Nevus
Overview
A nevus is typically a flat,
benign, pigmented area that may appear inside the eye or on its
surface. Nevi commonly
appear on the choroid (the layer just behind the
retina), the
iris, and the
conjunctiva.
Nevi are similar to freckles, and don’t typically change or
grow.
Signs and Symptoms
-
Brownish, freckle-like spot
-
Usually flat
Detection and
Diagnosis
Nevi of the conjunctiva or iris can be detected with a
slit lamp microscope. If the nevus occurs within the eye, it is evaluated with an
ophthalmoscope.
Treatment
Nevi are usually harmless, but it’s always wise to monitor them for
changes. This can be
done with photos and sometimes ultrasound.
The doctor will document the size, shape and whether the
nevus is elevated. In rare cases, the nevus must be biopsied and examined for
melanoma (cancer) cells.
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