About Eye Cancer
As with most cancers, the cause of eye cancer is mutation of the DNA of eye cells that cause abnormal, uncontrolled growth. The exact causes of eye cancers are not known, however, there are factors associated with eye cancer.
Non-modifiable risk factors are factors that cannot be changed or controlled. Non-modifiable risk factors for eye cancer include:
- Race: The risk of eye melanoma is higher in white people than in African Americans, Hispancis, or Asian Americans.
- Eye color: The risk of uveal melanoma is higher in people with light colored eyes, such as blue or green.
- Older age: Older people are more likely to develop eye cancer.
- Certain inherited conditions: Conditions such as dysplastic nevus syndrome, oculodermal melanocytosis, and BAP1 cancer syndrome may increase a person's risk.
- Family history: Having immediate family with a history of eye cancer can also increase a person's risk.
Modifiable risk factors are factors that can be influenced or changed. Modifiable risk factors for eye cancer have not been identified. They potentially may include sunlight exposure, particular occupations such as welding, and history of skin melanoma. However, more research is needed to determine if these factors are related to eye cancer and can be modified to reduce the risk of developing eye cancers.
Remember, it's always best to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and recommendations.
People may not always have symptoms of eye cancer in early stages. Symptoms also may be common to many conditions, including aging. The following are symptoms that may be associated with eye cancer:
- Blurry vision or sudden loss of vision
- Floaters (seeing spots or wavy lines) or flashes of light
- Losing part of the field of sight
- A growing dark spot on the iris of the eye (the colored part of the eye)
- Change in the size or shape of the pupil of the eye (the dark spot in the center of the eye)
- The eyeball bulging from the socket
- One eye drifting in a different direction
It's important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to eye cancer and can be caused by other conditions as well. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
To diagnose eye cancer, doctors may perform several examinations, tests, and procedures. These may include:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: Your eye doctor will examine your eyes for any structural abnormalities or signs of cancer. They will use special scopes and other equipment to examine the outside and inside of the eye.
- Imaging Tests: Additional imaging tests may be ordered to get a better look at your eyes and surrounding tissues. These tests may include:
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the eye.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Uses light waves to provide a cross-sectional view of the retina.
- Fluorescein Angiography: Involves using a fluorescent dye to examine blood vessel growth or other eye conditions.
- CT Scan: Creates cross-sectional images of your body, including the eye, using X-rays.
- MRI Scan: Uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed images.
- Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. A small sample of the eye tumor is taken and sent to a lab for analysis.
- Blood Tests: Blood tests may be done to look for genetic markers specific to certain types of eye cancer.
It's important to consult with your doctor about which examinations, tests, and procedures are appropriate for your individual situation. They will be able to provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs.
The goals of treatment for eye cancer vary depending on factors such as the type and stage of the tumor, as well as individual preferences and overall health. The main treatment options for eye cancer include:
- Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses ionizing radiation to kill cancer cells. It can be delivered through plaque therapy, where a thin piece of irradiated metal is temporarily sewn to the eye, or external beam radiation, where directed radiation is delivered from outside the body. The goal is to destroy cancer cells and preserve vision.
- Laser Therapy: Laser therapy uses laser energy to kill cancer cells. It may be used as an additional treatment after plaque therapy. The goal is to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves using extreme cold to kill cancer cells. The goal is to freeze and destroy the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs that disrupt the growth and division of cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells throughout the body.
- Surgery: Surgical procedures may involve removing the tumor and a small amount of surrounding tissue, enucleation (removal of the eyeball), or more extensive removal of the eyeball, eyelid, and surrounding tissue. The goal is to remove the cancerous tissue.
It's important to note that specific treatments may vary depending on individual circumstances. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding treatment options for eye cancer.