Eye cancer includes rare tumors affecting different parts of the eye, such as retinoblastoma in children or ocular melanoma in adults. India provides world-class treatment with advanced technology, skilled oncologists, and full support for international patients. Led by specialists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, patients benefit from cost-effective, precise, and timely care. The total treatment cost in India ranges from $4,000 to $12,000, compared to $50,000–$90,000 in the US or $18,000–$30,000 in Thailand.
What Is Eye Cancer?
Eye cancer refers to abnormal cell growth in or around the eye, which can threaten both vision and life if untreated. It can originate inside the eye (intraocular), on the surface (conjunctiva), or in surrounding tissues (eyelid, orbit).
Who Is Affected by Eye Cancer—Adults or Children?
Eye cancer can occur at any age:
- Children: Most common type is retinoblastoma.
- Adults: Most common types include ocular melanoma, intraocular lymphoma, and squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva or eyelid.
What Are the Most Common Types of Eye Cancer?
- Retinoblastoma
Affects children under age 5. Originates in the retina.
- Ocular Melanoma
The most common eye cancer in adults; arises from melanocytes in the uvea.
- Intraocular Lymphoma
Rare and often linked with central nervous system lymphoma.
- Conjunctival Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Develops on the surface lining of the eye.
- Eyelid Tumors
Includes basal cell carcinoma and sebaceous gland carcinoma.
What Are the Symptoms and Risk Factors of Eye Cancer?
Common Symptoms:
- Blurred or partial vision loss
- A visible white reflex in children’s eyes (for retinoblastoma)
- Eye pain or pressure
- Bulging eye (proptosis)
- Discoloration or change in pupil shape
- Floaters, flashes, or blind spots
Risk Factors:
- Genetic mutation (especially for retinoblastoma)
- UV exposure (ocular melanoma risk)
- Age (older adults more prone to melanoma or lymphoma)
- Family history of eye or skin cancers
How Is Eye Cancer Diagnosed in India?
Diagnostic Protocol:
- Fundus Photography & Eye Exam
First-line non-invasive visual documentation
- Ultrasound (B-scan)
For internal tumor size and location
- MRI/CT of the Orbit
For staging and evaluating local spread
- Biopsy (if needed)
Intraocular or surface biopsy to confirm malignancy
- Tumor Marker Blood Tests
Occasionally required, especially in retinoblastoma
What Are the Treatment Options for Eye Cancer in India?
India offers customized, stage-specific treatment plans using the latest technology and multidisciplinary expertise.
1. Chemotherapy
- Used systemically or intra-arterially (especially for retinoblastoma)
- Drugs: carboplatin, vincristine, etoposide
- Administered in cycles
2. Radiation Therapy
- Plaque brachytherapy for localized intraocular tumors
- External Beam Radiation (EBRT)
- Proton Beam Therapy (available in select Indian hospitals)
3. Laser Therapy
- Thermotherapy or photocoagulation
- Preserves vision in early-stage disease
4. Surgery
- Enucleation: removal of the eye if the tumor is large or visionless
- Local Excision for surface or conjunctival tumors
5. Targeted Therapy or Immunotherapy
- In select advanced cases (ocular melanoma or lymphoma)
What Technology and Devices Are Used in Indian Hospitals?
- High-Resolution Ocular Imaging
- Intra-arterial Chemotherapy Catheters
- Robotic-Assisted Microsurgery
- LINAC Machines for IMRT/IGRT Radiation
- Brachytherapy Implants
- Proton Therapy (in Tata Memorial or Apollo Proton Center)
Why Should Foreign Patients Choose India for Eye Cancer Treatment?
- Cost savings up to 80%
- JCI/NABH-accredited hospitals
- Advanced cancer centers across India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai)
- Skilled ocular oncologists with global training
- Full support for visa, stay, travel, and follow-up
Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for Eye Cancer Treatment?
- Senior Consultant at Medanta – The Medicity
- Globally trained medical oncologist
- Extensive experience with rare cancers including ocular tumors
- Collaborates with top ocular surgeons and radiation oncologists
- Trusted by international patients for holistic, customized cancer care
What Is the Cost Breakdown of Eye Cancer Treatment in India?
Procedure/Test
|
Estimated Cost (USD)
|
Consultation & Eye Imaging
|
$100 – $200
|
MRI/CT Scan
|
$200 – $500
|
Eye Ultrasound
|
$80 – $150
|
Biopsy & Pathology
|
$200 – $400
|
Chemotherapy (per cycle)
|
$300 – $600
|
Radiation Therapy
|
$1,000 – $2,500
|
Laser Treatment
|
$500 – $1,000
|
Enucleation Surgery
|
$1,500 – $2,500
|
Hospitalization & Follow-Up
|
$500 – $1,000
|
Total Estimated Package
|
$4,000 – $12,000
|
How Does India Compare with Other Countries for Eye Cancer Treatment Costs?
Country
|
Estimated Cost (USD)
|
USA
|
$50,000 – $90,000
|
UK
|
$45,000 – $80,000
|
Singapore
|
$30,000 – $50,000
|
Thailand
|
$18,000 – $30,000
|
India
|
$4,000 – $12,000
|
What Is the Procedure for International Patients?
- Share medical records and images for online review
- Receive a personalized treatment plan
- Get assistance with medical visa and travel
- Arrive in India, undergo evaluation and diagnosis
- Begin treatment with no wait time
- Stay in hospital or nearby accommodation
- Get post-treatment follow-up via video consultation
Advantages of Getting Eye Cancer Treatment in India
- International-quality care at affordable rates
- Highly skilled doctors and modern facilities
- No long waiting periods
- Hospital stay and travel support
- English-speaking medical staff and coordinators
- Cultural sensitivity and personalized attention
Eye cancer can be a complex condition requiring timely, expert care. India stands out as a global hub for high-quality, low-cost oncology treatment, offering modern infrastructure, compassionate specialists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, and full support for international patients. Whether it’s retinoblastoma in a child or ocular melanoma in an adult, India offers hope, healing, and affordability under one roof.