Ocular Cancer
Ocular cancer refers to any type of cancer that affects the eye. It can occur in various parts of the eye, including the eyelid, conjunctiva, cornea, iris, ciliary body, choroid, retina, and optic nerve.
Types of Ocular Cancer
- Melanoma: The most common type of ocular cancer in adults, which arises from the pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It can occur in the iris, ciliary body, or choroid.
- Retinoblastoma: A rare type of eye cancer that typically affects children under the age of 5. It originates in the retina and can be hereditary or non-hereditary.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that arises from the immune cells called lymphocytes. It can affect the eye, including the eyelid, conjunctiva, and orbit.
- Medulloepithelioma: A rare type of cancer that occurs in the ciliary body or retina.
- Conjunctival carcinoma: A type of cancer that affects the conjunctiva, which is the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and inside of the eyelids.
Symptoms of Ocular Cancer
- Pain or discomfort in the eye
- Blurred vision or loss of vision
- Floaters or flashes of light
- A growing lump or bump on the eyelid or in the eye
- Change in the shape of the pupil
- Redness or swelling of the eye or eyelid
- Loss of eyelashes or misdirected eyelash growth
Causes and Risk Factors of Ocular Cancer
- Genetic mutations, such as those that cause retinoblastoma
- Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds
- Family history of ocular cancer
- Prior radiation therapy to the head or neck
- Certain medical conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 1
Diagnosis and Treatment of Ocular Cancer
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
- Biopsy to examine tissue samples under a microscope
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor or affected eye
- Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
- Chemotherapy to target cancer cells throughout the body
- Cryotherapy to freeze and destroy cancer cells
- Laser therapy to destroy cancer cells with high-energy light
Prognosis and Survival Rates of Ocular Cancer
The prognosis and survival rates for ocular cancer vary depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the individual. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Article last updated on: 28th April 2025.
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