OCULAR MELANOMA - AN EXPERIMENTAL-MODEL IN NEW-ZEALAND WHITE-RABBITS

An experimental model is suggested for reproducing ocular melanoma in New Zealand white rabbits using B16 melanoma cells and protocols diffe ring with respect to either tumour origin (subcutaneous fragments of m elanoma B16 or B16-F10 tumour cell cultures) or implant site (the ante rior chamber or subchoroidal). In 20 animals, 20 mg of methylprednisol one acetate was injected subconjunctivally as a local immunosuppressan t. The only protocol resulting in tumour was inoculation of 4 x 10(6) B16-F10 melanocytes into the anterior chamber of the eye. Trans-sclera l injections of cell suspensions produced tumour growth in 43% (13/30) of animals so treated. Thirteen animals developed non-neoplastic pigm ented lesions formed of numerous melanophages. Another 19 animals show ed non-pigmented lesions caused by reaction to the surgical procedures . Subconjunctivally injected methylprednisolone acetate did not increa se the incidence of tumour growth.