Monitoring for Metastasis

Healthcare Providers Use DecisionDx®-UM to Predict Metastasis and Guide Follow-Up Care

We know that as many as half of uveal melanomas have metastasized by the time the eye tumor is discovered and treated. However, the cancer cells are so tiny that they go undetected by today’s imaging techniques—an event known as micrometastasis.  Most ocular oncologists use a prognostic test called DecisionDx®-UM to determine the likelihood that the cancer will metastasis (spread). Multiple recent studies have shown that this test is being used to match a patient’s risk to an appropriate surveillance plan.

For instance, according to these studies, if the tumor was identified as being at low (Class 1A) or intermediate (Class 1B) risk of metastasis, doctors recommended a low intensity surveillance program such as alternating between periodic liver function tests and ultrasound or MRI. If the tumor was at a high risk (Class 2), the doctors monitored for metastasis more frequently and used more advanced imaging such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans, along with liver function tests.

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If your doctor catches the spread (or metastasis) of your eye melanoma early or when it is still small, there are interventions that may be considered, including laparascopic radioablation, hepatic arterial perfusion chemoembolization, and surgical resection (removal).

The hope is that intensive monitoring for metastasis may lead to early detection and treatment that could produce better outcomes for patients. Along these lines, there are clinical trials for promising agents for patients whose eye melanoma is expected to spread based on their DecisionDx-UM result. This treatment to prevent spread of the tumor is called adjuvant therapy.  As always, decisions regarding the risk and benefits of specific surveillance and treatment plans are better decided between a patient and their physician.

Learn How DecisionDx®-UM
Can Help Determine
Your Personalized Risk

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Timing Is Critical – Talk With Your Doctor

Our Discussion Guide Will Help Determine If DecisionDx-UM Is Right for You

Hear From Other Patients

Learn How DecisionDx-UM Has Made a Significant Impact on the Lives of Other Uveal Melanoma Patients.

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What’s Next?

The Role of Genomic Testing

How Do You Get a
DecisionDx-UM Test?