Finding a lump or change in your eye can be scary, but catching eye cancer early makes treatment a lot easier. This guide walks you through the most common signs, the tests doctors run, and how you can stay on top of your eye health.
Not every eye change means cancer, but certain clues should never be ignored. Look out for a new spot on the white part of the eye (the sclera), a dark spot that grows, or a painless lump near the eyelid. Vision that suddenly gets blurry, double vision, or a shadow in your side view can also point to a tumor. If you notice any of these symptoms, book an eye exam right away.
During the first visit, an ophthalmologist will use a flashlight and magnifying lenses to get a close look. If something looks off, they’ll move on to imaging tests. An ultrasound of the eye creates a picture of any mass inside, while a CT scan or MRI shows the tumor’s size and whether it has spread. In many cases, doctors will take a tiny tissue sample (a biopsy) to confirm the type of cancer.
Blood tests aren’t usually used to spot eye cancer, but they help check overall health before treatment. After the diagnosis, the specialist will stage the cancer—meaning they figure out how far it has grown and if it’s reached nearby structures. Staging decides whether surgery, radiation, or medication is the best next step.
One practical tip: bring a list of any medicines you take, even vitamins, because some can affect the imaging results. Also, ask the doctor to explain each test in plain language; knowing what to expect reduces anxiety.
Early detection matters. Tumors caught before they spread are often treatable with less aggressive procedures, which means a faster recovery and a better chance of keeping your vision. Regular eye check‑ups—especially if you have risk factors like a family history of melanoma or a weakened immune system—are the best defense.
If you’re diagnosed, don’t panic. Talk to your eye cancer team about treatment options, side‑effects, and follow‑up plans. Many patients find support groups helpful, and bringing a friend or family member to appointments ensures you don’t miss important details.
Bottom line: keep an eye on changes, act fast on new symptoms, and follow through with the recommended imaging and biopsy. By staying proactive, you give yourself the best shot at a smooth diagnosis and effective treatment.
