Category: Patient information Eye cancer

Depending
on where the cancer is clinical signs and symptoms can vary. In children white
appearing area in the centre of the eye, squinting of eyeball are early signs of
cancer. In adults any sudden visual blurring, seeing sudden black objects(
floaters which are increasing), sudden onset of sensation of  sparks of light( flashes) can be signs of
having eye cancer. Any noticeable new lumps or swelling in the region of the
eye needs quick examination by an eye surgeon.

Yes.
Cancer from other site of body like breast, lungs, kidney can spread to eye. Patient known to have any form of cancer anywhere in body if having visual blurring should consult an eye doctor at the earliest.

Choroidal melanoma is the most common eye cancer in adults more than 50-60 years. This cancer is again a treatable type of cancer when detected early and depending on what stage it is done; the treatment varies.

Most importantly its important to save the child. In doing so , specially in advanced cases , the affected eye might need removal. After the eye is removed an artificial eye ball is placed within . Four  to 6 weeks later an artificial eye( comparable to the better seeing eye) is placed.

Retinoblastoma when detected early, can be totally treated and eliminated from the eye. Various different treatment modalities are currently available ranging from chemotherapy, laser, cryotherapy, injections, radiation.

Its important to first save the child, then save the eye.

Having history of retinoblastoma in either of parents/ grandparents / brother/ sister is an important risk factor for developing this cancer. Children with such a history should get their retina examined at the earliest irrespective of presence of any complaints. If your first child has had retinoblastoma, its important to have retinal exam right after birth in the next one. Genetic testing is available which may help us predict chances of your next child having retinoblastoma.

The most common sign is appearance of a whitish area in the center of the eye. Another worrying feature is when the eye starts going sideways( squinting). In later stages eye can be red and painful.

The most common eye cancer in children less than 5 years is called Retinoblastoma. It can be present in one eye or both. If not detected at the right time; this cancer can spread to all parts of the body which in rare cases can also lead to death of the child.

All age groups can be affected by certain forms of eye cancer. There are specific forms of cancer specially seen in children less than 5 years of age. Specific eye cancer can also occur in the elderly.

Cancer like any place else in the body when detected early can be treated . When detected at the right time, not only it gets totally cured, but also leads to better quality of life.