The structures that make up the eyeball include the choroid, ciliary body, iris, and retina. The retina is a layer of cells in the back of the eye connected to the brain by an optic nerve. Retinal cells help us see and make images. Light enters the eye and travels through the lens and retina to reach the brain. The orbit houses important nerves and muscles that move the eye.
Most basal cell carcinomas can be surgically removed if detected early, but some patients refuse to accept the diagnosis and allow the tumor to spread behind the eye. Cancer near the eye is more difficult to diagnose if the tumor has spread into the eyelid tissue or has invaded the eye itself. In these cases, a combination of surgery and radiation may be needed. Some patients may develop both types of cancer. As a result, a thorough evaluation is crucial.
In the case of transitional cell carcinoma, radiation therapy is often used to treat the tumor. This form of treatment utilizes high energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells without harming the surrounding healthy tissue. It is important to note that a small tumor may not cause any symptoms and may be completely harmless. If it grows to be larger than 3 millimeters, doctors may recommend surgery to remove the eye. Other methods of treating cancer near the eye include cryotherapy and radiation therapy.
Malignant melanoma of the eyelid is a relatively rare form of skin cancer and accounts for less than 1% of all eyelid cancers. Lesions that develop in the eyelid are pigmented and brown. Symptoms may develop over time, so it is important to get an eye exam as soon as possible. Once detected, the tumor can become malignant and cause blindness. The best way to treat melanoma of the eyelid is to remove it.
In adults, the most common type of cancer in the orbit is lymphoma, which spreads to the eye’s orbit. The disease often manifests as a nodule in the eyelid or lacrimal gland and may cause the eye to bulge outward. In rare cases, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be used, depending on its location. But it is important to note that most cases of cancer near the eye are easily treatable.
During an eye cancer screening, your doctor will examine your eyes for movement, vision, and the appearance of the tumour. If you have symptoms of cancer, an ophthalmologist will recommend treatment based on the location of the tumour and its size. A multidisciplinary team will evaluate the case, including a radiation oncologist, medical oncologist, and occupational therapist. You may also need a counselling session and therapy during the process.
