Choroidal neovascular membrane in a series of cases of malignant melanoma of the choroid

Purpose: To examine a series of choroidal melanoma specimens to determine the frequency of overlying choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and to ascertain whether CNV over choroidal malignant melanoma is associated with any particular histological tumour characteristics. Methods: We carried out a retrospective histological analysis of globes containing choroidal melanomas for evidence of choroidal neovascular membranes. Results: Microscopic evidence of choroidal neovascular membranes was evident in 6% of cases. Choroidal neovascularization was not associated with any particular histological tumour characteristic. Conclusion: Choroidal neovascularization over choroidal malignant melanoma is not an infrequent occurrence and possibly appears as frequently as CNV over choroidal naevi. The presence of a choroidal neovascular membrane over a pigmented fundal lesion should not be taken as reassurance that the lesion is benign.