How to Learn About the Eye Cancer Diagnosis Process

Eye cancer involves 1 of the 3 main segments of the eye: the orbit, the globe and the adnexal structures. Primary eye cancer starts inside the eyeball, while the secondary variety spreads to the eye from a different part of the body. There are several medical tests that aid in the diagnosis process of eye cancer, and early detection is possible with regularly scheduled eye exams.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Optometrist
• Internet connection
• Computer
• Oncologist

Identify Symptoms of Eye Cancer

1. Know if you're at risk. Individuals with blue eyes are more likely to obtain eye cancer, as are those with compromised immune systems.
2. Look for symptoms such as a growing dark spot on the iris, a change of position of the eyeball within the socket, bulging of the eye and a change in the way the eye moves within the socket.
3. Take note of additional factors, such as floaters, a decreased ability to see or a visual field loss (seeing only part of what is around you and not the full scene).
4. Know that pain is rarely associated with eye cancer, so do not wait for discomfort to set in before reporting your symptoms.

Learn About the Eye Cancer Diagnosis Process

5. See your doctor immediately if you notice any problems with your eye and schedule yearly examinations.
6. Get tested--an in-depth eye examination is the first step. If a tumor is discovered (most will be benign), proceed with the next step.
7. Submit to an ultrasound or angiography, 2 tests that assist doctors in determining if a tumor is malignant.
8. Schedule a CT scan or MRI if further testing is required. Ultrasounds work in approximately 80 percent of the cases, but additional testing can be required.
9. Stay in the loop about the diagnosis process and any lifestyle changes you may need to make, such as quitting smoking, at the American Cancer Society Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• As a patient, you have the right to choose your health care provider to ensure quality care.
• Benign eye tumors are very common, so if a growth is discovered, have it tested and identified immediately and ask your doctor how to prevent any further growths from becoming cancerous.
• Yearly eye exams are critical to prevention and treatment, regardless of whether or not you have any suspicious symptoms.
• A cancer diagnosis can be hard on your body and your emotional health. Seek out counseling for yourself and your family to assist your well being throughout the process.
• It's critical that you report all relevant symptoms and concerns to your doctor in a timely fashion.