When is radiotherapy recommended for eye melanoma?

The team considers the tumour’s position, size, effect on vision and relationship to important eye structures. Options can include plaque radiotherapy, which places a small radiation source next to the tumour, or external focused radiation. The choice also depends on whether the melanoma is inside the eye or involves nearby tissue, and on your general health and previous treatment.

Attend the eye examination and imaging appointments used to map the tumour. Tell the team about changes in vision, eye pain, flashes, floaters, medicines and previous eye procedures. Ask which technique is proposed, how the eye will be protected, whether vision may change, and how often the eye and general health will be monitored.

Seek urgent eye or oncology advice for sudden loss of vision, severe eye pain, a curtain-like shadow, new marked redness, or rapidly increasing swelling. After treatment, report discharge, worsening vision, persistent pain or any new neurological symptom without waiting for a routine appointment.

Ask where the melanoma is located, why radiotherapy is suitable, which technique will be used, and what the plan means for vision and the eye itself. Ask how the treated eye will be checked and what symptoms require immediate contact.