Complications of Eye Cancer
The complications of eye cancer depend on the tumour’s location, the stage at diagnosis, and the type of treatment received. Eye cancer can cause problems ranging from partial vision loss to life-threatening spread, especially if left untreated or caught late.
Vision Loss
The most common complication is partial or total loss of vision in the affected eye. This may be due to:
Damage from the tumour itself
Side effects of radiation (e.g., optic nerve damage or retinal detachment)
Surgical removal of the eye (enucleation)
Vision loss may be temporary or permanent. Children who lose sight in one eye may adapt well, but depth perception and peripheral vision are often reduced.
Cosmetic and Emotional Impact
Facial asymmetry or changes in appearance after surgery
Need for a prosthetic eye, which requires ongoing care
Body image concerns, especially among teenagers and young adults
Emotional trauma, including fear, depression, and anxiety
Support groups, peer counselling, and psychological therapy can help individuals adjust and regain confidence.
Spread (Metastasis)
Some forms of eye cancer, especially uveal melanoma, can spread to other organs—most commonly the liver. Once spread occurs, survival rates decrease significantly. Regular liver scans and blood tests are needed in high-risk patients.
Retinoblastoma, if left untreated, can spread along the optic nerve to the brain or metastasise to the bone marrow. Early detection is critical to preventing these outcomes.
Treatment Side Effects
Each treatment type carries specific risks:
Radiotherapy – Cataracts, dry eye, eyelash loss, and retinal damage
Chemotherapy – Nausea, lowered immunity, and hair loss
Surgery – Risk of infection, bleeding, or complications with the eye socket
Most side effects are manageable with proper follow-up care.
Psychological and Developmental Impact
Children with retinoblastoma may experience:
Developmental delays, particularly if treatment interrupts early schooling
Anxiety during frequent hospital visits
Need for long-term screening, especially in inherited cases
Adults may face career limitations, driving restrictions, or lifestyle changes depending on vision loss severity.
Global Considerations | Complications of Eye Cancer
In resource-limited settings, complications are often worsened by:
Delayed diagnosis, resulting in advanced tumours
Limited access to specialists or radiation therapy
Lack of psychological or rehabilitative support
Efforts to train local healthcare workers and expand diagnostic capacity can improve outcomes and reduce complications.
The complications of eye cancer can be serious, but early detection, effective treatment, and ongoing support greatly improve survival and quality of life. A holistic care approach addresses both physical and emotional needs.
