Ocular morbidity after radiotherapy of orbital and conjunctival lymphoma

Enhancement of lacrimal gland cell function by decellularized lacrimal gland derived hydrogel

Sustainable treatment of aqueous deficient dry eye (ADDE) represents an unmet medical need and therefore requires new curative and regenerative approaches based on appropriatein vitromodels. Tissue specific hydrogels retain the individual biochemical composition of the extracellular matrix and thus promote the inherent cell´s physiological function. Hence, we created a decellularized lacrimal gland (LG) hydrogel (dLG-HG) meeting the requirements for a bioink as the basis of a LG model with potential forin vitroADDE studies. Varying hydrolysis durations were compared to obtain dLG-HG with best possible physical and ultrastructural properties while preserving the original biochemical composition. A particular focus was placed on dLG-HG´s impact on viability and functionality of LG associated cell types with relevance for a futurein vitromodel in comparison to the unspecific single component hydrogel collagen type-I (Col) and the common cell culture substrate Matrigel. Proliferation of LG epithelial cells (EpC), LG mesenchymal stem cells, and endothelial cells cultured on dLG-HG was enhanced compared to culture on Matrigel. Most importantly with respect to a functionalin vitromodel, the secretion capacity of EpC cultured on dLG-HG was higher than that of EpC cultured on Col or Matrigel. In addition to these promising cell related properties, a rapid matrix metalloproteinase-dependent biodegradation was observed, which on the one hand suggests a lively cell-matrix interaction, but on the other hand limits the cultivation period. Concluding, dLG-HG possesses decisive properties for the tissue engineering of a LGin vitromodel such as cytocompatibility and promotion of secretion, making it superior to unspecific cell culture substrates. However, deceleration of biodegradation should be addressed in future experiments.

The Impact of Robotic Fractionated Radiotherapy for Benign Tumors of Parasellar Region on the Eye Structure and Function

PURPOSE

To evaluate the radiation effect of fractionated robotic radiotherapy of benign tumors located in the parasellar region on the anterior and posterior segments of the eye.

METHODS

A prospective observational study based on the expanded ophthalmological examination. The pre-treatment baseline was used as a control for the post-radiotherapy follow-up examinations. The study group consists of 34 patients (68 eyes) irradiated using the CyberKnife system. There were ten patients with cavernous sinus meningioma, nine with pituitary adenoma, five with meningioma of the anterior and middle cranial fossa, five with meningioma in the region close to optic chiasm, three with craniopharyngioma, and two with meningioma of the orbit. All patients were treated using three fractions of 600-800 cGy. We assessed the impact of radiation on the eye based on changes in anatomical and functional features. The condition of the eye surface, central corneal thickness (CCT), endothelial cell density (ECD), lens densitometry, central macular thickness (CMT), and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) were the anatomical features assessed. The functional tests were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), visual field (VF) and visual-evoked potentials (VEP). An ophthalmologic examination was performed before and 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after radiotherapy.

RESULTS

We did not observe any significant changes in BCVA, IOP, CCT, CMT, VF, and VEP, nor in the slit-lamp examination during the two-years observation. We found a significant decrease in ECD at all follow-up measurements. The drop in ECD exceeded approximated age-related physiological loss. The reduction in ECD was not large enough to disrupt corneal function and thus affect vision. We also observed a statistically significant reduction of RNFL in all observation time points. However, there was no correlation between the dose delivered to the optic pathway and the decrease in RNFL thickness. The thinning of the RNFL was not significant enough to impair visual function.

CONCLUSION

Fractionated robotic radiotherapy of the tumors located close to the optical pathway is safe and does not impair patient's vision. Minor changes found in optic nerve anatomy (RNFL thinning) might be related to radiation effect or tumor compression. The causal relation between low doses of radiation delivered to the cornea and the observed significant but slight decrease in ECD is uncertain. The observed changes did not cause visual disturbances perceivable by the patients.

Primary radiation therapy in stage I/II indolent orbital lymphoma - a comprehensive retrospective recurrence and toxicity analysis

PURPOSE OR OBJECTIVE

To provide a comprehensive recurrence and toxicity analysis of patients treated with radiotherapy alone for stage I/II (Ann-Arbor classification) indolent orbital lymphoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of 46 patients (and 51 orbits) treated at our centre with radiotherapy between 1995 and 2012 for biopsy-proven stage I/IIE primary orbital lymphomas. We evaluated treatment response and performed a comprehensive toxicity analysis with correlation to delivered radiation dose.

RESULTS

At diagnosis, the median age was 63.5 years (range: 20-92). At initial diagnosis 43 and 3 patients had unilateral, synchronous bilateral involvement while there were 2 cases of contralateral metachronous failure. The predominant histological subtype was extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue in 42 (91.3%), follicular in 1 (2.2%), lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma in 1 (2.2%) and other indolent histology in 2 (4.3%) patients. Most lymphomas were located in the conjunctiva (18/35.3%) or eyelids (18/35.3%). Thirty-eight (82.6%) patients presented with stage I while 8/46 (17.4%) with stage II disease. The median radiation dose was 39.6 Gy (range: 21.6-48.6 Gy) delivered in 1.8-2 Gy single fractions. At a median follow-up of 83 months (range: 7-258 months), the complete remission rate was 98%. A local relapse was observed in 2/51 (3.9%) orbits and 4/46 (8.7%) patients had systemic relapse. The 5- and 10-year PFS rates were 79.2% (95% CI: 73.0%-85.4%) and 67.6% (95% CI: 59.4%-75.8%); 5- and 10-year OS was 83.6% (95% CI: 77.9%-89.3%) and 76.5% (95% CI: 69.4%-83.6%), respectively. In total, 66 acute toxicity events (all-grade) were observed: 5/51 (9.8%) ≥G2 acute conjunctivitis, 2/51 (3.9%) cases of G2 acute keratitis, 1/51 (2%) cases of ≥G2 ophthalmagia and 12/51 (23.5%) cases of ≥G2 xerophthalmia. Furthermore, 45 chronic adverse events were observed in 34/51 (66.7%) irradiated orbits with 30 late adverse events attributed to cataract.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis confirms the role of radiotherapy alone at lower doses in the treatment of indolent orbital lymphomas. Further research is required to assess the efficacy of ultra-low-dose radiotherapy and anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies to further mitigate long-term sequelae.

Organs at risk radiation dose constraints

Dose constraints are essential for performing dosimetry, especially for intensity modulation and for radiotherapy under stereotaxic conditions. We present the update of the recommendations of the French society of oncological radiotherapy for the use of these doses in classical current practice but also for reirradiation.

Radiation retinopathy intricacies and advances in management

Background: Radiation retinopathy is a chronic, progressive, vision-threatening complication from exposure to various radiation sources. While several treatment modalities are available, proper management for this disease is a continuing challenge with no consensus on the most efficacious.Objective: The aim of this article is to provide an updated review of the published literature on the course of the disease, available treatments and their efficacies, frequency of regimen, core issues in patient management, and additional newer treatment modalities, including possible prophylactic approaches.Value: We also highlighted the challenges encountered with managing chronically treated patients through an analysis of a clinical case report on a patient who was treated for several years with different modalities after a diagnosis of radiation retinopathy.

Alterations in meibomian glands in patients treated with intensity-modulated radiotherapy for head and neck cancer

Patients undergoing intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for head and neck cancer may have increased incidence of dry eye disease and the exact mechanism is unclear. The present study aims to assess tear film and meibomian gland (MG) features in patients who received IMRT for head and neck cancer not involving the orbital area. Twenty-seven patients (64.7 ± 9.8 years) and 30 age-matched controls (61.4 ± 11.0 years) underwent a comprehensive dry eye work-up. Compared to the control group, the patients had more lid margin abnormalities, and worse meibum quality. The MG loss, calculated as (tarsal area-MG area)/tarsal area, was higher in the patient group in both the upper (53.0 ± 12.0% vs. 35.1 ± 10.3%, p < 0.001) and lower lids (69.5 ± 12.6% vs. 48.5 ± 12.5%, p < 0.001). In the patient group, more MG loss in the lower lids correlated with worse meibum quality (r = 0.445, p = 0.029). In contrast, there was no significant difference in aqueous tear production level, measured with Schirmer test. Patients treated with IMRT for head and neck cancer seemed to have comparable lacrimal gland function to the controls despite more dry eye symptoms. However, the patients had MG functional and morphological changes, which may present a higher risk for developing dry eye disease.

Effects of radiation therapy on the meibomian glands and dry eye in patients with ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Radiation therapy (RT) is the treatment of choice in patients with low-grade ocular adenexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (OAML) and many of them experience post-RT dry eye with varying severity. The purpose of the present study was to investigate ocular effects of RT on meibomian glands and dry eye by directly visualizing structural changes. Secondly, we focused on the comparison of two groups of patients according to tumor location and radiation technique.

METHODS

Sixty-four eyes with OAML of conjunctiva, orbit, lacrimal gland, or lacrimal sac were grouped into conjunctival lymphoma and "orbital-type" lymphoma (i.e., orbit, lacrimal gland, and lacrimal sac). Subjects were investigated for morphological changes in meibomian glands by meiboscore grading system. Radiation technique was examined and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer's test, tear film break-up time (TBUT), slit lamp examination of corneal surface and lid margin abnormality were conducted before and after RT.

RESULTS

The increase in meiboscore was statistically significant over time after RT in both groups (P < 0.001). The extent of increase in meiboscore was significantly greater in the "orbital-type" lymphoma group than in the conjunctival lymphoma group (P < 0.001). The changes in OSDI, TBUT, corneal fluorescein staining score and lid margin abnormality score after RT were significantly different across two groups (P = 0.042, 0.001, 0.035 and 0.001, respectively). Schirmer's value decreased after RT in both groups. Dry eye symptoms were most severe right after RT in both groups, but a gradual resolution was noted in most patients with conjunctival lymphoma, whereas symptoms persisted in "orbital-type" lymphoma patients. The OSDI score and corneal fluorescein staining score were positively correlated with meiboscore in "orbital-type" patients at post-RT 6 months (r = 0.43, P = 0.04; r = 0.39, P = 0.03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with OAML had different degrees of morphological changes in meibomian glands according to tumor location and radiation technique. "Orbital-type" lymphoma patients are more likely to experience severe injury to meibomian glands, which eventually leads to persistent dry eye. Patients with "orbital-type" lymphoma should be well informed of post-RT damage on meibomian glands and persistent dry eye.

Classification, diagnosis, and management of conjunctival lymphoma

Lymphoma is a malignant lymphoproliferative tumor that can involve the conjunctiva. Approximately 5-15% of all extranodal lymphomas are found in the ocular adnexal region, with approximately 25% of those involving the conjunctiva. Ninety-eight percent of conjunctival lymphomas arise from B-lymphocytes. The most common subtype of conjunctival lymphoma is extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (80%), followed by follicular lymphoma (8%), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (3%) and mantle cell lymphoma (3%). Natural killer and T cells (NK/T) are rare causes of lymphoma. While most conjunctival lymphomas are localized to the ocular adnexa at the time of presentation, systemic examination and management are of key importance in the long-term care of the patient. This review outlines the classification, etiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of conjunctival lymphoma. The novel use of high resolution optical coherence tomography, both as a diagnostic tool and as a means for ongoing evaluation during treatment, is illustrated. Treatment options discussed include external beam radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, antibiotic therapy, and combination regimens. Future investigation of the etiology and pathogenesis of conjunctival lymphoma is expected to reveal opportunities for innovative and individualized therapeutic agents. Collaboration between multiple disciplines is key in the advancement of the field.

Radiation dose constraints for organs at risk in neuro-oncology; the European Particle Therapy Network consensus

PURPOSE

For unbiased comparison of different radiation modalities and techniques, consensus on delineation of radiation sensitive organs at risk (OARs) and on their dose constraints is warranted. Following the publication of a digital, online atlas for OAR delineation in neuro-oncology by the same group, we assessed the brain OAR-dose constraints in a follow-up study.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search to identify the current papers on OAR dose constraints for normofractionated photon and particle therapy in PubMed, Ovid Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science. Moreover, the included articles' reference lists were cross-checked for potential studies that met the inclusion criteria. Consensus was reached among 20 radiation oncology experts in the field of neuro-oncology.

RESULTS

For the OARs published in the neuro-oncology literature, we summarized the available literature and recommended dose constraints associated with certain levels of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) according to the recent ICRU recommendations. For those OARs with lacking or insufficient NTCP data, a proposal for effective and efficient data collection is given.

CONCLUSION

The use of the European Particle Therapy Network-consensus OAR dose constraints summarized in this article is recommended for the model-based approach comparing photon and proton beam irradiation as well as for prospective clinical trials including novel radiation techniques and/or modalities.

Interferon Alpha in the Therapy of Conjunctival Lymphoma in An Hiv+ Patient

The authors evaluated the efficacy of interferon-alpha used intralesionally in the therapy of low-grade conjunctival non-Hodgkin lymphoma in an HIV-positive patient. The patient received one intralesional injection of 1,000,000 U of interferon-alpha three times a week for a total of twelve doses. The remission of conjunctival involvement was seen three months from the end of therapy. The intralesional use of interferon-alpha can be considered an efficacious therapy for low-grade conjunctival non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Risk of dry eye syndrome in patients treated with whole-brain radiotherapy

With improvements in systemic therapy, patients with cancer treated with whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) are living long enough to develop late toxicities, including dry eye syndrome. In general practice, dose to the lacrimal gland (LG) is not constrained (maximum constraint <40 Gy) in WBRT. The purpose of this study was to measure dose to the LG in WBRT and determine methods for reducing radiation exposure. We conducted a retrospective review of 70 3-dimensional (3D) conformal plans; thirty-six plans with a radiation prescription of 30 Gy in 10 fractions and 34 plans with a prescription of 37.5 Gy in 15 fractions. LGs were contoured in accordance with Freedman and Sidani (2015). Biological effective dose (BED)3 maximum constraints were calculated from 40 Gy and 20 Gy to be 32.17 Gy (30 Gy) and 36.70 Gy (37.5 Gy). Both regimens demonstrated supraorbital blocking by 3 methods: T1, bordering the supraorbital ridge; T2, no contact with supraorbital ridge; and T3, coverage of the supraorbital ridge. Mean dose for the plans with a 30-Gy prescription and the plans with a 37.5-Gy prescription was 27.5 Gy and 35.2 Gy, respectively (p ≤ 0.0001). BED3 maximum constraint (D_max) was violated 16 of 26 (61.5%) in T1 (average D_max: 32.2 Gy), 13 of 28 (46.4%) in T2 (average D_max: 32.1 Gy), and 5 of 18 (27.8%) in T3 (average D_max: 31.8 Gy) for the 30-Gy prescription. D_max was violated in 32 of 32 (100%) in T1 (average D_max: 40.1 Gy), 22 of 22 (100%) in T2 (average D_max: 40.3 Gy), and 14 of 14 (100%) in T3 (average D_max: 39.4) for the 37.5 Gy prescription. Average D_max for the 37.5-Gy prescription was highly significant in favor of T3 (p = 0.0098). Patients who receive WBRT may develop dry eye syndrome as a late toxicity. Constraints are commonly violated with a prescription of 37.5 Gy. Methods to reduce dose include T3 supraorbital blocking, an easily implementable change that may dramatically improve patient quality of life.

TFOS DEWS II pathophysiology report

The TFOS DEWS II Pathophysiology Subcommittee reviewed the mechanisms involved in the initiation and perpetuation of dry eye disease. Its central mechanism is evaporative water loss leading to hyperosmolar tissue damage. Research in human disease and in animal models has shown that this, either directly or by inducing inflammation, causes a loss of both epithelial and goblet cells. The consequent decrease in surface wettability leads to early tear film breakup and amplifies hyperosmolarity via a Vicious Circle. Pain in dry eye is caused by tear hyperosmolarity, loss of lubrication, inflammatory mediators and neurosensory factors, while visual symptoms arise from tear and ocular surface irregularity. Increased friction targets damage to the lids and ocular surface, resulting in characteristic punctate epithelial keratitis, superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis, filamentary keratitis, lid parallel conjunctival folds, and lid wiper epitheliopathy. Hybrid dry eye disease, with features of both aqueous deficiency and increased evaporation, is common and efforts should be made to determine the relative contribution of each form to the total picture. To this end, practical methods are needed to measure tear evaporation in the clinic, and similarly, methods are needed to measure osmolarity at the tissue level across the ocular surface, to better determine the severity of dry eye. Areas for future research include the role of genetic mechanisms in non-Sjögren syndrome dry eye, the targeting of the terminal duct in meibomian gland disease and the influence of gaze dynamics and the closed eye state on tear stability and ocular surface inflammation.

Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye Syndrome Post Orbital Radiotherapy: A 10-Year Retrospective Study

Purpose

Despite advances in orbital radiotherapy (XRT), a significant proportion of patients develop ophthalmic complication like dry eye syndrome (DES). The study evaluates the prevalence of aqueous deficient DES (ADDE) and lacrimal gland (LG) changes through histologic evaluation and ex-vivo expansion potential postorbital XRT.

Methods

With the approval of the institutional review board, medical records of patients who underwent orbital XRT as management protocol were reviewed for evidence of ADDE using DEWS (Dry Eye Workshop) 2007 criteria (n = 51). HuLG was harvested from three of these patients who underwent subsequent orbital exenteration and used for histological studies/ex-vivo culture.

Results

ADDE was noted in 47.07% of the patients, status postorbital XRT, with a prediction of nearly 50% developing it within 0.5 to 2.9 years. ADDE severity was grade 2 (18%), grade 3 (14%), and grade 4 (17%). Other comorbidities were radiation retinopathy (33.4%), radiation-induced cataract (24.9%), and radiation keratopathy (20.8%). Multivariate and univariate analysis showed that fraction of radiation and dose of radiation/fraction were significant risk factors; male gender and young age were protective factors. The post-XRT exenterated HuLG showed near-total effacement of histoarchitecture with intra/periductal and intra/interlobular fibrosis, loss of acini, and reduced secretory activity. The potential of the LG to expand and grow in culture was impaired with loss of stem cells as compared to normal HuLG.

Conclusion

This study documents that orbital-XRT is associated with morphological and functional loss of lacrimal function in nearly 50% of the patients with a prediction of two-third developing ADDE by the end of 5 years.

Translational Relevance

The study provides objective clinical evidence for DES development due to architectural/functional damage to the LG postorbital XRT. Based on recent findings that the LG can be cultured in-vitro, with preservation of stem cells and secretory potential, it would be logical to harvest a portion of LG before radiation, and expand and transplant it to rescue the damaged gland if indicated.

A dosimetric comparison of proton and intensity modulated radiation therapy in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma patients enrolled on a prospective phase II proton study

BACKGROUND

Pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is highly curable, however, cure may come with significant radiation related toxicity in developing tissues. Proton therapy (PT) can spare excess dose to normal structures, potentially reducing the incidence of adverse effects.

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2012, 54 patients were enrolled on a prospective multi-institutional phase II trial using PT in pediatric RMS. As part of the protocol, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans were generated for comparison with clinical PT plans.

RESULTS

Target coverage was comparable between PT and IMRT plans with a mean CTV V95 of 100% for both modalities (p=0.82). However, mean integral dose was 1.8 times higher for IMRT (range 1.0-4.9). By site, mean integral dose for IMRT was 1.8 times higher for H&N (p<0.01) and GU (p=0.02), 2.0 times higher for trunk/extremity (p<0.01), and 3.5 times higher for orbit (p<0.01) compared to PT. Significant sparing was seen with PT in 26 of 30 critical structures assessed for orbital, head and neck, pelvic, and trunk/extremity patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Proton radiation lowers integral dose and improves normal tissue sparing when compared to IMRT for pediatric RMS. Correlation with clinical outcomes is necessary once mature long-term toxicity data are available.

Recovery of radiation-induced dry eye and corneal damage by pretreatment with adenoviral vector-mediated transfer of erythropoietin to the salivary glands in mice

Therapeutic doses of radiation (RTx) causes dry eye syndrome (DES), dry mouth, and as in other sicca syndromes, they are incurable. The aims of this work are as follows: (a) to evaluate a mouse model of DES induced by clinically relevant doses of radiation, and (b) to evaluate the protective effect of erythropoietin (Epo) in preventing DES. C3H female mice were subjected to five sessions of RTx, with or without pre-RTx retroductal administration of the AdLTR2EF1a-hEPO (AdEpo) vector in the salivary glands (SG), and compared with naïve controls at Day 10 (10d) (8 Gy fractions) and 56 days (56d) (6 Gy fractions) after RTx treatment. Mice were tested for changes in lacrimal glands (LG), tear secretion (phenol red thread), weight, hematocrit (Hct), and markers of inflammation, as well as microvessels and oxidative damage. Tear secretion was reduced in both RTx groups, compared to controls, by 10d. This was also seen at 56d in RTx but not AdEpo+RTx group. Hct was significantly higher in all AdEpo+RTx mice at 10d and 56d. Corneal epithelium was significantly thinner at 10d in the RTx group compared with AdEpo+RTx or the control mice. There was a significant reduction at 10d in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-R2 in LG in the RTx group that was prevented in the AdEpo+RTx group. In conclusion, RTx is able to induce DES in mice. AdEpo administration protected corneal epithelia and resulted in some recovery of LG function, supporting the value of further studies using gene therapy for extraglandular diseases.

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy for head and neck cancer

In head and neck cancer, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) makes the use of electron beams for irradiation of the posterior neck obsolete, inherently performs missing tissue compensation, and allows concave and intentionally nonhomogeneous dose distributions. By clinical use of these physical characteristics, salivary or lacrimal glands, optic pathway and auditory structures can be selectively underdosed and good evidence of decreased radiation toxicity is available. Evidence for increased local control is still lacking. Recurrences are mainly located in the high-dose-prescription regions, suggesting the need for even higher doses in these areas. Image-aided design of IMRT dose distribution is an area of intense research. New positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance imaging developments might allow definition of volumes inside the tumor where treatment failure is most likely to occur. If these volumes are small, focused dose escalation of large magnitude can be attempted and the hypothesis of improved local control by IMRT can be tested.

Clinical-dosimetric relationship between lacrimal gland dose and ocular toxicity after intensity-modulated radiotherapy for sinonasal tumours

OBJECTIVE

To characterise the relationship between lacrimal gland dose and ocular toxicity among patients treated by intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for sinonasal tumours.

METHODS

40 patients with cancers involving the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses were treated with IMRT to a median dose of 66.0 Gy. Toxicity was scored using the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group morbidity criteria based on conjunctivitis, corneal ulceration and keratitis. The paired lacrimal glands were contoured as organs at risk, and the mean dose, maximum dose, V10, V20 and V30 were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using logistic regression and the Akaike information criterion (AIC).

RESULTS

The maximum and mean dose to the ipsilateral lacrimal gland were 19.2 Gy (range, 1.4-75.4 Gy) and 14.5 Gy (range, 11.1-67.8 Gy), respectively. The mean V10, V20 and V30 values were 50%, 25% and 17%, respectively. The incidence of acute and late Grade 3+ toxicities was 23% and 19%, respectively. Based on logistic regression and AIC, the maximum dose to the ipsilateral lacrimal gland was identified as a more significant predictor of acute toxicity (AIC, 53.89) and late toxicity (AIC, 32.94) than the mean dose (AIC, 56.13 and 33.83, respectively). The V20 was identified as the most significant predictor of late toxicity (AIC, 26.81).

CONCLUSION

A dose-response relationship between maximum dose to the lacrimal gland and ocular toxicity was established. Our data suggesting a threshold relationship may be useful in establishing dosimetric guidelines for IMRT planning that may decrease the risk of acute and late lacrimal toxicities in the future.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

A threshold relationship between radiation dose to the lacrimal gland and ocular toxicity was demonstrated, which may aid in treatment planning and reducing the morbidity of radiotherapy for sinonasal tumours.

Cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion for the treatment of radiation-associated dry eye in children

Dry eye disease is a well-known late complication of radiation therapy and is often difficult to treat. We evaluated the usefulness of cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion for the treatment of radiation-associated dry eye in children. Eleven children received cyclosporine 0.05% emulsion twice daily after failure of conventional therapy. After 6 months, dry eye manifestations improved in three children (27.3%). The remaining eight children showed no improvement with cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion. These results suggest that twice-daily cyclosporine 0.05% ophthalmic emulsion has limited use in children with refractory radiation-associated chronic dry eye.

Prevention of cytarabine-induced kerato-conjunctivitis by eye rinse in patients receiving high-dose cytarabine and total body irradiation as a conditioning for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

We previously reported a high incidence of kerato-conjunctivitis in patients receiving high-dose cytarabine following total body irradiation (TBI) as a conditioning for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) even on prophylaxis with topical corticosteroid. This study aimed to evaluate whether addition of eye rinse, which was designed to remove cytarabine from ocular surface, further reduces the incidence of kerato-conjunctivitis in the same setting. Seventy-six patients receiving cytarabine at a dose of 3 g/m(2) every 12 h for 4 days after receiving TBI (12 Gy) as conditioning for HSCT were evaluated. All patients received betamethasone sodium phosphate eye drops. Twenty-three patients were further instructed to rinse their eyes with sterile saline every 10-15 min during and for two additional hours after the completion of each cytarabine infusion. Among 23 patients with eye rinse, Grades 2-3 and 1-3 kerato-conjunctivitis were observed in 4 (17.4%) and 5 patients (21.7%), respectively. These incidences were significantly lower than those [35 (66.0%) and 41 (77.4%)] observed in 53 patients without eye rinse (P < 0.001 and P < 0.00001, respectively). These results strongly suggest that eye rinse effectively reduces the incidence and severity of cytarabine-induced kerato-conjunctivitis in HSCT recipients who receive high-dose cytarabine following TBI.

Severe dry eye syndrome after radiotherapy for head-and-neck tumors

PURPOSE

To investigate the incidence of severe dry eye syndrome (DES) after external beam radiotherapy for head-and-neck cancer and its dependence on the parameters relevant to external beam radiotherapy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

The present retrospective study included 78 patients treated for primary extracranial head-and-neck tumors between 1965 and 2000, whose lacrimal apparatus/entire globe was exposed to fractionated external beam radiotherapy. The dose received by the major lacrimal gland was used for analysis. The end point of the present study was the ophthalmologic diagnosis of severe DES leading to vision compromise.

RESULTS

Of the 78 patients, 40 developed severe DES leading to visual compromise. The incidence of DES increased steadily from 6% at 35-39.99 Gy to 50% at 45-49.99 Gy and 90% at 60-64.99 Gy. With a mean of 0.9 years (range, 1 month to 3 years), the latency of DES was observed to be a function of the total dose and the dose per fraction. On univariate and multivariate analysis, the total dose (p < .0001 and p < .0001, respectively) and dose per fraction (p ≤ .0001 and p = .0044, respectively) were significant. However, age, gender, and the use of chemoradiotherapy were not. The actuarial analysis indicated a 5-year probability of freedom from DES of 93% for doses <45 Gy, 29% for 45-59.9 Gy, and 3% doses ≥60 Gy. A logistic normal tissue complication probability model fit to our data obtained a dose of 34 and 38 Gy corresponding to a 5% and 10% incidence of DES.

CONCLUSION

With a dose of 34 Gy corresponding to a 5% incidence of DES, the risk of severe DES increased, and the latency decreased with an increase in the total dose and dose per fraction to the lacrimal gland. The effect of chemoradiotherapy and hyperfractionation on the risk of DES needs additional investigation.

[Principles of radiation therapy for malignant tumors of the orbit and the periorbital area]

Primary malignant tumors of the orbit and the orbital adnexal area are rare, variform and in the majority of cases need an interdisciplinary treatment. According to tumor entity, tumor localization, and tumor extent the complete spectrum of radiotherapeutic therapy options is necessary. In the majority of malignant tumors, such as those of the eyelids, lachrymal glands, orbit, metastases, sarcoma or lymphoma, radiotherapy is used as a high energy therapy by means of medical linear accelerators as so-called teletherapy. In addition, new therapy methods, such as stereotactic highly conformal radiation or intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) were developed to achieve a higher local tumor control by a better configuration of the radiotherapy fields to the tumor borders and to contribute to a reduction of acute and chronic side effects in normal tissue by blurring of the dose. The application of ionizing radiation sources, such as so-called interstitial brachytherapy can also be just as carefully as effectively used. Particle beam radiotherapy is limited only to specially licensed centers and light hydrogen ions as proton therapy or carbon ions as heavy ion radiotherapy are in use. This overview will show the options as well as important progress in the field of radiotherapy in the treatment of tumors of the orbit and periorbital area.

A case of radiation retinopathy of left eye after radiation therapy of right brain metastasis

A 37-year-old female, who had received modified radical mastectomy for cancer of her right breast, presented with decreased visual acuity in the left eye after radiation therapy for the management of the metastasis to her right brain 14 months ago. After ocular examination, we diagnosed her as radiation retinopathy. At the time of the first visit, the corrected best visual acuity was 0.4 in the left eye, and fundus examination revealed cotton wool spots and cystoid macular edema (CME). The findings in the right eye were normal except for cotton wool spots in the superior major arch. Fluorescein angiography (FA) showed marked telangiectasia and microaneurysms in her left eye but tiny microaneurysms in her right eye. Subsequent optical coherent tomography (OCT) showed CME. We injected intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (TA). Two weeks after treatment, the visual acuity was improved to 0.6 and the retinal thickness was decreased. Three months later, the visual acuity in the left eye was dropped to 0.3 due to the recurrence of CME, so we injected intravitreal TA again. Five months later, visual acuity was improved to 0.5 and OCT revealed the improvement of CME. The incidence of radiation retinopathy is higher in the side nearer to radiation, but careful radiation blocking is also required on the opposite side of irradiation site considering the possibility of radiation retinopathy and careful observation is required on both sides of the eyes when performing fundus examination.

Lacrimal gland radiosensitivity in uveal melanoma patients

PURPOSE

To find a dose-volume effect for inhomogeneous irradiated lacrimal glands.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between 1999 and 2006, 72 patients (42 men and 30 women) were treated with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy in a prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial (median follow-up, 32 months). A total dose of 50 Gy was given on 5 consecutive days. The mean of all Schirmer test results obtained > or =6 months after treatment was correlated with the radiation dose delivered to the lacrimal gland. Also, the appearance of dry eye syndrome (DES) was related to the lacrimal gland dose distribution.

RESULTS

Of the 72 patients, 17 developed a late Schirmer value <10 mm; 9 patients developed DES. A statistically significant relationship was found between the received median dose in the lacrimal gland vs. reduced tear production (p = 0.000) and vs. the appearance of DES (p = 0.003), respectively. A median dose of 7 Gy/fraction to the lacrimal gland caused a 50% risk of low Schirmer results. A median dose of 10 Gy resulted in a 50% probability of DES.

CONCLUSION

We found a clear dose-volume relationship for irradiated lacrimal glands with regard to reduced tear production and the appearance of DES.

Reduced efficacy of topical corticosteroid in preventing cytarabine-induced kerato-conjunctivitis in patients receiving high-dose cytarabine and total body irradiation for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the incidence of kerato-conjunctivitis in patients receiving TBI followed by high-dose cytarabine, and to clarify how effectively topical corticosteroid eye drops prevent kerato-conjunctivitis in these patients. Fifty-three patients who received cytarabine at a dose of 3 g/m2 every 12 h for 4 days after receiving TBI (12 Gy) as a conditioning for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) were evaluated. For the prophylaxis of kerato-conjunctivitis, all patients received betamethasone sodium phosphate eye drops every 6 h, starting 1 day before the first dose of cytarabine and continuing until 1 day after the last dose of cytarabine or the complete resolution of ocular symptoms. For grading of kerato-conjuncitivitis, the National Cancer Institute-Common Toxicity Criteria were used. Among the 53 patients, the grades of kerato-conjunctivitis were grade 0 in 13 patients, grade 1 in 6 patients (11.3%), grade 2 in 10 patients (18.9%) and grade 3 in 25 patients (47.2%). These results strongly suggest that topical corticosteroid eye drops could not effectively prevent the development of cytarabine-induced kerato-conjunctivitis in HSCT recipients who receive high-dose cytarabine following TBI. Further investigation into a more effective prophylaxis for cytarabine-induced kerato-conjunctivitis in this setting is required.

Indolent Stage IE Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma of the Orbit: Results after Primary Radiotherapy

AIMS

Primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) of the orbit is uncommon, representing approximately 8% of extranodal NHLs. Twenty-two patients with indolent stage IE NHL were reviewed retrospectively to analyze the outcome and late effects of primary local radiotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The median age at first diagnosis was 63.5 years (range 24-82 years). Extranodal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (n = 15) was the most common histological subtype of NHL, followed by follicular (n = 6) and lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (n = 1). Radiotherapy was performed using a linear accelerator. The median radiation dose was 40 Gy (range 30-46 Gy). None of the patients received chemotherapy before irradiation. The follow-up period was 62 months (range 8-136 months).

RESULTS

A complete response was achieved in all patients. The 5-year local control rate was 100%. Distant relapse occurred in 2 patients, resulting in a 5-year distant relapse-free survival rate of 88%. The 5-year overall survival rate was 89%; there were no lymphoma-related deaths. No serious acute complications (grade 3/4) were observed. Grade 1/2 late effects were documented in 44% of patients. Grade 3 complications (cataract: 2, dryness: 2) were observed in 4 patients (18%).

CONCLUSIONS

Indolent early stage orbital NHL can be controlled with local radiotherapy. Morbidity is low. Regular follow-up examinations are necessary to detect rare cases of distant relapse.

Localized conjunctival mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is amenable to local chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Conjunctival mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is a rare, low-grade, non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma. We report our successful management of localized conjunctival MALT lymphoma with topical Mitomycin C (MMC).

METHODS

This is a case report. A 35-year-old woman had a mobile painless 1.5x1-cm mass in the left conjunctiva for 2 years. Examination revealed two similar masses in the right conjunctiva. Incisional biopsy for immunohistochemical stain and PCR of the left conjunctival mass showed MALT lymphoma. She was given four courses of topical 0.04% MMC eyedrops. There was transient conjunctival injection and superficial punctate keratopathy which responded to topical steroid and lubricant.

RESULTS

The lesions regressed completely after the fourth cycle of treatment and repeat biopsy confirmed complete remission.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of localized conjunctival MALT lymphoma being successfully treated by topical MMC with minimal local controllable side effects.

Pharmacological prevention of radiation-induced dry eye-an experimental study in a rabbit model

PURPOSE

To evaluate the radioprotective effect of lidocaine, amifostine and pilocarpine on lacrimal glands.

METHODS

Twenty-five rabbits were randomized into five groups: the control, irradiated/sham-treated, irradiated/lidocaine-pretreated, irradiated/amifostine-pretreated and irradiated/pilocarpine-pretreated groups. One week before irradiation, 72 h and 1 month afterward, the inferior lacrimal gland was investigated histomorphologically, immunohistochemically [tenascin-C and alpha smooth muscle actin (alpha-SMA)] and functionally using scintigraphy and the Schirmer test.

RESULTS

Compared with control animals, the lacrimal ejection fraction (LEF) in the irradiated/sham-treated group was significantly reduced 72 h afterwards. Pilocarpine- as well as amifostine-pretreated animals showed a slightly lower reduction. Lidocaine stabilized the LEF. Immunohistochemically, a significant loss of alpha-SMA and an up-regulation of tenascin-C expression in irradiated/untreated glands were evident. Pretreatment with lidocaine and amifostine-but not with pilocarpine-induced lower up-regulation of TN-C expression 72 h after radiation. One month after irradiation a reduction of the immunhistochemical changes at all was found. Ultrastructural damage was observed in irradiated/non-treated and pilocarpine-pretreated glands, whereas lidocaine and amifostine preserved the ultrastructure.

CONCLUSION

Morphologic and functional findings could prove a prevailing protection profile of amifostine and especially of lidocaine on lacrimal glands. This may provide a prophylactic approach in the radioprotection of the lacrimal glands during radiotherapy of the orbital region.

Ophthalmic and adnexal complications of radiotherapy

The role of radiotherapy in ophthalmic practice continues to grow. This growth has seen an expansion of indications for radiotherapy, a refinement of the modalities that can be used and a reduction in the ocular and adnexal complications that result from this form of therapy. The compendium of indications for radiotherapy in ophthalmology continues to grow and now includes many conditions such as the treatment of lid and adnexal disease, ocular surface disorders and both benign and malignant disease of the posterior segment and optic pathways. The radiotherapeutic modalities employed to manage these conditions are numerous and include both radioactive plaques (brachytherapy) and external beam radiation techniques. New techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery are delivering benefits in the management of conditions such as optic nerve sheath meningioma, where the treatment of this blinding and occasionally life-threatening intracranial neoplasm now results in fewer adverse affects. The purpose of this review is to give a brief overview of the indications and treatment modalities, and a more in-depth discussion of the potential side-effects when radiotherapy is used for ocular and periorbital disease.

Visual outcome of accelerated fractionated radiation for advanced sinonasal malignancies employing photons/protons

PURPOSE

To investigate the visual outcomes of patients with advanced sinonasal malignancies treated with proton/photon accelerated fractionated radiation (AFR).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1991 and 2001, AFR was used to treat 36 patients with advanced stage primary (n=33) or recurrent (n=3) nasal or paranasal malignant tumors. Full ophthalmologic follow-up was documented. The median dose to the gross tumor volume (GTV) was 69.6 CGE (range 60.8-77). Visual complications were graded according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) and the late effects of normal tissue (LENT) scoring systems. The median follow-up was 52.4 months (range 17-122.8).

RESULTS

Thirteen patients developed late visual/ocular toxicity. Cataracts were LENT grade 1 and 3 in 2 patients and 1 patient, respectively. One LENT grade 1 vascular retinopathy and 1 optic neuropathy were also observed. Three and five patients presented with nasolacrimal duct stenosis (CTC grade 2, 2 patients; CTC grade 3, 1 patient) and dry-eye syndrome (CTC grade 1, 1 patient; CTC grade 2, 4 patients), respectively. The 3- and 5-year probability of LENT/CTC grade > or =2 visual toxicity were 15.8+/-6.7% and 20.7+/-7.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

AFR for locally advanced nasal cavity and paranasal sinus tumors enables delivery of 70 CGE to the tumor with acceptable ophthalmologic complications.

Les lymphomes malins non hodgkiniens conjonctivo-orbitaires

INTRODUCTION

Although the number of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) cases continues to grow throughout the world, orbital NHL is still a rare tumor that is difficult to diagnose. The objective of our study was to analyze the different orbital NHLs diagnosed in our Ophthalmology Department during the last 20 years.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

[corrected] We conducted a retrospective study of conjunctive-orbital lymphomas diagnosed in the Amiens Ophthalmology Department between 1982 and 2002. The pathological reports of 22 cases were investigated, notably the mode of onset, the clinical and radiological description, the diagnostic mode, pathological results, and the type of treatment provided for these tumors.

RESULTS

Every NHL was type B. They were for the most part low grade in terms of malignancy, isolated, primitive, orbital and inactive.

DISCUSSION

Insidious, slow-growing lesions are often found, and biopsy can be difficult. This may explain delayed diagnosis. The first differential diagnosis is inflammatory pseudotumor. Only a good biopsy can confirm the diagnosis of NHL.

CONCLUSION

New immunohistochemistry and genetic diagnostic methods make it increasingly possible to screen for NHL, even if the clinical history can be misleading. Moreover, treatments that are more and more precisely targeted to the immunohistochemical type of NHL seem to be giving very promising results. Several studies are ongoing.

Radiotherapy-Induced Ocular Surface Disease

Today radiation is routinely used as a therapeutic modality for select tumors of the orbit, adnexa, paranasal sinus, and nasopharynx. Despite significant improvements in mechanisms of delivery and protective shielding, acute and chronic complications of radiation can affect different segments of the eye. In this report, we provide an overview of ocular damage secondary to radiotherapy. We identify the characteristic clinical changes and underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms involving the ocular surface and provide a rational approach to their prevention and treatment.

Preventing radiation retinopathy with hyperfractionation

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine factors associated with the development of radiation retinopathy in a large series of patients with head-and-neck cancer. In particular, we addressed whether the use of hyperfractionated radiation therapy was effective in reducing the risk of retinopathy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

One hundred eighty-six patients received a significant dose to the retina as part of curative radiotherapy. Primary sites included: nasopharynx, 46; paranasal sinus, 64; nasal cavity, 69; and palate, 7. Prescription doses varied depending on primary site and histology. Hyperfractionated (twice-daily) radiation was delivered to 42% of the patients in this study, typically at 1.10 to 1.20 Gy per fraction. The remainder were treated once-daily. Retinal doses were determined from computerized dosimetry plans when available. For all other patients, retinal doses were retrospectively calculated using reconstructed off-axis dosimetry taken from contours through the center of the globes. Retinal dose was defined as the minimum dose received by at least 25% of the globe. The median retinal dose was 56.85 Gy. Patients were followed for a median of 7.6 years.

RESULTS

Thirty-one eyes in 30 patients developed radiation retinopathy, resulting in monocular blindness in 25, bilateral blindness in 1, and decreased visual acuity in 4. The median time to the diagnosis of retinopathy was 2.6 years (range, 11 months to 5.3 years). The actuarial incidence of developing radiation retinopathy was 20% at both 5 and 10 years. The incidence of developing ipsilateral blindness due to retinopathy was 16% at 5 years and 17% at 10 years. Site-specific incidences varied considerably, with ethmoid sinus (9 of 25, 36%), nasal cavity (13 of 69, 19%), and maxillary sinus (6 of 35, 17%) being the most common sites associated with radiation retinopathy. Three of 72 patients (4%) receiving retinal doses less than 50 Gy developed retinopathy. Higher retinal doses resulted in a steady increase in the incidence of retinopathy, with 25 of the 30 cases occurring after 60 Gy or more. Of the patients receiving more than 50 Gy to the retina, hyperfractionation was associated with a significantly lower incidence of radiation retinopathy (37% vs. 13%; p = 0.0037). On multivariate analysis, retinal dose (p < 0.0001), fractionation schedule (p = 0.0003), age (p = 0.0365), and prolonged overall treatment time (p = 0.0213) were significant predictors of radiation retinopathy.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of ipsilateral radiation retinopathy after treatment of nasal cavity/paranasal tumors is 20% at 5 and 10 years. Retinal dose and fractionation schedule are the strongest predictors of retinopathy. Hyperfractionated radiotherapy is associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of radiation retinopathy, especially when the retina receives more than 50 Gy.

Les contraintes aux organes à risque en radiothérapie par modulation d'intensité des cancers ORL

Constraint definitions in intensity modulated radiation therapy is a key point factor during the treatment planning process. In literature some data are available about dose constraints and volumes according to the tissue architectures. Following ICRU recommendations, organs at risk organized in a parallel structure could receive an acceptably small proportion of high dose component. Mean dose and dose volume histogram is a most convenient tool for incorporating such constraints. Organs described as a serial structure are supposed to receive less than the given maximum dose, directly linked to the occurrence of complications. Dmax is the best way to describe such events. These constraints are new tools in radiation therapy, available for optimizing the dose distribution in target volume, sparing the organs at risk to protect the organ function or at least decreasing the late functional damages like xerostomia. It is necessary to define with accuracy gross target volumes and clinical target volume with available radio-anatomical guidelines before introducing current constraints on each volume in the inverse dosimetry. The management of these constraints remains under the responsibility of the clinicians. A permanent compromise has to be chosen between homogeneity of the dose distribution in the target volume and the probability of preserving functions of organs at risk.

[Radiation-induced retinopathy]

Radiation retinopathy is a retinal microangiopathy, observed after irradiation of the eye. It can rarely lead to neovascular glaucoma and enucleation due to pain. It is due to a progressive retinal capillary then vascular occlusion. Total irradiation dose, dose fraction, and surface of the irradiated retina seem to be strong predictive factors for radiation retinopathy. Patients who underwent an irradiation near the eye (skull base tumors, nasal and paranasal tumors, or brain tumors) should be followed by periodic ophthalmologic examination to detect and treat when necessary the non perfusion areas.

Long-term results of irradiation for patients with progressive Graves' ophthalmopathy

PURPOSE

To determine the long-term outcome of radiotherapy (RT) in patients with progressively symptomatic thyroid eye disease and to evaluate the potential long-term sequelae.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Four hundred fifty-three patients provided written informed consent and received retrobulbar RT for Graves' ophthalmopathy at Stanford University Medical Center; 197 with 1 year of follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Of the 197 patients, 189 received RT to the bilateral retrobulbar regions, and 4 received unilateral RT. The technical information was unavailable for 4 patients. Patients were assessed by chart review, telephone interview, questionnaire, and multidisciplinary physician examination. Eye impairment was scored using the SPECS system. The end point review included the before and after treatment SPECS score, surgical intervention, and patient satisfaction. Potential complications, including cataract development, retinopathy, and tumor formation, were investigated. Multivariate analyses were performed to assess the prognostic variables.

RESULTS

Improvement or resolution was 89% for soft-tissue findings; 70% for proptosis; 85% for extraocular muscle dysfunction; 96% for corneal abnormalities; and 67% for sight loss. The response to RT may take >6 months to stabilize. Factors predictive of response varied in the individual SPECS categories but included the initial SPECS score, pretreatment thyroid status, female gender, a 20-Gy RT dose, and a history of hypertension. Nonpredictive factors included a history of tobacco use, diabetes mellitus, steroids, and prior cataracts. Only 16% required surgical intervention to preserve their vision or restore binocular vision. Twenty-two patients (12%) developed cataracts after irradiation (median 11 years). No patient developed a tumor within the RT field during the follow-up period (range 1-29 years). Ninety-eight percent of patients were pleased with their results, and 2% believed their symptoms progressed despite RT.

CONCLUSIONS

Retrobulbar irradiation (20 Gy) is safe and effective treatment for progressive Graves' ophthalmopathy, with a 96% overall response rate, 98% patient satisfaction rate, and no irreparable long-term sequelae, with follow-up extending 29 years. The most common late effect observed was cataract development, which occurred more frequently in older patients and was reversible with extraction. Elective surgical intervention after RT should be withheld until patients have demonstrated a plateau in response.

Late retinal complications of radiation therapy for nasal and paranasal malignancies: relationship between irradiated-dose area and severity

PURPOSE

Radiation-induced cataract, once a notorious ocular complication of radiation therapy, is no longer considered a severe complication, because visual acuity can be restored by surgical treatment without significant complications. Late retinal complications of retinopathy and glaucoma, for which there is no effective method of treatment, have become serious complications of radiotherapy of the head and neck. We retrospectively investigated the risk of late retinal complications of radiotherapy for nasal and paranasal malignancies according to the radiation dose and area of the retina irradiated.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Between October 1982 and May 1996, 43 eyes of 25 patients were exposed to fractionated external-beam irradiation for treatment of advanced nasal and paranasal cancer. None of the patients had tumor invasion into the eyes. The patients were followed ophthalmologically for a minimum of 2 years (range 2.0-11, mean 4.5, median 3.3). The radiation dose and area of the retina irradiated were estimated from the dose distribution figures calculated using the portal films and CT scan.

RESULTS

Major late adverse effects of radiotherapy were observed in the retina in 9 of 43 eyes (in 8/25 patients). Radiation retinopathy was observed in 7 eyes, and the cumulative incidence was 25%. The median interval before the onset of symptoms attributable to retinopathy was 32 months (range 16-60). Neovascular glaucoma developed in 3 of the 43 eyes, with a cumulative incidence of 7%. The median period to the onset of symptoms attributable to glaucoma was 22 months (range 16-26). Obstruction of the central retinal artery was observed in 1 eye. The irradiation doses to the retinas that developed late complications ranged between 54-75 Gy (mean 61, median 61). No patients who received less than 50 Gy developed retinal complications. The retina in 21 eyes was exposed to a dose of 50 Gy or more. In 13 of the 21 eyes, 60% or more of the retina was irradiated, and 8 of the eyes (62%) in this group (> or = 50 Gy, > or = 60%) developed severe retinal complications, whereas such complications only developed in 1 of the 8 eyes (13%) in the other group (> or = 50 Gy, > or = 60%). The results suggest that the radiation dose and area irradiated are the most important factors in the development of severe complications.

CONCLUSION

Radiation-induced retinopathy and glaucoma are more serious late complications than cataracts, which are easily treated with surgery. We investigated the risk of late retinal complications of radiotherapy, and our findings suggested that the radiation dose and area irradiated are the most important factors in the development of severe complications. We recommend that the radiation dose and area of the retina irradiated be minimized in patients at risk of eye complications, and the patients should be closely followed by periodic ophthalmologic testing after treatment.

Radiotherapy in the management of orbital lymphoma

PURPOSE

This retrospective study reviews the treatment technique, disease outcome, and complications of radiotherapy used in the management of lymphoma involving the orbits.

PATIENTS & METHODS

Thirty-eight patients were treated between May 1969 and January 1995, with a median follow-up of 8.3 years. All patients had biopsy-proven orbital lymphoma. Twenty patients who had limited disease were treated with curative intent, and 18 patients who had known systemic disease were treated with palliative intent. Of the 20 patients treated with curative intent, 14 had low-grade and 6 had intermediate- or high-grade disease. None received chemotherapy. Most patients received treatment with 250 kVP or 60Co radiation, using either an en face anterior field or wedged anterior and lateral fields. Median treatment dose was 25 Gy. Lens shielding was performed if possible. For patients treated for cure, cause-specific survival and freedom from distant relapse were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Control of disease in the orbit was achieved in all but 1 patient, who developed an out-of-field recurrence after irradiation of a lacrimal tumor and was salvaged with further radiotherapy. In the patients treated curatively, the 5-year rate of actuarial freedom from distant relapse was 61% for those with low-grade and 33% for those with intermediate/high-grade disease (p = 0.08). Cause-specific survival at 5 years was 89% for patients with low-grade and 33% for those with intermediate/high-grade disease (p = 0.005). Two patients with low-grade disease had contralateral orbital failures; both were salvaged with further irradiation. Acute toxicity was minimal. Cataracts developed in 7 of 21 patients treated without lens shielding and 0 of 17 patients treated with lens shielding. No patient developed significant late lacrimal toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Radiotherapy is a safe and effective local treatment in the management of orbital lymphoma.

An analysis of the incidence and risk factors of developing severe keratopathy in eyes after megavoltage external beam irradiation

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and risk factors of developing severe keratopathy in eyes exposed to megavoltage external beam irradiation.

DESIGN

Retrospective noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

The authors evaluated 88 eyes of 88 consecutive patients who had received irradiation of an entire orbit during radiation therapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Mean follow-up was 40 months (range, 24-106 months).

INTERVENTION

Slit-lamp biomicroscopic findings of the cornea after irradiation were categorized into four grades in accordance with a standard protocol. Grade 3 or above changes were defined as severe radiation keratopathy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The incidence of severe radiation keratopathy was evaluated along with patient's age, radiation dose, lacrimal shielding, and tumor involvement of the trigeminal nerve.

RESULTS

Severe radiation keratopathy developed in 32 patients. Mean latency was 15 months (range, 4-36 months). Its incidence increased from 0% after doses less than 59 Gy to 100% after doses greater than 70 Gy. Between 59 Gy and 69 Gy, the adverse factor was omission of lacrimal shield during radiation therapy (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Radiation dose to the cornea is the most important factor in determining the outcome of radiation keratopathy. When the threshold dose is reached, visual prognosis is grave despite protection of the lacrimal gland. Clinical trials on newer strategies to treat ocular surfaces exposed to heavy irradiation are necessary.

Age-related macular degeneration: a review of experimental treatments

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible visual loss in the USA. Laser photocoagulation of choroidal neovascular membranes (CNVMs) in exudative AMD is currently the only well-studied and widely accepted treatment modality. It is beneficial for only a small minority of patients who show well-demarcated "classic" CNVMs, and it destroys normal retinal tissue, creates a scotoma, and is associated with an unacceptably high CNVM persistence and recurrence rate. Consequently, investigators have attempted to develop new modalities for treatment of CNVMs. These treatment modalities can be grouped into four major categories: photodynamic therapy; pharmacologic inhibition of CNVM formation with antiangiogenic agents; surgical intervention, including excision of subfoveal CNVMs; and radiation therapy. All of these experimental treatment modalities are directed toward destroyiing CNVMs, the end result of the exudative process, and all have limitations. The ideal treatment of the future must be based on the pathogenesis of the disease at a stage well before CNVMs develop. Investigations in nonexudative AMD are currently focusing on several major areas. Epidemiologic factors, such as genetics, sunlight, and nutrition, are being evaluated in several large studies, including the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, with the possibility of ultimately limiting the risk of AMD through behavior modification. Laser treatment of drusen is being evaluated as a means of limiting the risk of CNVM formation, although mixed results have been reported in the small number of studies to date. Choroidal perfusion abnormalities have been described in AMD, and some investigators postulate that altering blood flow may limit the risk of CNVM formation. No perfusion-treatment trials have been completed to date.