Know More About Eye Cancer / Ocular Melanoma
Eye cancer, also termed Ocular Melanoma is a type of cancer that occurs in cells responsible for pigment production. These are known as melanocytes. They produce melanin that is responsible for providing color to the skin. Usually, melanoma occurs in the skin, but it may occasionally occur in the eyes. The main area that gets affected is the eyeball. The thin layer covering the eye called conjunctiva can also be affected by it.
Usually, the tumors form in areas that might not be visible to you while looking in the mirror. So, it becomes quite difficult to diagnose it. The treatments for the same are available that may or may not interfere with the vision impairment. Cancer can also develop in tissues around the eyeball and can even migrate to other parts of the body as well.
Causes of eye cancer
- The unusual and uncontrolled division of the melanocytes causes the conditions of ocular melanoma. The modifications in the cell’s DNA are responsible for the proliferation of cells. The accumulation of melanocytes in the eye leads to tumors in the eye.
- The chances of developing eye cancer increase if you have a light eye color like green, blue, or grey. Those with a different color from brown are more likely to develop eye cancer.
- Those with white or pale skin are more likely to develop an ocular melanoma. Over-exposure to sunlight also becomes a risk factor for eye cancer.
- The unusual shape and color of moles indicate signs that the person may have a high chance of eye cancer.
Types of eye cancer
Melanoma
Also called uveal melanoma, it is the most commonly occurring intraocular cancer that involves the uncontrolled division of melanocytes.
Intraocular Lymphoma
Some doctors say it could be classified as a central nervous system lymphoma. It is rare and difficult for doctors to detect and diagnose.
Hemangioma
Hemangioma is a type of eye cancer (benign) that begins in the choroid and retina.
Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma is another type of eye cancer that occurs in childhood.
Conjunctival melanoma
The eyelid’s membrane is called the conjunctiva, and the cancer cells develop here only. If not treated, it can also spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Eyelid Carcinoma
It is a type of cancer developing on the skin that could either be basal or squamous. If diagnosed on time, it can be removed surgically.
Lacrimal Gland Tumor
Usually, the lacrimal gland is used to produce tears. The cancer cells might develop in these glands.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms experienced by the patients may include the appearance of wiggly lines in front of the eyes, shadows, or flashes of light. A dark patch can develop in the eyes that increase in size, and there could also be blurred vision.
There could be bulging of one eye, and one could experience pain in and around the eyes. Formation of lump is possible in the eyelid. The patient can also undergo partial or complete loss of vision.
These symptoms can also be visible in some other minor conditions, but it is always good to get oneself checked.
Diagnosis
Eye Examination
The doctor will look for any swelling or enlargement of blood vessels around the eye that might indicate eye cancer.
Eye ultrasound
An eye ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves and is performed using a transducer. It is placed on the closed eyelid.
Angiogram
A colored dye is injected into the vein that travels to the blood vessels around the eyes. A specialized camera takes photos of the dye traveling every few seconds.
Biopsy
The biopsy includes collecting the sample from the affected area. The cells or tissues are extracted through a fine needle which is then sent for laboratory analysis and testing.
Optical Coherence Tomography
These include certain imaging tests essential for getting images of the eye and surrounding tissues. Detailed pictures of the retina and uveal tract are obtained.
Side-effects of allopathic treatments
The allopathic treatments sure try to give instant relief from pain and discomfort but might also provide possible consequences. Depending on the issue’s intensity, the side effects can vary.
- The common side-effects of treatments like chemotherapy include easy bruising and bleeding, fatigue, infections, anemia, and several others.
- The issues related to immunotherapy include weakness, dizziness, joint or muscle ache, headache, fatigue, etc. There could be a stiff neck, swollen lymph nodes, shortness of breath, and rashes.
- Surgeries risk bleeding, blood clots, pain, infections, health problems due to anesthesia, and vision loss.
Treatment for eye cancer
The location and size of the cancer cell are responsible for determining cancer treatment. The kind of treatments available for eye melanoma are various:
Enucleation
It refers to removing the eye where the eye’s vision is lost or the tumor is too large. If the cancer is large, it will include an artificial eye to match the efficacy of the other eye.
Brachytherapy
The tiny plaques are lined with radioactive material near tumors to kill cancerous cells. Kill the cancerous cells and it is quite a good therapy.
External Radiotherapy
This procedure includes beams of radiation to kill the cancer cells. The use of radiation involves targeting the cancer cells and heating and burning the cells up.
Surgery
Surgery is done to remove the tumor from the eye. In the case of small tumors, the removal is easy, and the doctor tries to perform it through careful examination.
Why Karma Ayurveda?
Karma Ayurveda has been serving the people since 1937 and has established itself as one of the most reliable Ayurvedic institutions. The doctors here are highly trained, professional, and knowledgeable of the old traditional methods of treating mankind. It believes in therapies like Dhoomapana, Basti, Cupping therapy, Griva Vasti, Gandusha, and others.
Why go for Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a perfect choice for the patients as it goes well in harmony with modern forms of medicine. This field of natural therapy focuses on better sleep cycles, diet changes, various exercise patterns, Yoga, and meditation therapies. It ensures that people receive chemical-free and authentic treatments without harsh side effects on the body. The Ayurveda is the safest, most effective, and most affordable treatment.
The use of herbal medicines, massage therapy, and dietary changes play a crucial role in boosting an individual’s immunity in the body. The process is conducted under the supervision of experts and Ayurvedacharayas. It promotes the intake of high-quality drugs and food items that benefit the body.