Lung Cancer Detected Through Eye Symptoms: What Was the Progression?

Recently, a case in Malaysia where a 60-year-old woman discovered lung cancer due to abnormal eye symptoms has garnered attention. This woman noticed a gradual decline in her vision in her right eye and sought an ophthalmologist's consultation. Initially, ocular tuberculosis was suspected. However, further examinations led to unexpected results.

Why Eye Health Should Not Be Overlooked

Ophthalmic examinations revealed a non-pigmented mass in the choroid, along with exudative retinal detachment. This indicated a problem in the vascular layer at the back of the eye. Subsequently, the patient developed a severe condition known as neovascular glaucoma. Her vision deteriorated to the point where she could only perceive light, and she experienced extreme eye pain. These symptoms were too severe to be attributed to a simple eye condition.

Lung Cancer Revealed Through Systemic Examination

During a comprehensive systemic examination, a mass was detected in her right lung. A CT-guided lung biopsy confirmed lung adenocarcinoma. It was ultimately revealed that the choroidal mass in her eye was a metastasis from the lung adenocarcinoma. In other words, the patient's eye symptoms were not merely an ocular issue but a sign of systemic cancer.

• The choroidal lesion in the eye was a metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma.
• The primary cancer was lung adenocarcinoma.
• The systemic cancer was in an advanced stage.

Treatment Direction and Outcome

The medical team discussed various treatment options based on the patient's condition. However, the cancer was already advanced, and the prognosis for vision recovery in her right eye was poor. Enucleation for pain management was considered, but the patient and her family refused. Ultimately, the medical team administered palliative external radiation therapy to the right orbit, but vision was not restored. Four months after treatment, her right eye became atrophic.

Finally, the medical team emphasized that choroidal metastasis is the most common intraocular malignancy in adults and reiterated the importance of early detection. They specifically advised that when a choroidal mass is detected, it is crucial to promptly differentiate and diagnose malignancy and conduct timely systemic evaluations.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of eye health. If you experience any abnormalities in your eyes, it is essential to seek professional medical attention. Protect your precious eye health!