Eye Cancer

Henry Ford ophthalmologists diagnose and treat all types of eye cancer, including rare eye tumors.

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. At Henry Ford, patients receive compassionate, ongoing support from experienced ophthalmologists and cancer specialists. Our team provides rapid diagnosis, personalized care and expert treatment for patients and their families.

Eye cancer can develop anywhere in or around the eye, including:

• Eyelid
• Orbit
• Cornea
• Conjunctiva
• Iris
• Retina
• Choroid
• Optic nerve

Eye cancer specialists

Henry Ford ophthalmologists treat all major types of eye cancer, including:

• Primary: Tumors that originate in the eye or its associated structures
• Secondary: Tumors that spread from nearby areas such as the sinuses or central nervous system
• Metastatic: Tumors that spread from other parts of the body

Our team also treats rare eye tumors, including ocular melanoma and retinoblastoma .

Diagnostic tests for eye cancer

Through the Henry Ford Department of Ophthalmology and the Henry Ford Cancer Institute, patients have access to advanced diagnostic testing and surgical care. Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive exam, followed by imaging and other tests as needed, including:

• Computed tomography (CT)
• Fluorescein angiography
• Fundus photography
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound
• Other specialized testing

Eye cancer treatment

Treatment aims to preserve or restore vision and appearance whenever possible. Options may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Photocoagulation (laser therapy)
• Cryotherapy (freezing therapy)

Eye cancer surgery

Because many eye tumors are complex, our surgeons collaborate with neurosurgeons, otolaryngologists and maxillofacial surgeons to provide coordinated care when needed.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery

Plastic and reconstructive surgery plays an important role in treating many eye tumors. Our ophthalmic plastic surgeons provide specialized care for conditions including:

• Eyelid cancers: Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and sebaceous adenocarcinoma
• Conjunctival cancers: Squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma
• Primary orbital cancers: Rhabdomyosarcoma, lymphoma, pleomorphic adenoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma
• Secondary orbital cancers: Meningioma, ameloblastoma, inverted papilloma, squamous cell carcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma
• Metastatic orbital cancers: Cancers originating in the breast, lung, prostate, adrenal glands and kidney

Ocularists are also available to create custom artificial eyes when needed.

At Henry Ford, patients come first

The Henry Ford Department of Ophthalmology is committed to delivering compassionate, personalized care using the most advanced treatments available. We are dedicated to vision research , continuing to advance innovation in eye care. As one of the largest ophthalmology practices in the United States, we treat more than 55,000 patients each year at 12 locations throughout southeast Michigan. Our team also collaborates with physicians across specialties to provide coordinated, multidisciplinary care.