Changes Around Your Eyes That Could Indicate Skin Cancer | National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month

April is National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month. Most people will know at least one person who develops cancer in their lifetime. Understanding your cancer risks is the first step in prevention. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, estimates are that one in five people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.  Although skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, not everyone knows what to look for, and they may miss the subtle changes. 
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When you think of skin cancer, you may not immediately think about cancer around the eyes or on the eyelids, but cancer around the eyes is fairly common. Continue reading for information on risks for skin cancer around the eyes, symptoms, and prevention tips. 

Who is at higher risk for skin cancer around the eyes?

Anyone can develop skin cancer around their eyes. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, and it's often exposed to UV light from the sun. Additionally, some symptoms may go unnoticed, as skin changes may seem normal at first. 

Researchers have identified certain factors that may increase your risk of developing skin cancer around the eyes, including:

• Excessive sun or tanning bed exposure
• Having light colored eyes
• Older age
• History of prior skin cancer 

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Possible symptoms to watch for 

Not every new growth or change to the skin around the eyes indicates skin cancer, but there are certain signs that should be evaluated and need a closer look, including the following: 

A new bump on the eyelid: Some people mistake a new bump for a stye, but a stye usually clears up in a week or two. A new bump that does not heal within 4 weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. 

Loss of eyelashes in one area: Skin cancer can disrupt normal hair follicles on the lash line. This may lead to unexplained eyelash loss in one area of the eyelid. 

Vision changes: Although rare, eye melanoma can cause vision changes. Vision changes may include seeing flashes of light, blind spots, or blurred vision. According to the Mayo Clinic, eye melanoma typically develops in one of the three parts of the uvea: the iris, ciliary body, or choroid. 

A sore that doesn't heal in the skin around the eye: Similar to any part of your skin, a lesion or sore around the eye that doesn't heal in a few weeks should be checked out. Skin cancer around the eye may include an open sore or an area that repeatedly scabs and reopens.

Chronic redness of the eyelid: Chronic redness around the eyelid can be caused by dermatitis, recurrent irritation, and chronic blepharitis. But it can also occur due to skin cancer.
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Early detection is key

As with all types of cancer, detecting skin cancer around the eyes early leads to the best outcomes. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, 90% of skin cancer around the eye is basal cell carcinoma. Although this form of skin cancer is highly curable, left untreated it can be disfiguring.  In addition, even basal cell carcinoma can spread to the surrounding areas and the eye itself. 

Early detection can help prevent the spread of skin cancer. It can also reduce the need for more invasive treatment. During a comprehensive eye exam, in addition to examining the eyes, your eye doctor will evaluate the health of the eyelids and can spot subtle symptoms.  
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Protecting the skin around your eyes

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help reduce your chances of skin cancer around the eyes, including:

• Wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection
• Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen around the eyes
• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat
• Seeking shade when available 
• Limiting sun exposure at peak times as much as possible 

Early detection of skin cancer around the eyes can protect your vision and your overall well-being. If you would like to schedule an eye appointment with one of our eye doctors, please call our office at 508-746-8600. 
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