Anti-VEGF is a medication used in this trial to prevent neovascular glaucoma in patients with large choroid melanoma who are undergoing proton therapy. It is administered through injections into the eye. The medication works by blocking a protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which can contribute to the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. By inhibiting VEGF, the medication aims to reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, a condition that can lead to vision loss.

Choroidal Melanoma – Choroidal melanoma is a type of cancer that occurs in the eye, specifically in the choroid, which is a layer of blood vessels between the retina and the sclera. It is characterized by the growth of malignant cells that can form a tumor. The tumor can vary in size, and in this context, it is described as being 7 mm thick or having a basal diameter of more than 15 mm. As the disease progresses, it can lead to complications such as vision loss or detachment of the retina. The growth of the tumor may also cause pressure within the eye, potentially leading to other eye conditions.

Neovascular Glaucoma – Neovascular glaucoma is a type of glaucoma that occurs when new, abnormal blood vessels grow on the iris and over the eye’s drainage channels. This growth can block the normal flow of fluid out of the eye, leading to increased intraocular pressure. The condition often develops as a complication of other eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy or retinal vein occlusion. As the disease progresses, the increased pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to vision loss. Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, and decreased vision.