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Eye cancer

Also called Uveal melanoma, Ocular melanoma, or Eye melanoma

Eye cancer is rare. In adults, the most common type is uveal melanoma, which grows in the layer of the eye that contains blood vessels. It often causes no symptoms and is sometimes found during a routine eye test. In young children, the most common eye cancer is retinoblastoma.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Treatment depends on the size and position of the tumour and may include radiotherapy, laser treatment or surgery. Sight can often be saved.

Specialist eye cancer centres provide treatment and long-term follow-up, including checks for spread to the liver.

Common signs

  • Often no symptoms
  • Shadows, flashes of light or blurred vision
  • A dark patch in the eye that is getting bigger
  • Partial or total loss of vision

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Eye examination
  • Ultrasound of the eye
  • Photographs and scans of the retina
  • Biopsy in some cases

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • Eye scan and ultrasound reports
  • Treatment details
  • Follow-up liver scan results
  • Specialist centre letters

Questions to ask your doctor

  • What type and size is the tumour?
  • Can my sight be saved?
  • What follow-up will I need, and how often?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Sudden loss of vision, or a painful red eye: get same-day help

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Melanoma skin cancerA type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs. A new mole or a change in a mole should be checked early.RetinoblastomaA rare eye cancer that affects young children, usually under 5. Most children are cured when it is found early.