Home / Health / Freckle in Eye Grows Into Cancer
Freckle in Eye Grows Into Cancer
15 Feb
Summary
- A childhood freckle in Laura Graham-Claire's eye grew and was diagnosed as cancer.
- She experienced vision changes and headaches before her diagnosis.
- Plaque therapy treatment was successful, but has long-lasting effects on her eye.
Laura Graham-Claire, aged 40, was diagnosed with eye cancer after a freckle in her right eye began exhibiting concerning growth. Symptoms, including flashes, blurry vision, and headaches, initially led her to believe she was simply tired from her job.
An advanced eye scan at Specsavers revealed the growing freckle was cancerous. Despite NHS waiting lists, she opted for private care, confirming the diagnosis. Around 900 people in the UK are diagnosed with eye cancer annually, with cases rising by approximately 30 percent since the 1990s.
While often genetic, prolonged UV exposure can increase tumor risk. Many miss early signs because they are unaware of the cancer or skip regular eye tests, which are recommended at least every two years by the NHS.
Laura received plaque therapy, a treatment involving a radioactive patch sewn onto the eyeball for two days. This method has shown about 90 percent effectiveness in destroying cancer cells. Although the treatment was successful and she received the all-clear, Laura now requires monthly injections to strengthen blood vessels in her eye, and there is a possibility of future vision loss.
Experts emphasize that regular eye tests are crucial not only for detecting eye cancer but also other conditions like glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss if untreated. Early detection of various eye conditions is key to effective treatment and preserving sight.
