Why is annual monitoring recommended for an ocular nevus?

• A. To ensure there is no change in size, shape, or color
• B. To measure changes in intraocular pressure
• C. To monitor for cataract progression
• D. To evaluate refractive error

Answer: (A)

Annual monitoring for an ocular nevus focuses on detecting signs that the lesion may be changing into melanoma. A nevus is usually benign, but transformation risk exists, and the earliest clues are changes in size, shape, or color. If the lesion enlarges, develops an irregular border, or acquires new coloration such as orange pigment, these are red flags that warrant closer evaluation and possible referral to ocular oncology. Regular exams—often with dilated fundus exams, serial photography, and imaging like OCT or ultrasound—help quantify any change over time and catch progression early.

Intraocular pressure, cataract progression, and refractive error are not direct indicators of nevus transformation, so they aren’t the purpose of annual nevus monitoring. The key idea is to watch for changes that signal growth or malignant potential, enabling timely action.