In some cases, the growth may be removed entirely. In other cases, the tumor may be removed along with nearby tissues, such as the eyelid or eye muscles. Choosing the best treatment option depends on the type of cancer and the patient’s preferences and priorities. Treatment options will help save or keep the eye while preventing cancer from spreading to nearby organs or tissues.
Radiation therapy is the most common treatment for cancer near the eye, which uses high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. To protect the eye from radiation, the ophthalmologist often puts a corneal shield between the globe and the lids. Other treatments, such as topical creams, are sometimes used. For example, topical imiquimod has shown promising results in treating basal cell carcinoma. Another treatment option is cryotherapy, which uses extreme cold to destroy cancer cells. The treatment is more invasive, but can preserve the eye.
Most eyelid cancers are not malignant, and usually are harmless. However, some forms of skin cancer can cause significant vision problems. If detected early, melanoma near the eye may be treatable. Early treatment is critical for treatment. The tumor is likely to have spread if not diagnosed. If left untreated, it can spread to other areas of the body and result in significant vision problems. Cancer near the eye is a serious medical condition that should be treated promptly.
The most common type of eye cancer is retinoblastoma, but other types of cancer of the retina can develop. Other types of cancer near the eye include sebaceous and basal cell carcinoma. Retinoblastoma, which affects children, is the most common eye cancer. It begins in the retina, the back portion of the eye. When the cancer is detected, the white reflection will show that the eye is affected.
To diagnose the disease, a specialist may use several imaging modalities. Ultrasound can measure the density of the mass and its features. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to detect fluid. The biopsy sample will reveal whether the cancer has spread or not. Patients who have the tumor near the eye may require imaging tests in the rest of the body. This treatment plan is dependent on the tumor’s location and its size. It is important to visit a specialized eye doctor if there is any concern.
The surgical treatment for cancer near the eye is based on the type of skin cancer present. Surgical excision is the primary treatment option for most nonmelanoma skin cancers near the eye. A specially trained dermatologic surgeon performs this procedure. It is a multistage procedure where the cancer is removed in layers with very little margin of healthy tissue. Patients undergo multiple rounds of this procedure until no cancer cells remain. Mohs surgery has a high cure rate and minimizes scarring.
Treatment for cancer near the eye depends on the type and stage of the cancer. Orbital lymphoma is the most common type of cancer that spreads to the orbit. Treatment includes surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Some types of radiation therapy have low levels of ocular toxicity, which makes this treatment less invasive. If you think you have cancer near the eye, see a doctor right away. You can save your sight by being treated at the earliest possible stage.
