Primary Orbital Melanoma: A Systematic Review of Clinical Characteristics, Management and Outcomes.
Int Ophthalmol ClinSep 24, 2026 (epub)
Antonia Vieira Vender, Kaveh Vahdani, Geoffrey E Rose
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review evaluated clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of 112 patients with histopathologically confirmed primary orbital melanoma (POM). The study found that local recurrence occurred in 21% and metastasis in 39% of cases. Notably, adjuvant radiotherapy was associated with improved survival (HR=0.23; P=0.006).
Key findings
- Local recurrence occurred in 21% of patients and metastasis in 39%.
- 5-year overall survival showed a trend favoring melanocytosis-associated tumors (74% vs 44%; P=0.058).
- Adjuvant radiotherapy was associated with improved survival (HR=0.23; P=0.006).
- Globe-sparing surgery was performed in 47% of cases.
Why it matters
Understanding the clinical characteristics and outcomes of primary orbital melanoma can guide treatment decisions and improve patient management. The findings highlight the potential benefits of adjuvant radiotherapy and the importance of tumor classification.