A tumor is a new growth of tissue in which the cells multiply and grow uncontrolled. Tumors may be benign or malignant. A benign tumor is composed of cells that grow abnormally but do not usually invade local tissues or spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body. A malignant tumor or cancer contains cells that grow uncontrolled and invade surrounding areas or spread. A choroidal melanoma is a malignant tumor composed of melanocytes pigment (coloring matter) containing and producing cells normally present in the choroid (the pigmented vascular layer beneath the retina). If ignored, this type of tumor may spread to areas around the eye or metastasize to distant areas of the body (i.e., the liver or lung) and can cause death. Early detection and treatment may prevent these devastating events.
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