Understanding Lymphoma of the Eye: Symptoms and Treatment
When most people think of lymphoma, they often picture it affecting lymph nodes or bone marrow. However, did you know that lymphoma can also affect the eye?
Though rare, ocular lymphoma targets the tissues around and inside the eye, including the conjunctiva, retina, vitreous (the gel-like substance inside the eye) and optic nerve. While it can affect anyone, ocular lymphoma is more common in older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems.
If you’ve never heard of lymphoma of the eye before, you’re not alone. That's why it's so important to stay on top of your eye health and visit your physician or ophthalmologist if you notice any changes.
"Ocular lymphoma can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms often mimic other, more common eye problems," said Dr. Julio Chavez, a medical oncologist at Moffitt Cancer Center.
What Are the Symptoms of Ocular Lymphoma?
Ocular lymphoma often affects just one eye, although in rare cases, it may involve both eyes.
Symptoms can vary, but they may include:
- Blurred or Loss of Vision: Vision changes that don’t improve with corrective lenses.
- Floaters: Small spots or shapes that seem to float across your vision.
- Redness, Itchiness or Discomfort: Persistent eye redness and irritation that doesn’t go away.
- Foreign Body Sensation: The feeling that something is in your eye, even if nothing is visible.
- Sensitivity to Light: Increased sensitivity to bright lights or sunlight.
- Eye Pain: Any pain or discomfort in or around the eye.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to reach out to your doctor for evaluation. Early detection of ocular lymphoma is crucial for successful treatment.
How Is Ocular Lymphoma Treated?
Treating the lymphoma of the eye can be tricky, given its delicate nature. Treatment for ocular lymphoma generally follows the same methods used for lymphoma in other parts of the body. The approach depends on the location and extent of the lymphoma in the eye.
- Radiation Therapy: This is the most common and often the most effective treatment for ocular lymphoma. Radiation is precise, which helps protect the healthy tissue around the eye. While it’s generally very safe, side effects like dry eyes, cataracts, or changes in vision can sometimes occur.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy for ocular lymphoma can be delivered directly into the eye or through the bloodstream (intravenously). The direct approach targets the cancer more precisely, with fewer side effects. However, if the lymphoma has spread beyond the eye, systemic chemotherapy is used to treat the entire body.
- Immunotherapy: A newer treatment option, immunotherapy boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer more effectively. It’s especially useful for patients who haven’t responded well to other treatments or have certain genetic markers that make this approach more effective.
Importance of Early Detection
Although ocular lymphoma is rare, the good news is that it is treatable, especially when caught early.
Dr. Chavez emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams, especially for those who are at higher risk, such as older adults or people with weakened immune systems. Staying on top of your eye health and being mindful of any changes in your vision can make a significant difference in detecting lymphoma of the eye early and getting the right treatment.
The earlier you catch potential issues, the better your chances of successful treatment. Remember, your eye health is an important part of your overall well-being.
