Ocular oncology focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of eye cancer, a rare but serious condition that affects various parts of the eye. Early detection and specialized care are crucial for preserving both vision and overall eye health. Eye tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and their impact depends on the type, size, and location of the growth.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an eye tumor, expert care from an experienced specialist can help manage the condition effectively.

Types of Eye Cancer

1. Intraocular Cancers (Inside the Eye)

• Uveal Melanoma – The most common primary eye cancer in adults, affecting the iris, ciliary body, or choroid.
• Retinoblastoma – A rare but serious cancer that primarily affects children, developing in the retina.
• Intraocular Lymphoma – A type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that affects the eye’s tissues.

2. Extraocular Cancers (Around the Eye)

• Eyelid Tumors – Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are the most common types.
• Conjunctival Melanoma – A rare but aggressive cancer of the conjunctiva, the outer membrane of the eye.
• Orbital Tumors – Affecting the tissues surrounding the eye, including lacrimal gland tumors.

Signs and Symptoms of Eye Cancer

Early symptoms of ocular tumors may be subtle, making regular eye exams essential for early detection. Common warning signs include:

• Blurred vision or vision loss
• Dark spots or growths on the iris or conjunctiva
• Bulging of the eye (proptosis)
• Floaters or flashes of light
• A change in pupil size or shape
• Persistent eye pain or redness

Diagnosis of Eye Cancer

Early detection is key to successful treatment. If an eye tumor is suspected, an ophthalmologist or ocular oncologist may recommend:

• Dilated Eye Exam – To inspect the retina, choroid, and other internal structures.
• Ultrasound Imaging – To assess tumor size and location.
• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) – Provides detailed imaging of retinal layers.
• Fluorescein Angiography – Highlights abnormal blood vessels.
• Biopsy or Fine-Needle Aspiration – To confirm malignancy in certain cases.

Treatment Options for Eye Cancer

The best treatment approach depends on the tumor type, size, and location. Options include:

1. Radiation Therapy

• Plaque Brachytherapy – A small radioactive plaque is placed on the tumor to destroy cancer cells.
• External Beam Radiation – Used for larger or more aggressive tumors.

2. Laser Therapy

• Photocoagulation or Thermotherapy – Used for small tumors, targeting cancer cells with laser energy.

3. Surgery

• Tumor Excision – Removal of localized tumors while preserving the eye.
• Enucleation (Eye Removal) – Required in advanced cases where vision cannot be saved.

4. Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy – Used for retinoblastoma and certain metastatic cancers.

Expert Care for Eye Cancer

If you or a loved one is facing ocular cancer, expert care from an oculoplasty and ocular oncology specialist is essential for the best possible outcome. Dr. Jyoti Batra Ohri, a highly skilled Ophthalmologist and Oculoplasty Surgeon, provides advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment for eye tumors.

Schedule a consultation today to discuss the best treatment options and protect your vision.