Melanocytoma of the optic disc is a well known variant of melanocytic nevus that usually occurs as a deeply pigmented lesion on the head of the optic disc. Historically, this tumor has often been confused with malignant melanoma. Histopathologically, it is composed of deeply pigmented round oval cells with abundant cytoplasm and small, round, bland nuclei. Melanocytomas is a benign, stationary tumors, with almost no propensity to undergo malignant transformation. Most cases that occur on the optic disc are visually asymptomatic, but they can cause an afferent pupillary and visual field defects. Importantly, it can exhibit malignant transformation into melanoma in 1 to 2% of the cases. The affected patients should have periodic follow up.
Melanoma; Optic disk; Optic nerve neoplasms; Melanocytes; Diagnosis, differential; Review
