What are the treatment options for eye melanoma?

Brachytherapy places a small radiation source near the eye tumour for a planned period, allowing treatment to be concentrated around the affected area. External radiotherapy directs radiation from outside the body and may be selected for particular tumour positions or clinical circumstances.

An ophthalmic oncology team assesses the tumour with eye examinations and imaging. The plan balances tumour control with protection of sight, the optic nerve and other eye structures. Treatment may affect vision, eye comfort or appearance, and these possibilities should be discussed before treatment begins.

Ask how the tumour's location affects the recommended treatment and whether preserving the eye is realistic for your situation. Discuss expected changes in vision, follow-up examinations, eye drops, pain relief and when normal activities can resume. Bring a list of medicines and mention existing eye conditions or changes in sight.

Attend scheduled eye checks so the team can assess the treated area and monitor vision. Report new symptoms rather than waiting for the next appointment, especially after a procedure or radiation treatment.

Contact the treatment team urgently for sudden or marked loss of vision, severe eye pain, increasing redness, new flashes or a curtain-like shadow, or swelling that is rapidly worsening. Emergency care is needed for serious injury, collapse or sudden neurological symptoms.

Where is the melanoma within the eye, and how does that guide treatment? What vision changes are possible? Why is brachytherapy or external radiotherapy being suggested? How often will my eye be examined, and which symptoms require a same-day call?