Eye Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Eye cancer, though relatively rare, can significantly affect vision and overall quality of life. Early detection is crucial to successful treatment, yet many people are unaware of its warning signs or risk factors.
This article provides a detailed overview of what eye cancer is, the types that affect both adults and children, symptoms to watch for, available treatments, and preventive measures you can take to protect your eyes.
What Is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer, also called ocular cancer, refers to tumours that originate in or spread to the eye. It may begin in the eyeball, the orbit (eye socket), or the eye appendages like the eyelids and tear glands.
Eye cancer is classified as either:
- Primary eye cancer: Starts within the eye itself.
- Secondary eye cancer: Spreads to the eye from other parts of the body, such as the lungs, breasts, or skin.
Parts of the Eye Affected by Cancer
To understand eye cancer, it's important to know the major parts of the eye where it can develop:
- Sclera: The white outer layer of the eyeball.
- Uvea: The middle layer comprising the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.
- Retina: The light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.
- Orbit: The bony socket surrounding the eye, including muscles and nerves.
- Appendages: Eyelids and tear glands that support eye function.
Types of Eye Cancer
1. Intraocular Melanoma (Adults)
The most common eye cancer in adults, intraocular melanoma usually begins in the choroid part of the uvea. It often goes undetected in early stages due to minimal symptoms.
2. Intraocular Lymphoma
Often found in older adults, intraocular lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that affects the retina or vitreous body and can be associated with brain lymphoma.
3. Retinoblastoma (Children)
The most common form of eye cancer in children, retinoblastoma is a genetic condition affecting the retina and typically develops before age five. It can affect one or both eyes.
4. Medulloepithelioma
A rare form of eye cancer found in children that originates in the ciliary body.
5. Secondary Eye Cancers
These cancers start elsewhere in the body, such as the breast or lung, and metastasise to the eye. They are more common than primary eye cancers.
How Common Is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer is rare. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 3,320 people were diagnosed with primary intraocular cancer in the US in 2021, with around 400 deaths. Although uncommon, it can be aggressive if not treated early.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Many people with early-stage eye cancer do not experience symptoms. As the tumour grows, symptoms may include:
- Blurred or loss of vision
- Flashes of light or floaters
- A visible dark spot on the iris
- Changes in pupil size or shape
- Bulging of the eye
- Redness or irritation that doesn't go away
- Limited eye movement
Note: Eye cancer is typically not painful unless the tumour is very large or has spread.
Risk Factors for Eye Cancer
Several factors may increase the risk of developing eye cancer:
- Light eye colour (blue or green)
- Older age (particularly 50+)
- Excessive UV radiation exposure
- Family history of eye cancer
- Genetic mutations, such as the RB1 gene for retinoblastoma
- Weakened immune system
- Presence of moles or freckles in the eye
Diagnosis of Eye Cancer
If eye cancer is suspected, an ophthalmologist may recommend the following tests:
- Ophthalmoscopy: Examination of the inside of the eye using a light and magnifier.
- Ultrasound: Imaging to detect tumours inside the eye.
- Fluorescein angiography: A dye test to view blood flow and abnormal vessels in the retina.
- Biopsy: Tissue samples are collected to confirm the cancer type.
- MRI or CT scans: To assess tumour size and spread to nearby tissues.
Treatment Options for Eye Cancer
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumour, as well as the patient’s overall health and vision requirements.
1. Observation (Watchful Waiting)
Small tumours that are not growing may be closely monitored without immediate treatment.
2. Surgery
Options range from tumour removal to removing part or all of the eye:
- Iridectomy: Removal of part of the iris
- Enucleation: Removal of the entire eyeball (used for large or painful tumours)
- Orbital exenteration: Removal of the eye and surrounding tissues
3. Radiation Therapy
High-energy beams used to shrink or kill cancer cells. Types include:
- Brachytherapy: Radioactive plaque placed on the eye
- External beam radiation: Focused radiation from outside the body
4. Laser Therapy
Laser photocoagulation or thermotherapy is sometimes used for small tumours.
5. Chemotherapy
More common for retinoblastoma or metastatic cancers. Can be systemic (IV) or local (intra-arterial or intravitreal).
Living with Eye Cancer
Living with eye cancer may include physical and emotional challenges, particularly if vision is lost. Key support strategies include:
- Wearing prosthetic eyes if the eye is removed
- Vision rehabilitation
- Counselling or therapy for coping emotionally
- Joining eye cancer support groups
Prevention Tips
Though not all eye cancers are preventable, the following can help reduce risk:
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses outdoors
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure
- Regular eye check-ups, especially if you have moles or freckles in the eye
- Know your family history and seek genetic counselling if needed
Final Thoughts
While eye cancer is rare, early diagnosis greatly improves the chances of saving your vision and preventing cancer spread. Be vigilant about changes in your vision or eye appearance, and schedule regular visits with your ophthalmologist.
For more on eye health and related conditions, explore our health section.
FAQs
Can eye cancer be cured?
Yes, especially when detected early. Treatment success rates are high for small, localised tumours.
Is eye cancer painful?
Usually not in early stages. Pain may occur as the tumour grows or if the eye is pressured or damaged.
Does eye cancer always lead to blindness?
No. Many patients retain partial or full vision, depending on tumour size and location.
Who is at highest risk?
People over 50, with fair skin or light-coloured eyes, or with genetic conditions like retinoblastoma are at increased risk.
How often should I get my eyes checked?
Every 1–2 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors.