NEOPLASIA OF THE EYE

Tumors of the eye are not common with the exception of benign eyelid tumors seen somewhat frequently.  Many can be treated, at least by surgical means, with death from tumors of the eye being very rare.  Internal eye tumors can require removal of the eye.

DERMOIDS:  Common tumor of all exposed eye tissues, usually has hairs growing from it which can be irritating.  Benign, surgical removal is often curative.   Dermoids do occur in other areas besides the eye.

VIRAL PAPILLOMA:   Warts caused by a virus, more common in young dogs, benign and can be removed with surgery or freezing.

CHALAZION:  Not a tumor but included here as it may be confused as such.   Swelling occurs on eyelid due to plugging of glandular duct with possible secondary infection.  Can be easily treated with surgery and medication.

MELANOMA:  Often found inside the eye, but may occur on other structures.   Malignant per se, but usually will not spread outside the globe unless left untreated for some time.  Removal of the eye is the usual treatment; local removal or freezing may work.

ADENOMA:  Most common on the eyelids, can irritate the cornea if it rubs against it.  Removal by surgery or freezing advised early.  For various types see the section on skin tumors.

ADENOCARCINOMA:  May be seen on conjunctiva or third eyelid; malignant and can spread to nearby structures.   Surgery or freezing advised as soon as possible, third eyelid may need to be removed.  For various types see section on skin tumors.

HEMANGIOMA:  Uncommon tumor most often of the conjunctiva, will bleed if irritated, can be removed completely with surgery.

HISTIOCYTOMA:  Uncommon, rapidly growing tumor of eyelids, cornea and conjunctiva.  Can occur on lips and may invade other tissues.  Surgical removal or freezing can be curative.

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