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Eye

Uveal Melanomas

Uveal melanomas (also called choroidal melanomas) are malignant tumors of the eye. These tumors historically have been treated by complete removal of the eye. However, precise forms of radiation treatment have been used to minimize the need for removal. Protons have been used since the mid-1970s. Reports reveal control rates greater than 95 percent, with long-term survival consistent with survival rates for patients who have had their diseased eyes removed. Most proton patients have retained useful vision in their treated eyes. Results indicate that proton radiation is useful for medium and large tumors, as well as smaller lesions.