Eye melanoma: cancer of the eye

Eye melanoma: cancer of the eye        

Eye melanoma, also known as ocular melanoma, is a rare type of cancer that originates in the cells that produce pigment in the eye. Risk factors for this disease include having fair skin, having blue or green eyes, being exposed to UV radiation, and having a family history of the condition. Symptoms of eye melanoma may involve blurry vision, flashes of light or dark spots in one's vision, alteration of the pupil's shape, or a dark spot on the iris. Diagnosis involves an extensive eye exam, imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound scans, and a biopsy of the growth. Treatment options are contingent on the size and location of the tumor and general health; these may include surgery to remove it, radiation therapy, or laser therapy. In more extreme cases enucleation (removal) of the eye may be necessary. Prognosis is largely dependent upon whether cancer has spread beyond the eye - if it has not spread then five-year survival rates are approximately 80%. Prevention is possible through protecting eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses and hats when outside and avoiding tanning beds; additionally regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist can help detect any changes in the eyes.


0 Comments