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Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

Oculodermal melanocytosis (nevus of Ota)

Oculodermal melanocytosis (nevus of Ota)

Category(ies): Glaucoma, Pediatrics
Contributor: Jesse Vislisel, MD
Photographer: Brice Critser, CRA

Oculodermal melanocytosis, also known as nevus of Ota, is a condition of excessive pigmentation of the uvea, sclera, episclera, and eyelids secondary to an increase in the number of normal melanocytes. When the eyelids are not involved, it is called ocular melanocytosis

The condition results in a slate grey discoloration of the sclera and eyelids, and variable amounts of iris and fundus hyperpigmentation. It can be associated with glaucoma and rarely melanoma. Note the discoloration of the sclera, palpebral conjunctiva, and eyelids in these photographs.