Eye cancer encompasses malignant tumours of the eyelids, conjunctiva, uvea, retina, and orbit. Early diagnosis is crucial to preserve life and, where possible, vision.
Examples and warning signs
Different tissues give rise to distinct cancers.
- Uveal melanoma in adults and retinoblastoma in children
- Eyelid tumours such as basal cell, squamous cell, and sebaceous carcinoma
- Conjunctival squamous neoplasia and melanoma
- Symptoms including a changing pigmented lesion, new lump, distorted pupil, or white pupil in a child
Diagnosis and treatment
Specialist care in ocular oncology centres is often required.
- Imaging, ultrasound, and sometimes biopsy to define the lesion
- Local therapies such as plaque radiotherapy, laser, or excision
- Enucleation or exenteration in advanced or painful disease
- Systemic staging and oncologic follow-up for metastatic risk
