calcific drusen
Pronunciation: kal-SIF-ik DROO-zen
Calcium deposits overlying choroidal melanomas, appearing as bright echogenic foci on ultrasonography. Important differential diagnostic feature distinguishing from choroidal nevus.
Full Definition
Calcium carbonate deposits that form overlying choroidal melanomas, appearing as hyperechogenic spots on B-scan ultrasonography and sometimes visible ophthalmoscopically as yellowish deposits. Calcific drusen are more commonly associated with malignant choroidal melanomas than benign nevi, making them an important diagnostic feature in tumor evaluation. Their presence helps differentiate between benign and malignant choroidal lesions during clinical assessment.
Usage
Usage note: 'Drusen' is both singular and plural. Specify location (choroidal vs. retinal) to avoid confusion.
In Context
- "Ultrasonography demonstrated calcific drusen overlying the choroidal mass." — diagnostic imaging report
- "The presence of calcific drusen supported the diagnosis of choroidal melanoma." — clinical assessment note