Ocular Oncology: Expert Care for Eye Cancers

Ocular oncology is a specialised field that focuses on diagnosing and treating cancers affecting the eye, surrounding tissues, and associated structures such as the orbit and eyelids. This niche area of medicine bridges the gap between oncology and ophthalmology, ensuring patients receive precise and effective care. The expertise of an oncology eye doctor, or ocular oncologist, is crucial in preserving vision, maintaining eye health, and addressing life-threatening conditions.

What is Ocular Oncology?

Ocular oncology is the study and management of tumors in and around the eye. These tumors can range from benign growths to malignant cancers that may threaten vision and, in severe cases, life. Ocular cancer treatment emphasises early diagnosis and patient-centric care to improve outcomes.

By working alongside other specialists, such as medical oncologists and radiologists, ocular oncologists create customised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

Common Types of Ocular Cancers

Several types of cancers and tumors fall under the umbrella of ocular oncology, including:

Uveal Melanoma: The most common primary eye cancer in adults, affecting the iris, ciliary body, or choroid.
Retinoblastoma: A rare but highly treatable cancer that occurs primarily in children.
Lymphoma of the Eye: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that affects the orbit or intraocular structures.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Cancer that typically arises in the conjunctiva or eyelid.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: A common skin cancer affecting the eyelids, which can extend into the surrounding tissues.
Metastatic Tumors: Secondary tumors in the eye originating from cancers in other parts of the body, such as the breast or lungs.

Recognising the signs of these tumors early is essential for timely intervention and effective eye tumor treatment.

Ocular Cancer Diagnosis

The diagnostic process for ocular cancers involves a combination of advanced imaging techniques, clinical evaluations, and laboratory tests. Some of the key steps include:

Comprehensive Eye Exam: Initial assessment to detect abnormalities in the eye and surrounding structures.
Ultrasound Imaging: High-frequency sound waves are used to create detailed images of the eye, helping to identify tumors.
Fundus Photography: Captures images of the retina to detect changes or growths.
Fluorescein Angiography: Evaluates blood flow in the retina and choroid to identify abnormal vascular patterns associated with tumors.
MRI and CT Scans: Provide detailed cross-sectional images of the eye and orbit, aiding in detecting tumors and their spread.
Biopsy: In some cases, a small tissue sample is taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the type of tumor.

Early and accurate diagnosis by an eye oncologist is the cornerstone of effective ocular cancer treatment.

Ocular Cancer Treatment

Treatment for ocular cancers varies based on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. A comprehensive approach ensures the best possible outcomes. Common treatment options include:

Surgical Removal
For localised tumors, surgery is often the first step. Procedures may involve excising the tumor while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Radiation Therapy
Techniques like plaque brachytherapy deliver targeted radiation to shrink or eliminate tumors, minimising damage to surrounding structures.
Chemotherapy
Used primarily for aggressive or systemic cancers like lymphoma or retinoblastoma, chemotherapy may be administered orally, intravenously, or directly into the eye.
Laser Therapy
Advanced laser treatments, such as transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT), are used for small or localised tumors.
Enucleation
In cases where the tumor cannot be treated conservatively, the eye may need to be removed to prevent the spread of cancer. Prosthetic options are available for cosmetic and functional rehabilitation.

Your eye oncologist will work with a multidisciplinary team to design a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Ongoing care is essential to monitor the success of any eye tumor treatment and detect any recurrence. Follow-up visits typically involve:

Regular imaging to track response to treatment.
Vision assessments to identify any changes.
Monitoring for potential side effects of therapy, such as dry eye or radiation damage.
Counseling and support for psychological and emotional well-being.

Ocular Cancer Support and Rehabilitation

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but comprehensive care extends beyond medical treatments. Support and rehabilitation services are designed to help patients regain confidence and maintain quality of life.

Emotional Support: Counseling services provide coping strategies for patients and their families.
Visual Rehabilitation: Assistive devices and therapies improve vision in patients with compromised eyesight.
Prosthetic Solutions: High-quality prosthetics restore the appearance of the eye for patients undergoing enucleation.

The holistic care provided by ocular oncologists at Centre for Sight ensures patients receive the support they need at every stage of their journey.

Why Choose Centre for Sight for Ocular Oncology?

At Centre for Sight, we are committed to providing world-class care for patients with ocular cancers. Here’s why we are a trusted choice for eye cancer treatments:

Expert Team
Our highly experienced oncology eye doctors specialise in diagnosing and treating complex eye cancers with precision and care.
Advanced Diagnostics
We utilise state-of-the-art imaging and testing technologies for accurate and timely diagnosis.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
We offer a full spectrum of ocular cancer treatments from minimally invasive procedures to advanced therapies.
Patient-Centric Care
Our approach prioritises patient comfort and well-being, ensuring a supportive environment throughout your treatment journey.
Proven Track Record
With years of experience and countless success stories, Centre for Sight is a leader in providing effective eye tumor treatment.

CTA: Take the First Step Towards Expert Eye Cancer Care!

Schedule Your Consultation with an Ocular Oncologist

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Common Age of Eye Cancer?

Retinoblastoma is a rare eye cancer in young children under the age of five, with the majority of cases diagnosed before the age of two. Treatment involves chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery, emphasizing early detection for better outcomes.

How To Avoid Eye Cancer?

To reduce the risk of eye cancer, it’s essential to protect your eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, avoid smoking, and seek prompt medical attention for any unusual symptoms or changes in vision.

What Are the First Signs of Eye Cancer?

The first signs of eye cancer may include vision changes, such as blurry or distorted vision, eye pain or discomfort, a visible lump on the eyelid or in the eye, changes in the appearance of the eye, or persistent redness or irritation. White reflex in pupil and bulging eyes are important warning signs.

Is retinoblastoma the most common type of eye cancer in children?

Yes, retinoblastoma is the most common type of eye cancer found in children.

What are the side-effects of chemotherapy in eye cancer treatment (ocular cancer treatment)?

There are many side-effects of chemotherapy used in eye cancer treatment or ocular cancer treatment, like:

Mouth sores
Hair Loss
Vomiting
Constipation
Fatigue
Vulnerability to easy bruising
Loss of appetite

Who is the best ocular oncologist near me?

Are you looking out for an ocular oncologist near you? Then, Centre for Sight is your go- to place. We house a team of eye cancer specialists (ocular oncologists) with professional brilliance, commitment, and kindness to give our patients wonderful vision again. Our ocular oncologists have successfully treated innumerable patients. We offer ocular cancer treatment (eye cancer treatment) with the most reasonable pricing. We are fully equipped with operation theatres, advanced use of technology and equipment for surgery, medicine provision, and more.

What if the ocular cancer treatment fails?

Ocular cancer treatment is not always successful, as cancer can not always be cured. The procedure is complicated and time-taking. It becomes important for ocular oncologists to have an honest conversation with the patient about his/her condition and the chances to live healthily.
Ocular cancer treatment requires a lot of patience and proper hospice care. The Centre for Sight ocular oncology department provides the best possible care and diagnosis of all kinds of eye cancer.

Who is an ocular oncologist?

An ocular oncologist (eye cancer specialist) specializes in eye cancer treatment or ocular cancer treatment. Reach to Centre for Sight for eye care treatment as we have one of the best ocular oncology departments.

Can ocular cancer be cured?

Yes, ocular cancer can often be cured if diagnosed early and treated promptly. Treatment options like surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy offer effective solutions, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

What is the survival rate of ocular cancer?

The survival rate for ocular cancer varies based on the type and stage of the cancer. For instance, uveal melanoma has a high survival rate if detected early, while retinoblastoma in children has a cure rate of over 90% with timely treatment.

What Is Stage 4 Ocular Cancer?

Stage 4 ocular cancer refers to cancer that has spread from the eye to distant parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or bones. This stage is considered advanced and may have a lower chance of cure compared to earlier stages.

Is Cancer in the Eye Curable?

Cancer in the eye can sometimes be cured, especially when detected early and treated promptly with surgery, radiation therapy, or other treatments. However, the prognosis can vary depending on factors like the type and stage of cancer.

What Is the Survival Rate for Ocular Cancer?

The survival rate for ocular cancer depends on various factors such as the type, stage, and treatment. Overall, survival rates can range from high for early-stage cancers to lower for advanced cases.

What is eyelid cancer?

An eyelid cancer occurs on or inside your eyelid. Sebacous Gland carcinoma is the most common type of eyelid cancer in India.

Is eye cancer preventable?

Eye cancers are not preventable, but when detected and diagnosed at the right time good outcome can be achieved.

What are the different types of eye tumours that pose mixed effects on different age groups?

There are varied types of cancers (Benign and Malignant tumour) which pose mixed effects on different age groups:

Uveal Metastasis :

It is secondary cancer that spreads into the uvea of the

eyes from some other affected part of the body.

Melanoma :

Melanoma or uveal melanoma is cancer, which develops due to the obstinate growth of a specific type of cell called melanocytes.

Lymphoma :

Tumor that develops from lymphoid cells within the eye or structure around the eye.

Hemangioma :

It is also a benign tumor. It emerges in the blood vessels and

affects the retina and choroid.

Why is oculoplasty done?

Oculoplasty is performed to improve the comfort, function, and appearance for the following:

Eyelid malposition
Tear drainage problems
Problems of the orbit
Cancers of the eyelid or orbit

How does an eye cancer specialist treat retinoblastoma?

Eye cancer specialists treat retinoblastoma by chemotherapy, laser, and brachytherapy (an advanced form of local radiotherapy), focusing on saving the child’s life, salvaging the eye, and protecting the vision. Treatment ensures 95% of the children are saved from death, over 90% have their eye intact, and over 85% have their vision protected. To save the child’s life and prevent cancer from spreading to other parts of the body, the eye may have to be removed in advanced cases.

What is the most common ocular tumor?

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary ocular tumor in adults, while retinoblastoma is the most frequent eye cancer in children.

What age does eye cancer start?

Eye cancer can occur at any age. Retinoblastoma typically affects children under the age of five, while uveal melanoma is more common in adults, particularly those over 50.

What is the first stage of eye cancer?

The first stage of eye cancer involves a localised tumor confined to the eye without any spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. Early detection at this stage improves the chances of successful treatment.