Risks

According to the American Cancer Society, being Caucasian, sun exposure and specific inherited conditions, such as brown spots on the eye and dysplastic nerve syndrome, increase the chances of developing eye cancer.

Causes

There are only theories on the causes of eye cancer. One particular theory focuses on the changes in DNA that control the division and death of cells. When the genes that control these functions do not work correctly, it is believed to cause cancer.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of eye cancer includes checking certain symptoms, including vision loss, visual field loss, dark spots on the iris, bulging of the eye and flashes of light. Eye exams, X-rays, ultrasounds and blood tests are all examinations that check for signs of cancer in the eye.

Treatment

Laser therapy, radiation therapy, surgery and chemotherapy are used to treat eye cancer. Laser therapy attempts to burn the cancer tissues from the eye. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are medications taken to kill cancer cells. Surgery removes the part of the eye with cancer.

Prevention/Solution

According to the American Cancer Society, decreasing the eye's exposure to the sun may decrease the chances of eye cancer.

Source:

American Cancer Society: What is Eye Cancer?