Iris Melanosis/Melanoma

What is it? 
Iris melanosis is a brown pigment change to the iris resulting from melanocytes. Iris melanosis is benign but can quickly turn to melanoma which is malignant. The first sign is a brown spot or a “freckle” on the iris.

What are possible complications of melanosis/melanom?
There are no complications associated with iris melanos

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Symptoms

Symptoms can include a brown color change to the iris. Pets with melanosis are not painful. Melanomas are not typically painful until the end stages of the disease. ​

Treatment

There is no way to guarantee that iris melanosis is not going to transform to a melanoma. Frequent rechecks with your veterinarian for any change is very important. If melanoma is suspected due to rapid color change or raised areas, enucleation or removal of the eye with biopsy may be recommended as well as chest x-rays to look metastasis.