A choroidal nevus is a flat (and often pigmented) "mole" inside the eye. A nevus is usually benign and dark in color. A choroidal nevus is found inside the eye within the choroidal vessel layer (deep to the retina). Think of a nevus as being similar to freckles or a mole.

Signs and Symptoms
brownish pigmented area on the choroid similar to a freckle
usually flat
usually does not grow

Diagnosis
Detection of a choroidal nevus can be detected with an ophthalmoscope, with ultrasonography, or with a fluorescein angiogram. Nevi of the iris or conjunctiva can be evaluated with a slit lamp.

Treatment
A choroidal nevus is often not a problem but your doctor will always monitor them for changes. Your doctor will follow the nevus using fundus photography or ultrasound. The size, shape, and elevation will be documented as rare cases can evolve into malignant melanomas. In very rare cases, the nevus may be biopsied to check for melanoma.

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