Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin):

Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin): 

Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa refer to the development of cancerous tumors in the structures of the eye, the surrounding orbit (eye socket), and its adnexa (related tissues and structures). These tumors can arise from various cell types within these areas and can lead to significant health concerns and potential vision loss.

Causes

Causes of malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa:

• Genetic factors

Certain genetic mutations or inherited conditions can increase the risk of developing eye and orbital cancers.

• Environmental factors

Exposure to certain substances or radiation may contribute to the development of malignant neoplasms in the eye and its surrounding structures.

• Age

The risk of developing eye and orbital cancers tends to increase with age.

• Previous eye conditions or diseases

Some pre-existing eye conditions, such as retinoblastoma (a rare eye cancer in children), may increase the likelihood of developing other malignant neoplasms in the eye or orbit.

• Immune system suppression

Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those undergoing organ transplantation or with HIV/AIDS, may have an increased risk of developing eye and orbital cancers.

Symptoms 

Signs and symptoms of malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa:

• Changes in vision, such as blurred or decreased vision.
• Eye pain or discomfort.
• Redness or swelling of the eye.
• Abnormalities in the appearance of the eye, such as bulging or protrusion.
• Changes in eye movement or double vision.
• Eyelid abnormalities, including drooping or a lump or mass.
• Excessive tearing or dryness of the eyes.
• Changes in the color or pigmentation of the eye or eyelids.
• Visual disturbances, such as flashes of light or floating spots.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa include:

Comprehensive eye examination

This includes visual acuity testing, assessment of eye structures, and evaluation of the optic nerve.

Imaging tests

Imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound may be used to visualize the eye, orbit, and surrounding tissues, and detect any tumor presence, size, and extent.

Biopsy

A tissue sample may be obtained from the suspected tumor for pathological analysis to determine if it is cancerous and the specific type of malignancy.

Evaluation of lymph nodes

Lymph nodes in the neck or other areas may be assessed to determine if the cancer has spread.

Consultation with a specialist

Referral to an ophthalmologist or an ocular oncologist may be necessary for further evaluation, management, and treatment planning.

Note: Continue the 100 percent rating beyond the cessation of any surgical, X-ray, antineoplastic chemotherapy, or other therapeutic procedure. Six months after discontinuance of such treatment, the appropriate disability rating will be determined by mandatory VA examination. Any change in evaluation based upon that or any subsequent examination will be subject to the provisions of §3.105(e) of this chapter. If there has been no local recurrence or metastasis, evaluate based on residuals

Malignant neoplasms of the eye, orbit, and adnexa (excluding skin) that do not require therapy comparable to that for systemic malignancies:

Separately evaluate visual and nonvisual impairment, e.g., disfigurement (diagnostic code 7800), and combine the evaluations