Which feature is more consistent with an ocular nevus rather than melanoma?

Which feature is more consistent with an ocular nevus rather than melanoma?

• A. Drusen and a hypo pigmented halo
• B. Subretinal fluid and orange pigment
• C. Flashes and floaters
• D. Diameter >6 mm and depth >2 mm

Answer: (A)

The main idea is how to distinguish a benign ocular nevus from melanoma by looking at characteristic retinal signs. Drusen around a nevus are small deposits that commonly accompany stable, non-aggressive lesions, and a hypo-pigmented halo reflects surrounding pigment epithelium changes without infiltration. Together, these features point to a benign nevus rather than malignancy. In contrast, melanoma tends to show subretinal fluid from tumor exudation and orange pigment (lipofuscin) on the lesion, signaling active growth. Larger size and greater depth also raise concern for melanoma, while flashes and floaters are nonspecific symptoms that can occur with various conditions. Hence, the presence of drusen with a hypo-pigmented halo best fits a nevus.

The main idea is how to distinguish a benign ocular nevus from melanoma by looking at characteristic retinal signs. Drusen around a nevus are small deposits that commonly accompany stable, non-aggressive lesions, and a hypo-pigmented halo reflects surrounding pigment epithelium changes without infiltration. Together, these features point to a benign nevus rather than malignancy. In contrast, melanoma tends to show subretinal fluid from tumor exudation and orange pigment (lipofuscin) on the lesion, signaling active growth. Larger size and greater depth also raise concern for melanoma, while flashes and floaters are nonspecific symptoms that can occur with various conditions. Hence, the presence of drusen with a hypo-pigmented halo best fits a nevus.