What is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer, also known as ocular cancer, refers to malignant tumors that develop in or around the eye. It can affect various parts of the eye structure and may originate in the eye (primary) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary).
Types of Eye Cancer
Primary Eye Cancers
-
Uveal Melanoma
- Most common primary eye cancer in adults
- Develops from pigment-producing cells
- Affects the iris, ciliary body, or choroid
-
Retinoblastoma
- Most common in young children
- Affects the retina's light-sensitive cells
- Can be hereditary
Secondary Eye Cancers
- Breast cancer spread
- Lung cancer spread
- Other metastatic cancers
Risk Factors
- Age (varies by type)
- Light-colored eyes
- Certain genetic conditions
- UV light exposure
- Family history
Common Symptoms
- Vision changes or loss
- Floating spots in vision
- Eye pain
- A dark spot on the iris
- Bulging of the eye
- Loss of peripheral vision
Diagnosis Methods
- Eye examination
- Ultrasound
- Fluorescein angiography
- CT or MRI scans
- Biopsy (when necessary)
Treatment Options
Local Treatments
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Laser therapy
- Cryotherapy
Systemic Treatments
- Chemotherapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Prognosis and Follow-up
- Regular monitoring required
- Survival rates vary by type and stage
- Vision rehabilitation when needed
Living with Eye Cancer
- Regular check-ups
- Vision aids and support
- Emotional support resources
- Lifestyle modifications
Prevention
- UV protection
- Regular eye exams
- Genetic counseling when appropriate
- Awareness of family history