This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.

The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.

Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.

The first part of this section describes the various types of treatments used for eye melanomas and lymphomas. This is followed by a description of the most common approaches used based on the situation.

Making treatment decisions

After an eye cancer is found and staged, the cancer care team will discuss your treatment options with you. In choosing a treatment plan, factors to consider include the location and stage of the cancer, your overall health, the chances of curing the disease, and the possible impact of the treatment on vision.

It is important to take time and think about your choices. Because intraocular melanomas and lymphomas are rare, if time permits it is often a good idea to seek an opinion from a doctor who has a lot of experience in treating people with these cancers. A second opinion can provide more information and help you feel more confident about the treatment plan that is chosen.

Treatments of the eye may interfere with or cause complete loss of vision. Doctors have developed treatments to try to preserve vision whenever possible, but these treatments may not always be the best choice. Eye cancers can often be fatal if left untreated, and in some cases treatment must be given regardless of the potential damage to the eye. On the other hand, some eye melanomas are small, grow very slowly (if at all), and can be watched carefully without treatment. This is why it is important to get the opinion of a skilled specialist in this field before deciding on treatment.

Last Medical Review: 03/03/2009
Last Revised: 05/14/2009