Eye Cancer: What It Is, How to Spot It, and Treatment Basics
If you hear the term “eye cancer,” your mind might jump straight to scary movies. In reality, it’s a rare condition that mostly shows up as a growth inside or on the surface of the eye. Most people never develop it, but knowing the signs can save vision.
What Exactly Is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer covers any malignant tumor that starts in ocular tissue. The most common type is uveal melanoma, which begins in the pigmented layer called the uvea. Less often you’ll see retinoblastoma (mainly in kids) or lymphoma affecting the eye socket.
The disease doesn’t usually cause pain right away. Instead, you might notice a new spot on your iris, a change in eye color, or something that looks like a freckle on the white part of the eye. If you start seeing flashes, floaters, or a sudden drop in vision, it could be a red flag.
How to Detect and Treat Eye Cancer
The first step is an eye exam with an ophthalmologist who can use tools like slit‑lamp microscopy or ultrasound. These tests help doctors see if a lesion is harmless or needs more attention.
If cancer is confirmed, treatment depends on size, location and whether it has spread. Small tumors might be removed with laser therapy (photocoagulation) or radiation such as plaque brachytherapy, where a tiny radioactive source sits right next to the tumor for a few days.
For larger or aggressive cases, surgeons may perform enucleation, which means removing the eye to stop the cancer from spreading. Modern prosthetic options make life after surgery look and feel more natural.
When the disease has spread beyond the eye, doctors add systemic therapies—chemo, immunotherapy or targeted drugs that chase cancer cells around the body. Clinical trials are also a good avenue if standard options aren’t enough.
After treatment, regular follow‑ups matter. Scans every few months can catch any new growth early, and eye doctors will check your vision and overall eye health each visit.
If you notice anything odd—new spots, visual changes, or a feeling that something’s off—don’t wait. Schedule an appointment right away. Early detection gives the best chance to keep your sight and stay healthy.
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