Ocular oncology

Penn Medicine’s ocular oncology specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for cancers and tumors of the eye and surrounding areas, helping preserve vision and health.
A woman listens to her opthamologist.

Decades of experience treating eye cancer

Ocular cancers and tumors can affect the eye itself or the delicate tissues and structures around it, such as the eyelid, eyebrow, tear ducts, or eye socket. These conditions may be cancerous, noncancerous, or have the potential to become cancerous. Because the eye is such a complex and sensitive organ, receiving an accurate diagnosis and specialized care is essential.

Penn Medicine brings together ophthalmology and cancer expertise to deliver comprehensive care for people with tumors of the eye and surrounding areas. We partner with our teams at the Scheie Eye Institute and the Abramson Cancer Center (ACC) to provide expert evaluation, state-of-the-art treatment, and ongoing monitoring for both common and rare conditions.

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Collaborative care across specialties

Our specialists are recognized leaders in the field of ocular oncology and are also active researchers, developing innovative therapies and approaches to improve care. This means patients have access to advanced treatments and clinical trials available only at leading academic centers.

Care at Penn Medicine is truly collaborative. Ophthalmologists, oncologists, radiation specialists, and pathologists work closely to coordinate every aspect of diagnosis and treatment. Whether you require surgery, systemic therapy, or careful observation, your care plan is tailored to your specific condition and overall health.

Conditions we treat

  • Eyelid tumor
  • Ocular (eye) cancer
  • Ocular (eye) melanoma
  • Orbital tumors

Advanced ocular cancer treatment and therapies

Treatment for eye cancers and tumors depends on the type, size, and location of the affected area, as well as your vision and overall health. Care may include surgery to remove the tumor and a range of medical therapies designed to target abnormal cells and prevent recurrence. Our ophthalmic surgeons and cancer specialists collaborate to devise the right treatment plan for your needs.

Depending on the approach used to treat your ocular cancer, reconstructive surgery may be needed or desired afterward. Penn Medicine surgeons specializing in oculoplastic and orbital surgery expertly restore both the form and function of the eye, eyelid, and surrounding tissue.

Brachytherapy
This internal radiation technique is used to treat certain types of localized cancer that have not spread.
Chemotherapy
This treatment uses strong medicines to target and eliminate cancer cells and to prevent their spread.
Immunotherapy
This treatment boosts the immune system, enhancing its ability to recognize and eliminate abnormal cells.
Targeted therapy
This cancer treatment uses powerful medications to help identify and disable certain types of cancer cells.
National Cancer Institute Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center badge on top of shot of hospital

Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute

Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.

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Our doctors

Our providers work with you to plan and deliver exceptional treatment and personalized care.

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Locations

Our hospitals, multispecialty medical centers, pharmacies, labs and more offer outstanding, personalized care for patients all across the region.

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