Eye cancer is considered rare, with approximately 3,500 new cases diagnosed each year in the United States, compared to more than 1.7 million total cancer diagnoses annually. Like most cancers, ocular cancer is not easily recognizable in its early stages, unless it develops near vital structures of the eye.
At Retina Consultants, P.C., our ocular oncology program delivers highly specialized, precision-driven care led by Scott Walter, M.D., M.Sc. Whether you have been diagnosed with choroidal melanoma, retinoblastoma, or other eye cancers, you can count on our expertise.
What is eye cancer?
The term eye or ocular cancer refers to malignant conditions affecting the eyes, including:
- Melanoma: Melanoma occurs in several areas of the eye, including the iris, choroid, and ciliary body (uvea). Uveal cancer is the most common eye cancer in adults. Uveal melanoma has a risk of metastasis, so it must be treated before it spreads to the liver, lungs, and skin.
- Intraocular lymphoma: It’s common in older adults and can develop in the retina or vitreous humor layer. It often affects both eyes at the same time, and signs include floaters, pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, and other signs.
- Retinoblastoma: Retinoblastoma begins in the retinal cells and is the most common eye cancer in children. It can be inherited, making genetic counseling and testing important for at-risk parents.
- Metastatic cancers: The majority of ocular cancers don’t start in the eye. Most spread from other areas of the body, including the lungs and breast.
We also address benign tumors, such as choroidal nevi and hemangiomas. While they may be non-malignant, they require close supervision and treatment because some can develop into ocular cancers.
Who is at risk of ocular cancer?
Although eye cancers are uncommon, specific individuals may have a higher risk, including:
- Patients with fair skin or light-colored eyes.
- Individuals with a history of atypical moles or skin melanoma.
- Those with genetic predispositions.
- Patients aged over 50.
- Patients with weakened immune systems.
- Some studies suggest welders have an increased risk of ocular cancer, although the exact cause is unknown.
What are the treatment options for ocular cancer?
Treatment depends on the tumor’s type, size, and location. One of the common treatments for uveal melanoma is targeted radiation therapy (plaque brachytherapy). Your oncologist configures this treatment to deliver radiation to the tumor while leaving the surrounding vital structures unscathed.
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for ocular cancer. Treatment can also include laser therapy, cryotherapy, surgical excisions, and systemic coordination with oncology for metastatic disease. In many cases, modern therapies allow us to preserve both the eye and functional vision.
Who is Scott Walter, M.D., M.Sc.?
Dr. Walter is a fellowship-trained retina specialist with over 10 years of training, including a two-year program in medical and surgical fellowship. He is the only ocular oncologist in Connecticut and performs more than 400 vitreoretinal surgeries each year. Dr. Walter has authored more than 30 peer-reviewed publications and has received over 20 awards for his contributions to ophthalmology. His depth of experience places patients in the hands of one of the region’s most accomplished retinal surgeons.
Are you looking for an ocular oncology specialist at a place near me in the Connecticut area?
Ocular oncology requires elite training and unwavering precision. Under the leadership of Dr. Scott Walter, Retina Consultants, P.C. provides highly specialized care for some of the most complex conditions in ophthalmology.
Have you been diagnosed with eye cancer? Are you concerned about a suspicious eye lesion? Don’t wait! Schedule a consultation with our retina specialists in any of our five offices:
- Hartford: (860) 527-9020
- Cromwell: (860) 788-6569
- Farmington: (860) 409-7800
- Manchester: (860) 646-7704
- Enfield: (860) 741-4300
The prospect of eye cancer can be overwhelming and even scary. However, with advanced expertise and compassionate guidance, there is hope—and there are options to protect your vision and overall health.
