanoma when four or more miRNAs (93% sensitivity and 100% specificity) reached or exceeded their cut-point.

CONCLUSIONS

This miRNA panel, in tandem with clinical findings, may be suited to confirm benign lesions. In addition, due to the panel's high precision in identifying malignancy, it has the potential to augment melanoma detection in subsequent clinical follow-up of lesions with atypical clinical features.

TRANSLATIONAL RELEVANCE

Uveal nevi mimic the appearance of uveal melanoma and their transformation potential cannot be definitively determined without a biopsy. This panel is most relevant at the nevus stage and in lesions with uncertain malignant potential as a companion diagnostic tool to assist in clinical decision-making.

Preliminary results of a semi-automated platform for pixel-based quantification of choroidal naevus progression

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a novel method for choroidal naevus progression monitoring using semiautomated software for pixel-based quantification.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with choroidal melanotic lesions. In total, 87 eyes fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The progression of the choroidal lesions was evaluated by 2 masked and independent investigators. Total naevus area was measured on fundoscopic images using ImageJ semiautomated segmentation at baseline examination and 5 years later. The efficacy of our method was also tested on a separate patient group applying test-retest analysis.

RESULTS

Pixel-based analysis for objective quantification, displayed high repeatability, and reliability. We identified 4 cases of naevus size progression using the described semiautomated technique, while only 2 cases of progression were reported by simple observation. The novel method performance displayed 50% increased sensitivity over simple observation and 100% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

The presented method of displayed higher sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional observation and photograph qualification. Our results imply that the proposed methodology may be applicable as an accurate, easily employed diagnostic tool for the early detection of size progression in melanotic choroidal lesions.