Eye Cancer (Retinoblastoma) Treatment in Delhi, India

Overview

Eye cancer refers to malignancies that develop in the eye or surrounding tissues. This condition typically arises when cells begin to grow uncontrollably. The most common type of eye cancer is melanoma, which originates in the melanin-producing cells. The eye contains melanin-producing cells, making it susceptible to melanoma, also known as ocular melanoma. Most ocular melanomas develop in parts of the eye that are not visible during a standard examination, making early detection challenging. Additionally, this type of cancer usually doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages.

Types of Eye Cancer

Eye cancers are categorized based on the origin of the cancerous cells:

• Primary Intraocular Cancer: This type of cancer originates within the eye. The most common forms are Intraocular Melanoma in adults and Retinoblastoma in children.
• Secondary Intraocular Cancer (Metastatic Cancer): This type of cancer starts in other parts of the body, such as the lungs or breasts, and later spreads to the eye.

Eye Cancer Symptoms

Eye melanoma often presents with minimal to no symptoms in its early stages. While the disease grows The following symptoms could be observed:

Eye floaters or flashes of light

1. Changes in the appearance of the pupil
2. Blurred or poor vision in one eye
3. Loss of peripheral vision
4. Bulging of one or both eyes
5. Presence of a dark mole near the white part of the eye

Causes of Eye Cancer

The precise causes of most eye cancers remain largely unknown. However, it is understood that changes in the DNA of cells can lead to cancerous growth. These DNA changes may activate oncogenes or deactivate tumor suppressor genes, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancer.

Diagnosis of Eye Cancer

To diagnose eye cancer, particularly ocular melanoma, the following tests may be conducted:

1. Eye Examination: A thorough examination using Binocular Indirect Ophthalmoscopy and Slit-lamp Biomicroscopy to detect tumors by observing any abnormal blood vessels inside the eye.
2. Eye Ultrasound: This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the eye’s internal structures.
3. Angiogram: A colored dye is injected into a vein, allowing blood vessels in the eye to be photographed using a camera equipped with special filters.
4. Optical Coherence Tomography: This test generates detailed images of the uveal tract and retina, helping to identify abnormalities.

If ocular melanoma is suspected, additional tests may be recommended to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body. These tests may include:

• Blood tests to assess liver function
• Chest X-ray
• CT (Computerized Tomography) scan
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan
• Abdominal ultrasound
• PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan

Eye Cancer Treatment

The treatment of eye cancer depends on several factors, including the tumor’s size, location & the patient’s overall health. Treatment options include:

• Observation: Small eye melanomas that are stable may not require immediate treatment. Instead, the doctor may monitor the tumor closely for any signs of growth or complications.
• Radiation Therapy: This treatment is often used for small to medium-sized melanomas. Brachytherapy, where a radioactive plaque is placed directly over the tumor, is a common approach.
• Laser Treatment: Thermotherapy, which uses an infrared laser, can be combined with radiation therapy to effectively destroy melanoma cells.
• Photodynamic Therapy: This treatment combines medication with a specific wavelength of light to target and destroy cancer cells, particularly in small tumors.
• Cryotherapy (Cold Treatments): Although less common, cryotherapy can be used to freeze and destroy small melanoma cells.

Eye Cancer Surgery

Surgical options for eye cancer include:

1. Iridectomy: Removal of a portion of the iris.
2. Iridocyclectomy: Removal of part of the iris and the ciliary body.
3. Sclerouvectomy/Endoresection: Surgical removal of a choroidal tumor.
4. Enucleation: Complete removal of the eye, which may be necessary for larger or more aggressive tumors.

In certain cases, surgery may also involve placing a radioactive disc inside the eye for internal radiation therapy (brachytherapy).

Risk Factors of Eye Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing eye cancer:

1. Light Eye Color: Individuals with blue or green eyes are at a higher risk of developing ocular melanoma.
2. Ethnicity: White individuals have a greater risk compared to other racial groups.
3. Age: The likelihood of developing eye cancer increases with age.
4. Inherited Skin Disorders: Conditions such as dysplastic nevus syndrome and ocular melanocytosis can increase the risk of ocular melanoma.
5. UV Light Exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may elevate the risk.
6. Genetic Mutations: Certain genetic changes can predispose individuals to eye cancer.

Complications of Eye Cancer

Eye melanoma can lead to several complications, including:

1. Glaucoma: Increased pressure within the eye.
2. Vision Loss: Depending on the tumor’s location and treatment.
3. Metastasis: Spread of the cancer to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, and bones