Eye Freckle (Nevus): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of an eye freckle?

An eye freckle, or choroidal nevus, often does not cause any symptoms and is usually discovered during a routine eye examination. However, in some cases, a person with a choroidal nevus may experience the following symptoms:

1. Blurred vision: If the freckle is located in a certain part of the eye that affects central vision, it may cause blurred vision.
2. Visual disturbances: Some people may experience visual disturbances such as seeing flashing lights, shadows, or spots in their vision.
3. Changes in vision: Any changes in vision, such as the appearance of new floaters or flashes of light, should be evaluated by an eye care professional.

It’s important to note that most choroidal nevi are benign and do not require treatment. However, regular monitoring by an eye care professional is recommended to detect any changes in the freckle that may indicate a more serious condition, such as choroidal melanoma.

What are the causes of an eye freckle?

An eye freckle, also known as a choroidal nevus, is caused by the clustering of pigmented cells (melanocytes) in the choroid, which is the layer of tissue beneath the retina. The exact cause of choroidal nevi is not fully understood, but they are thought to develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Risk factors for developing a choroidal nevus include:

1. Age: Choroidal nevi are more common in older individuals.
2. Light eye color: People with lighter eye colors, such as blue or green, may be at a higher risk.
3. Sun exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight or UV radiation may play a role in the development of choroidal nevi.
4. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to developing choroidal nevi, although more research is needed in this area.

Choroidal nevi are typically benign and do not require treatment. However, regular monitoring by an eye care professional is recommended to detect any changes that may indicate a more serious condition, such as choroidal melanoma.

How is the diagnosis of a choroidal nevus made?

The diagnosis of a choroidal nevus is typically made during a comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The following steps are usually involved in diagnosing a choroidal nevus:

1. Visual acuity test: This test measures how well you can see at various distances.
2. Slit-lamp examination: A slit lamp is a microscope with a bright light that allows the eye care professional to examine the structures of your eye, including the choroid.
3. Dilated eye exam: Your eye care professional will use eye drops to dilate your pupils, allowing them to get a better view of the back of your eye, including the choroid and retina.
4. Fundus photography: This involves taking detailed photographs of the inside of your eye, which can help track any changes in the choroidal nevus over time.
5. Fluorescein angiography: In this test, a special dye is injected into your arm and travels to the blood vessels in your eye. A camera takes pictures of the dye as it flows through the blood vessels, which can help identify any abnormalities.
6. Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This imaging test uses light waves to create cross-sectional images of the retina and choroid, allowing your eye care professional to assess the thickness and structure of the nevus.

If a choroidal nevus is suspected, your eye care professional will monitor it over time to check for any changes that may indicate a more serious condition, such as choroidal melanoma.

What is the treatment for an eye freckle?

In most cases, no treatment is necessary for an eye freckle, also known as a choroidal nevus, as these are typically benign and do not cause vision problems. However, regular monitoring by an eye care professional is recommended to detect any changes in the nevus that may indicate a more serious condition, such as choroidal melanoma.

If the nevus shows signs of growth or other concerning changes, your eye care professional may recommend additional tests or treatment options, which may include:

1. Photographic monitoring: Regular fundus photography or other imaging techniques may be used to monitor changes in the size or shape of the nevus over time.
2. Ultrasound imaging: This test uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the eye and can help determine if the nevus is growing into the eye.
3. Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to remove a small sample of tissue from the nevus for further examination.
4. Surgery: If the nevus is determined to be a choroidal melanoma or if there is a risk of it becoming malignant, surgery may be recommended to remove the tumor.

It’s important to follow your eye care professional’s recommendations for monitoring and treatment to ensure early detection and appropriate management of any changes in the choroidal nevus.