Treatment:

Small melanomas may be treated with lasers, brachytherapy, or radiation therapy.

Surgical removal of the eye (enucleation) may be necessary.

Chemotherapy or biological therapy (interferon) are considered less effective therapies for melanoma involving the eye.

Support Groups:

For additional resources, see cancer support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome for melanoma of the eye depends on the size of the cancer at the time of diagnosis. Most patients will survive at least 5 years from the time of diagnosis if the cancer has not spread outside the eye.

If the cancer has spread outside the eye, the chance of survival is much lower.

Complications:

• Distortion or loss of vision
• Retinal detachment
• Spread of the tumor to other areas of the body

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of melanoma of the eye.