Melanoma-associated retinopathy: does autoimmunity prolong survival?

PURPOSE: To discuss the autoimmune basis of melanoma-associated retinopathy (MAR) and its implications for management and prognosis.

METHODS: An unusual history of a woman with melanoma-associated retinopathy is presented in detail. A review of published reports and a summary of 19 reported cases of MAR provide a basis for discussion.

RESULTS: This case report and other published reports highlight a number of points regarding MAR including the male predominance, prolonged survival in several patients and lack of response to immunosuppression.

CONCLUSIONS: Melanoma-associated retinopathy may prolong the survival of patients with metastatic melanoma through the autoimmune response. Therefore, treatment of visual symptoms with immunosuppression needs to be considered carefully.