Malignant Eye Tumors Uncommon
Tumors may be found in almost any tissue of the eye, as well as the eyelids, surrounding tissues and related structures. These tumors may be benign or malignant, and if malignant, they may have spread from another place in the body (metastasized). It is important to differentiate metastatic tumors from those originating in or around the eyes since this will affect treatment options. All tumors of the eye require prompt medical evaluation by an ophthalmologist.
Tumors of the eyelid are quite common and look like irregularities or bumps. Although usually benign, they can occasionally be malignant. The only way to determine for sure whether a tumor is malignant or benign is to examine the tissue under a microscope (a biopsy). Your ophthalmologist may suggest removing a portion of the tumor for this purpose or, if the tumor is small, complete removal.
Conjunctival tumors affect the clear, membrane-like tissue covering the white of the eye (the conjunctiva). These lesions usually appear as a spot or slightly raised area against the white background. Though malignant tumors are seldom seen, they must be treated appropriately with either surgical removal or radiation.
Fortunately, tumors within the eye are rare. However, they may be difficult to diagnose. Special tests or even removal of the eye may be necessary if a life- threatening malignancy is suspected. Once a tumor is diagnosed as non-malignant, it may require only observation or, if it is a vascular tumor, laser treatment.
The most common malignant tumor in the eye is a melanoma, usually occurring in the middle-aged or elderly patient. In about one-half of the cases, these tumors of pigmented cells metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body where they grow and, despite aggressive treatment, usually lead to death. Since there is little scientific evidence that any treatment, including surgery, radiation or removal of the eye, influences the outcome, treatment of melanomas is a very controversial subject among ophthalmologists. A national study is evaluating different treatment methods but the results are not yet available. In the meantime, radiation therapy, observation, and removal of the eye seem to be equally favored.
A rare, genetically determined and life-threatening tumor called a retinoblastoma can occur in young children, usually by the second or third year of life. Since early recognition and treatment of this tumor are important to the child's survival, any abnormality or suspicion of a visual defect in a baby or young child should be promptly evaluated by an ophthalmologist. If the tumor is large or involves both eyes, it may be necessary to remove an eye, treat with radiation therapy, chemotherapy or a combination of the two. Since retinoblastoma can occur in other familial disease, examination of other family members may be necessary.
Tumors may arise in the socket (orbit) behind the eye, displacing the eyeball and causing decreased or double vision. Diagnosis usually requires extensive evaluation and often includes X-rays and blood tests. Treatment methods may include radiation therapy or surgical removal of the tumor.
