Medically Reviewed By:
Last Updated on May 22, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Eye cancer encompasses any form of cancer originating in the eye, whereby the uncontrolled growth of cells marks the onset of the disease. Melanoma is one of the most common types of eye cancers. However, there are various other types of eye cancers that target different cell types within the eye. It is diagnosed through comprehensive evaluation including eye exams, imaging, and biopsies. Staging determines its spread. Doctors use treatments like surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy to preserve vision and minimise complications. Regular follow-up is vital. In this article, we will explain the ways to diagnose eye cancer, the process of staging it and its treatment.
How is eye cancer diagnosed?
Doctors conduct a thorough diagnostic process to confirm the presence of cancer, determine its type, and assess its stage. The initial step involves a comprehensive eye examination. This examination includes visual acuity tests to assess vision and ophthalmoscopy to examine the structures inside the eye. They also use specialised instruments like slit lamps or gonioscopy lenses to evaluate the tumour’s characteristics.
Imaging tests play a crucial role in diagnosing and staging eye cancer. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the eye and surrounding tissues. This provides valuable information about the size and location of the tumour. Another imaging technique is optical coherence tomography (OCT), which is non-invasive. It produces detailed cross-sectional images of the eye’s layers, aiding in the evaluation of tumour depth and involvement. Fluorescein angiography involves injecting a dye into a vein to examine the blood vessels in the eye, helping to identify any abnormal blood vessel growth associated with tumours.
To determine the extent of the cancer and its spread to other parts of the body, doctors may perform additional tests. These can include chest X-rays to check for lung metastasis and computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide detailed images of the eye and surrounding structures.
Biopsy, the removal of a small tissue sample for examination, is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis of eye cancer and identify its specific type. A pathologist then examines the sample under a microscope to determine the presence of cancer cells and their characteristics.
Doctors may also ask to conduct blood tests to assess certain markers or substances that can help in staging cancer and evaluating its potential spread.
By utilising a combination of these diagnostic methods, doctors can accurately diagnose eye cancer, determine its specific type (such as melanoma or lymphoma), and stage cancer. It is essential for developing an appropriate and effective treatment plan tailored to the individual patient.
How is eye cancer staged?
Staging of eye cancer depends on the tumour type and location, assessing factors like tumour size, spread within the eye, involvement of nearby tissues, and presence of metastasis. Iris melanoma staging follows these categories:
- Stage I: Cancer cells are confined to the iris.
- Stage II: Cancer cells spread to the ciliary body or choroid.
- Stage III: Cancer cells extend into the sclera.
- Stage IV: Cancer cells spread beyond the eye. Stage IV may also indicate the involvement of nearby lymph nodes or distant parts of the body in the case of iris, ciliary body, and choroidal melanomas.
How is eye cancer treated?
Doctors mostly treat eye cancer through surgery, radiation therapy, laser therapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, and targeted drugs.
Treatment options for eye cancer vary based on the type and stage of the cancer. They may include
- Surgery: A surgeon may remove the tumour or affected eye (enucleation) or treat with techniques such as local tumour resection or orbital exenteration.
- Radiation therapy: Targetted high-energy radiation at the tumor to kill cancer cells or shrink the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: Doctors give medications to destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. Chemotherapy administration is possible orally, intravenously, or directly to the eye.
- Targeted therapy: Specific drugs target cancer cells based on their genetic or molecular characteristics.
- Immunotherapy: Stimulation of the immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells.
Disclaimer: Medical Science is an ever evolving field. We strive to keep this page updated. In case you notice any discrepancy in the content, please inform us at [email protected]. You can futher read our Correction Policy here. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on or accessed through this website or it's social media channels. Read our Full Disclaimer Here for further information.
