Eye cancer

Eye cancer is a general term used to describe many types of tumors that can start in various parts of the eye. It occurs when healthy cells in or around the eye change and grow uncontrollably, forming a mass called a tumor. A tumor can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous, meaning it can spread to other parts of the body).

Types of Eye Cancer

There are several types of eye cancer, including:

• Uveal melanoma: This is the most common type of eye cancer in adults. It starts in the uvea, the middle layer of the eye.

• Retinoblastoma: This is a rare type of eye cancer that usually develops in early childhood, typically before the age of 5.

• Conjunctival melanoma: This type of eye cancer starts in the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that covers the inside of your eyelids and the white part of your eye.

Symptoms

Symptoms of eye cancer can include:

• Blurred vision or sudden loss of vision
• Floaters (spots or squiggles drifting in the field of vision) or flashes of light.
• A growing dark spot on the iris
• Change in the size or shape of the pupil
• Change in the position of the eyeball in the eye socket
• Bulging of the eye

Diagnosis

Eye cancer is often diagnosed by an ophthalmologist, a doctor who specializes in eye diseases. The doctor may use a variety of tests to diagnose eye cancer, including a physical exam, a review of the patient's medical history, and specialized tests such as an ultrasound, a CT scan, or a biopsy.

Treatment

Treatment for eye cancer depends on the type and stage of the cancer, the size and location of the tumor, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, laser therapy, or chemotherapy.

Prevention

While there is no sure way to prevent eye cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation, avoiding exposure to certain chemicals, and having regular eye exams.

See Also

• Cancer
• Melanoma
• Retinoblastoma
• Ophthalmology

Eye cancer Resources
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