Diagnosis of Eye Cancer
The diagnosis of eye cancer requires a thorough eye examination and a series of specialised tests to confirm the presence and type of tumour. Since eye cancer is relatively rare, early signs can be missed or misdiagnosed. Prompt referral to an eye specialist improves the chances of early detection and successful treatment.
Clinical Evaluation
An ophthalmologist begins by reviewing:
Symptoms, such as vision changes, pain, or visible growths
Medical history, including family history of eye disease or cancer
Eye appearance, using a magnifying tool called a slit lamp to examine the front and back of the eye
This detailed eye exam helps identify abnormalities in the retina, choroid, iris, and optic nerve.
Imaging and Diagnostic Tests
If cancer is suspected, further investigations are needed:
1. Ultrasound Scan (B-scan)
Uses sound waves to create an image of the eye
Detects the size, location, and consistency of a tumour
Commonly used for intraocular tumours like melanoma
2. Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)
Provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina and surrounding structures
Useful for tumours involving the retinal layers
3. Fluorescein Angiography
A dye is injected into the bloodstream to highlight blood vessels in the retina
Helps differentiate between benign and cancerous growths
4. MRI or CT Scan
Used if the tumour may have extended beyond the eye or into surrounding tissues
Also used to check for spread to lymph nodes or the brain
5. Biopsy
In some cases, especially with surface tumours or when the diagnosis is unclear, a small tissue sample may be taken. However, biopsies inside the eye are rare due to the risk of vision loss or spreading cancer cells.
Genetic Testing | Diagnosis of Eye Cancer
For children with retinoblastoma, genetic testing is essential to confirm if the condition is inherited. This information guides treatment and screening for siblings or future children.
Blood Tests and Systemic Evaluation
If secondary cancer (metastasis) is suspected, blood tests and imaging of the liver, lungs, or brain may be necessary to locate the primary cancer or other sites of spread.
Global Access
In countries with well-equipped eye hospitals, diagnosis is efficient and often non-invasive. However, in lower-resource settings, lack of imaging tools and specialists can delay accurate diagnosis. Awareness campaigns and mobile eye clinics are beginning to improve this situation.
The diagnosis of eye cancer must be prompt and precise to preserve vision and save lives. Early detection opens the door to effective treatment and better long-term outcomes.
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