If you or someone you know has been told they have an eye tumor, the first reaction is usually fear. The good news is that many eye cancers are treatable when caught early. This page gives you a clear look at the most common eye cancers, how they show up, and what doctors can do about them.
There are a few eye cancers you’ll hear about most often. Retinoblastoma is the big one for kids. It starts in the retina, the light‑sensing layer at the back of the eye. Symptoms include a white glow in the pupil, eye pain, or a droopy eyelid. Uveal melanoma is the most common adult eye cancer. It begins in the uvea, the pigmented part of the eye, and can cause blurry vision, flashes of light, or a dark spot that looks like a freckle.
Other, less common tumors include conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, which appears on the white part of the eye, and optic nerve glioma, a tumor that grows on the nerve that carries visual information to the brain. Each type has its own pattern, but most share warning signs like sudden vision changes or a visible lump.
The best way to catch an eye cancer early is to pay attention to any new vision problems. If you notice a persistent, unexplained spot in your vision, a change in eye color, or pain that won’t go away, book an eye exam right away. An ophthalmologist will do a thorough exam, often using tools like ultrasound, fluorescein angiography, or MRI to see inside the eye.
When a tumor is found, treatment options depend on size, location, and how fast it’s growing. For small retinoblastoma lesions, doctors may try cryotherapy (freezing) or laser therapy to destroy the tumor without surgery. Larger tumors might need chemotherapy injected directly into the eye (called intra‑arterial chemotherapy) or even removal of the eye (enucleation) in extreme cases.
Uveal melanoma usually calls for radiation therapy, such as brachytherapy, where a small radioactive plaque is placed on the eye surface for a few days. If the tumor is big, doctors might use a beam of radiation from outside the body (proton beam therapy) or consider surgical removal of the tumor and part of the eye.
After treatment, regular follow‑up visits are crucial. Even when the tumor is gone, there’s a risk it could come back or spread to other parts of the body. Blood tests, liver scans, and eye exams help catch any problems early.
Living with an eye cancer diagnosis can be stressful, but many patients keep good vision and a normal life. Support groups, counseling, and clear communication with your eye doctor make a big difference. Knowing the signs, getting checked promptly, and understanding treatment paths gives you the best shot at a healthy outcome.
Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. If something feels off with your eyes, schedule a check‑up. Early detection saves sight and can save lives.
