Ocular Cancer Treatment in St. Louis

Being diagnosed with ocular cancer can be a significant life event, but you are not alone. At St. Louis CyberKnife, we are dedicated to providing you with the best support and action plan to help you take charge of your health.

Maintaining your vision while fighting cancer is essential, and your treatment plan should reflect this, that’s why our approach focuses on both combating cancer and preserving your overall well-being and quality of life.

Understanding Ocular Cancer

Ocular cancer, or eye cancer, is a rare condition that can affect various parts of the eye. Common types include intraocular melanoma, retinoblastoma in children, lymphoma in immunocompromised individuals, conjunctival tumors, and eyelid tumors. Each type originates from different tissues within the eye and can vary in severity.

Several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing ocular cancer. These include: 

• Age: The risk of ocular cancer increases with age, especially for intraocular melanoma, which is more common in adults.
• Fair Skin and Light Eyes: Individuals with fair skin and light-colored eyes (blue or green) are at a higher risk of developing intraocular melanoma.
• Genetic Factors: Certain genetic mutations and inherited conditions, such as dysplastic nevus syndrome and retinoblastoma, can increase the risk.
• Exposure to UV Radiation: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk of developing ocular melanoma.
• Gender: Males are slightly more likely to develop ocular melanoma compared to females.
• Family History: A family history of ocular cancer or other cancers can increase the risk.
• Certain Occupations: Jobs that involve significant exposure to chemicals, radiation, or UV light may increase the risk.
• Immunocompromised State: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those taking immunosuppressive drugs, are at higher risk for ocular lymphoma.

The CyberKnife for Ocular Cancer

The CyberKnife offers a groundbreaking approach to treating eye cancer using a specialized radiation therapy called stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). This technology integrates a powerful linear accelerator, generating a highly focused beam of radiation, mounted on a sophisticated robotic arm.

The unique feature of the CyberKnife lies in its real-time tumor tracking capability. The robotic arm adjusts the machine’s position throughout treatment, ensuring pinpoint accuracy in delivering radiation directly to the cancerous cells. This minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissues in the delicate eye area.

Benefits of the CyberKnife

• Precision Targeting: The system’s ability to verify and adjust to the tumor’s exact position, even with movement, ensures high precision in radiation delivery.
• Minimized Side Effects: By approaching the tumor from numerous unique angles, the CyberKnife system maximizes the radiation dose to the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissues, reducing potential side effects.
• Non-Invasive Treatment: Ideal for patients who cannot undergo surgery, the CyberKnife system provides an effective, non-invasive treatment option, offering a high degree of safety and efficacy for complex or inoperable tumors.

Why Choose St. Louis CyberKnife

Unmatched Expertise: Our team comprises highly skilled and experienced radiation oncologists, and other specialists who are all passionate about ocular cancer treatment. We stay at the forefront of medical advancements to ensure you receive the most effective and up-to-date care available.

Personalized Treatment Plans: We believe in a patient-centered approach. We take the time to understand your unique situation, diagnosis, and individual needs. Our team will work collaboratively with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that offers the most effective course of action for your condition.

Compassionate Care: We understand the emotional toll that a cancer diagnosis can take. Our team is committed to providing you with compassionate and supportive care throughout your entire treatment journey. You will be treated with dignity and respect at every step of the way.

Begin Your Journey Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ocular cancer, don’t worry. Schedule a consultation at St. Louis CyberKnife today. Our team of specialists is ready to provide you with advanced, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs.