Ultrasound biomicroscopy in the diagnosis and management of anterior segment tumors.

BACKGROUND

High-frequency ultrasound biomicroscopy has allowed eye care specialists to evaluate posterior extension of anterior segment tumors. This article evaluates the role of ultrasound biomicroscopy for the diagnosis and management of anterior segment tumors.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with anterior segment tumors were selected for evaluation. Each patient underwent a complete clinical examination followed by slit-lamp photography and ultrasound biomicroscopy.

RESULTS

Unlike standard ultrasonography of anterior segment tumors, high-frequency ultrasound biomicroscopy allowed quantitative measurements of tumor size, extension within and posterior to the iris, as well as differentiation of solid and cystic lesions. These characteristics were used to differentially diagnose anterior segment tumors and document the response of iridociliary body melanomas to radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates how ultrasound biomicroscopy has become an effective and necessary procedure, used for both the diagnosis and management of anterior segment tumors.