Proton therapy for eye melanoma: what to know

An eye specialist and radiation team use eye examinations and imaging to map the tumour, its depth, and nearby structures such as the optic nerve, lens, and retina. The plan aims to place radiation on the intended area while limiting exposure to healthy eye tissue as far as the anatomy allows. Your position and gaze may need to remain steady; small supports or positioning instructions can help.

Possible effects depend on tumour location and dose. They can include temporary irritation, eyelid or skin changes, reduced vision, dryness, or later changes inside the eye. The team explains which effects are more relevant to your tumour and arranges eye follow-up. Proton Therapy is not automatically suitable for every eye melanoma.

Bring your eye reports, scan results, medicines, and details of previous eye procedures. Tell the team about vision changes, pain, light sensitivity, anxiety, and difficulty keeping your eye or head still. Ask whether you need a driver after appointments and how to use prescribed eye care. Clarify the visit schedule, expected positioning, and how your local ophthalmologist will share follow-up information. The treatment technology is described in Proton Therapy System.

Report sudden vision loss, a new curtain or shadow, severe eye pain, marked redness, swelling, discharge, severe headache, or repeated vomiting promptly. Seek urgent help for sudden major changes in vision, injury, confusion, or severe pain. Do not wait for routine imaging if symptoms change quickly. Follow-up remains important because some eye effects can appear after treatment rather than during the treatment visits.

Ask how the tumour’s position affects the plan, which vision structures are close to it, what other treatments could be considered, how your eye will be positioned, what vision changes need urgent review, and how long monitoring will continue. Ask which specialist to call after hours and how ophthalmology and oncology teams will coordinate care.