Ocular oncology

Ocular oncology is a specialized branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and management of cancers related to the eye. This field encompasses a variety of malignancies including ocular melanoma, Retinoblastoma, and other less common tumors like ocular metastasis and conjunctival cancers.

Diseases in Ocular Oncology

Ocular oncology covers a range of eye-related cancers, each with unique characteristics and treatment approaches.

Ocular Melanoma

Ocular melanoma, or melanoma of the eye, is the most common type of eye cancer in adults. It primarily affects the uvea, but can also occur in the conjunctiva or the eyelid.

Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is the most common malignant eye cancer affecting children. It originates from the retina and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Other Eye Cancers

Other less common cancers include squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva, lymphoma of the eye, and metastatic cancers to the eye from other parts of the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of eye cancers involves a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:

• Visual acuity test
• Slit lamp examination
• Ophthalmoscopy
• Ultrasound imaging of the eye
• MRI or CT scans
• Biopsy of the eye tissue

Treatment

Treatment options in ocular oncology depend on the type and stage of the cancer, and may include:

• Radiation therapy, including plaque radiotherapy or external beam radiation
• Chemotherapy, used primarily for retinoblastoma
• Surgery, such as enucleation (removal of the eye) for large tumors or those unresponsive to other treatments
• Laser therapy or cryotherapy for small tumors or as adjunct therapy

Specialists

Specialists in ocular oncology are trained to both diagnose and treat eye cancers. They work closely with a multidisciplinary team including radiologists, pathologists, and oncologists to provide comprehensive care.

See also

• Ophthalmology
• Cancer
• Oncology