During the initial three weeks postoperatively, there was necrosis at the site of laser treatment. With time, sloughing of the treated area resulted in a smooth, functional eyelid margin. Using conventional surgical excision, a grafting procedure would have been necessary. Conjunctival melanomas have biological behavior that is often very different from other ocular melanomas. Aggressive surgical excision, including enucleation if necessary, is indicated.
Uveal melanomas represent the most common primary intraocular tumor.
These tumors appear as a densely pigmented, localized mass within the iris. In dogs, uveal melanomas are generally benign with a very low incidence of metastasis. In these cases, there are no options for treatment and, ultimately glaucoma occurs necessitating enucleation. Earlier iris melanomas in dogs can be successfully treated using diode laser photocoagulation with excellent results and preservation of vision. These photos illustrate a small iris melanoma in a 3 year old Labrador retriever.