Eye Cancer Treatment in India
What is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer, characterized by the development of tumors in various parts of the eye, involves the uncontrolled growth of cells forming masses known as tumors. These tumors can be either malignant or benign. Intraocular malignancy specifically refers to cancer developing within the eyeball. Ophthalmologists, specializing in the function and diseases of the eye, are qualified to diagnose and treat intraocular melanoma. On the other hand, optometrists, who are not medical doctors, focus on prescribing corrective eyeglasses and cannot treat intraocular cancer.
Types of Eye Cancer
Cancers of the Eyeball : The types of intraocular cancers are :
Lymphoma of the Eye : Lymphoma, typically originating in the lymph nodes as part of the immune system, becomes a rare occurrence when it develops inside the eyes, referred to as intraocular lymphoma. This condition is often associated with a compromised immune system, particularly in individuals who are elderly, have AIDS, or have undergone organ transplants and require immunosuppressive drugs.
Rare Cancers in Children : Medulloepithelioma and Retinoblastoma are two types of eyeball cancers that primarily affect children. Medulloepithelioma, a rare tumor found mainly in young children, typically does not spread. Retinoblastoma, also a rare tumor, specifically develops in children under the age of five.
Melanoma of the Eye : Melanocytes, cells responsible for pigment production, can become cancerous in melanoma. These cells, which produce coloring, are present in various parts of the body, including the skin, lips, organ lining, and eyes. Melanoma typically initiates in the skin but can also manifest in other body areas, including the eyes. Eye melanoma can originate in the eyelid, eyeball, or conjunctiva.
Eyelid melanoma and conjunctival melanoma are rare types of extraocular cancers. Choroidal melanoma, or uveal melanoma, is a type of eye cancer that forms in the tissues within the middle layer of the eyeball called the choroid. Iris melanomas are typically detectable in their early stages, and they tend to be slow-growing, with minimal spreading to other body parts. Melanomas are classified into three types based on their appearance when examined under a microscope.
Secondary Eye Cancers : Secondary eye cancer refers to instances where cancer has metastasized to the eye from another part of the body. In men, this type of cancer is more likely to occur in conjunction with lung cancer, whereas in women, it is commonly associated with breast cancer.
Cancers around the Eyeball : Cancers can also extend to the structures and tissues surrounding the eyeball, including the accessory muscles and the orbit. Tumors of the skin tissue, muscles, and nerves often develop in these areas around the eye.
Diagnosis of Melanoma of the Eye
Diagnosing eye cancer relies on identifying signs and symptoms that may indicate its presence. A crucial aspect of this process involves examining the eye, where an ophthalmologist may observe large blood vessels on the outer side of the eye, which can serve as an indication of a tumor. Specialized instruments, including a gonioscopy lens, ophthalmoscope, and indirect ophthalmoscope, are employed to closely inspect the eye for any abnormalities.
Signs and Symptoms of Eye Cancer
Adults and children may exhibit distinct symptoms. In adults, signs of eye cancer include :
In children, the indicators of eye cancer include :
Causes of Eye Cancer
Eye cancers can be categorized as primary or secondary. Primary eye cancers originate in the eye tissues, whereas secondary cancers start in other parts of the body and subsequently spread to the eye. Although the causes of eye cancer remain unknown, lung cancer and breast cancer are two types that can lead to secondary eye cancer.
Treatments of Eye Cancer
Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are the treatment options for eye cancer. The choice of treatment depends on :
To address eye melanoma, the treatment options include radiotherapy, surgery, or a combination of both, depending on specific cases. Surgical interventions are determined by three key factors: the tumor's size, its location, and the impact it has on the patient's eye. In the case of a growing iris melanoma tumor, one of the following procedures may be undertaken :
Melanomas that have extended beyond the eyes can be treated with enucleation and radiotherapy. On the other hand, lymphoma of the eye can be addressed through a combination of chemotherapy, biological therapy, and radiotherapy.
Pterygium
Pterygium, a condition commonly known as surfer's eye, tends to impact individuals who spend extended periods outdoors. This prevalent eye condition results in the growth of pink, fleshy tissue on the white part of the eye, typically developing on the side closer to the nose.
Choroidal Nevus
Choroidal nevus, the most prevalent intraocular tumor, is observed in approximately 7% of adults. Typically devoid of symptoms, the lesions associated with this condition are identified through routine eye examinations. Choroidal nevus is rarely seen in children, and in adults, it can manifest as minimally elevated, non-pigmented or pigmented, and occasionally flat.
Orbital Pseudotumor
Orbital pseudotumor refers to the swelling of the tissue behind the orbit, the back area of the eye. The eye is housed within the orbit, a bony cavity in the skull that safeguards the surrounding muscles, tissues, and eyeball. Importantly, orbital pseudotumor does not extend to other parts of the body.
Retinal Pigmented Epithelium (RPE)
Known as the pigmented layer of the retina, the retinal pigmented epithelium plays a crucial role in nourishing the visual cells of the retina. It is connected to both the overlying retinal visual cells and the underlying choroid.
Cost of Eye Cancer Surgery
India attracts a substantial number of global patients seeking eye cancer treatment each year. The cost of eye cancer surgery in India is remarkably affordable, and hospitals employ cutting-edge techniques for effective treatment. The overall treatment expenses fluctuate based on the specific type of eye cancer afflicting a patient.
Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services
Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services
