Intravenous and intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma: what have we learned?

Causes of death and survival analysis for patients with retinoblastoma in Jordan

Purpose

To analyze causes and prognostic factors for death among Retinoblastoma (Rb) patients treated at a single specialized tertiary cancer center in Jordan.

Methods

We reviewed the mortality causes for all Rb patients who have been treated at the King Hussein Cancer Center between 2003 and 2019 and were followed for at least 3 years after diagnosis. The main outcome measures included demographics, laterality, tumor stage, treatment modalities, metastasis, survival, and causes of death.

Results

Twenty-four (5%) of the 478 patients died from retinoblastoma and 5-year survival was 94%. The mean age at diagnosis was 15 months (median, 18 months; range, 4-38 months); eight (33%) received diagnoses within the first year of life. Eleven (46%) were boys, 16 (67%) had bilateral disease, and 3 (13%) had a positive family history. The stage for the worst eye was C for 1 (4%) patient, D in 6 (25%) patients, and E (T3) in 15 (63%) patients. Two patients had extraocular Rb at diagnosis, and four of the patients who had intraocular Rb at diagnosis refused treatment and then came back with extraocular Rb. In total, extraocular disease was encountered in six eyes (six patients). After a 120-month median follow-up period, 24 patients (5%) died of second neoplasms (n = 3) or metastases (n = 21). Significant predictive factors for metastasis and death included advanced IIRC tumor stage (p < 0.0001), the presence of high-risk pathological features in the enucleated eyes (p = 0.013), parental refusal of the recommended primary treatment plan (p < 0.0001), and extraocular extension (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The 5-year survival rates of Rb patients in Jordan are as high as those in high-income countries. However, 5% are still dying from metastatic disease, prompting the need for awareness campaigns to educate the public about the high cure rates and to prevent treatment abandonment.

Efficacy and adverse reactions of intra-arterial chemotherapy in patients with bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This meta-analysis investigated the efficacies of intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) plus intravesical chemotherapy (IVC) versus IVC alone in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), and preoperative IAC versus preoperative intravenous chemotherapy (IV) in patients with bladder cancer. We also assessed the adverse reactions (ARs) of IAC. We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for English articles published before April 2021. The qualities of cohort studies and randomized controlled trials were analyzed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and Cochrane risk-of-bias tool, respectively. Effect outcomes were computed by random-effects and fixed-effects models. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata 16.0 and RevMan v5.3.0. A total of seven articles were included. The analysis revealed that IAC plus IVC significantly prolonged recurrence-free survival (RFS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.40-0.76, I² = 0%) and progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.37-0.97, I² = 0%) compared with IVC alone in NMIBC patients after transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT), but had no effect on overall survival (OS), tumor recurrence interval, or tumor-specific death rate. Preoperative IAC had no significant OS benefit compared with preoperative IV in bladder cancer patients. Regarding ARs, patients treated with IAC were significantly more likely to develop grade 1-2 ARs, including nausea/vomiting (odds ratio [OR] = 26.38, 95% CI = 1.88-370.79, I² = 78%), neutropenia (OR = 10.15, 95% CI = 3.01-34.24, I² = 0%), hypoleukemia (OR = 5.49, 95% CI = 1.38-21.82, I² = 26%), and increased alanine aminotransferase (OR = 12.28, 95% CI = 2.24-67.43, I² = 0%), but there was no significant difference between grade 1-2 ARs and grade 3-4 ARs in terms of increased creatinine in patients treated with IAC. Therefore, administration of IAC plus IVC after TURBT improved RFS and PFS compared with IAC alone in patients with NMIBC. IAC was associated with mild ARs and was well tolerated by most patients.

Anemia and Bone Marrow Suppression After Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy in Children With Retinoblastoma: A Retrospective Analysis

Background

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a common ocular malignant tumor in children. Intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) has been widely used in children with Rb and has achieved an ideal therapeutic effect. However, IAC has side effects, including anemia and bone marrow suppression, for which explicit evidence on the risk factors is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the covariates that may affect the occurrence of anemia and bone marrow suppression in children with Rb after IAC.

Methods

Children with Rb admitted between May 2019 and January 2021 were included into the study. The differences in the number of children with anemia and bone marrow suppression before and after IAC according to different covariates were recorded. All potential impact factors were included into the univariate and multivariate regression models to identify the related covariates of post-IAC anemia and bone marrow suppression.

Results

Data of 282 children with Rb were retrospectively collected. After IAC, children with Rb had increased severities of anemia (p <0.0001, chi-square test) and bone marrow suppression (p = 0.001, chi-square test). Moreover, the number of children with Rb who had an increased cross-level change in the severity of anemia and degree of bone marrow suppression was 80 (41.24%) and 64 (32.49%), respectively. The univariate regression analysis showed that numerous factors (such as pre-IAC intravenous chemotherapy, results of pre-IAC routine blood tests, and some serological indicators for liver and kidney function) affected the anemia severity and degree of bone marrow suppression in children with Rb after IAC. Additionally, the predictive model of the multivariate regression could predict anemia and bone marrow suppression.

Conclusion

Children with Rb may have an increased risk of anemia and bone marrow suppression after IAC, but this is temporary and can be influenced by several factors. Therefore, IAC should be maintained as the standard of care. We generated predictive equations for predicting anemia severity and degree of bone marrow suppression, which can guide the prediction and timely control of anemia and bone marrow suppression after IAC.

Analysis of Cause-Specific Mortality in Patients with Retinoblastoma

Background. Retinoblastoma (RB) is a rare pediatric tumor with a relatively favorable prognosis. However, RB is associated with cause-specific mortality, some of that should be of great importance to clinicians. In this study, we summarize the characteristics of cause-specific mortality from nontumor disease in patients with RB. Methods. This retrospective case series study identified and analyzed cause-specific mortality in patients with RB. The information of cause-specific mortality of RB patients, including detailed clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment process, cause-specific mortality classification, and lag time, was assessed. Results. A total of 12 eligible patients were selected from 264 patients who died among 3780 patients diagnosed with RB. The cause-specific mortality rate was 4.5% for all patients with RB who died and 0.3% for all patients with RB. The main nontumor cause-specific mortalities were diseases of the nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems, which specifically included intracranial infection, cerebral hemorrhage, paraplegia, and respiratory failure. The longest lag time was 42 days from the last chemoradiotherapy or surgery. Conclusion. Nontumor cause-specific mortality is an essential outcome of RB. Thus, intensive care and differentiation during management need to be taken seriously.

Effect of Intravenous Chemotherapy Regimen on Globe Salvage Success Rates for Retinoblastoma Based on Disease Class-A Meta-Analysis

Simple Summary

Intravenous chemoreduction (IVCRD) has been the standard of care for treatment of retinoblastoma (RB). Since survival rates exceed 95–98%, the goals of treatment have now shifted to emphasize eye salvage and vision preservation in addition to patient survival. Consequently, there has been a shift towards combining standard IVCRD with intravitreal chemotherapy or altogether replacing IVCRD with intra-arterial chemotherapy. As more data from intravitreal chemotherapy and intra-arterial chemotherapy are being published, there are claims of improved globe salvage rates resulting in more widespread use of these newer treatment modalities. However, there are no published randomized controlled trials comparing these to IVCRD head-to-head. To evaluate the relative efficacy of these new therapies, it is critical to determine the true success rates of IVCRD regimens alone. Therefore, it is both timely and essential to determine the baseline IVCRD success rates so that an evidence-based assessment of new and emerging therapies can be determined.

Abstract

To evaluate the relative efficacy of novel retinoblastoma treatments, eye classification-specific success rates for current standard-of-care intravenous chemotherapy regimens must be known. This meta-analysis included studies if: (1) patients received intravenous chemotherapy for retinoblastoma, (2) globe salvage data was reported, (3) only intravenous chemoreduction (with/without local consolidation) was used. The outcome measure was globe salvage success without need for salvage radiotherapy, subdivided by disease classification and chemotherapy regimen. Data from 27 studies (1483 eyes) were pooled. By Reese–Ellsworth classification, globe salvage rates were 85% (95%CI:73–92%) for Group I, 78% (95%CI:70–85%) for Group II, 68% (95%CI:56–78%) for Group III, 47% (95%CI:34–60%) for Group IV, and 35% (95%CI:26–45%) for Group V (Va: 35% [95%CI:21–54%]; Vb: 42% [95%CI:29–56%]; those without sub-classification: 31% [95%CI:19–47%]). By International Classification, globe salvage rates were 93% (95%CI:80–97%) for Group A, 83% (95%CI:73–89%) for Group B, 73% (95%CI:54–86%) for Group C, 40% (95%CI:31–51%) for Group D, and 19% (95%CI:5–50%) for Group E. Standard carboplatin-etoposide-vincristine out-performed two-drug regimens (odds ratio (OR) = 1.9 (95%CI:1.3–3.0) for Groups I-IV and OR = 2.1 (95%CI:1.3–3.4) for Group V; p = 0.002 for each). For eyes with diffuse vitreous seeds (Vb), an enhanced regimen out-performed standard chemotherapy (OR = 2.4 [95%CI:1.3–4.7]; p = 0.004). In conclusion, two-drug regimens were less effective for all eyes, whereas enhanced regimens were more effective for eyes with vitreous seeds. Novel therapies can now be compared to these baseline globe salvage rates.

Feasibility of Proton Beam Therapy as a Rescue Therapy in Heavily Pre-Treated Retinoblastoma Eyes

Simple Summary

A variety of therapies are available for the treatment of retinoblastomas. Nevertheless, despite exhaustion of all therapeutic methods, refractory or recurrent courses of the disease occur. In eyes with a function worthy of preservation radiation therapy may become unavoidable. Proton beam therapy, compared to conventional photon-based radiotherapy, is a highly conformal form of radiation therapy with a high biological effectiveness with a simultaneously reduced probability of radiation-related side-effects and induction of secondary primary malignancies. The aim of our retrospective study was to evaluate the efficacy of proton beam therapy as rescue therapy in 15 heavily pretreated retinoblastoma eyes. In our retrospective series of a highly negatively selected patient population, we were able to preserve 60% of the eyes with a manageable side effect profile. A cataract, as the most common long-term complication, was evident in 44.4% of the preserved eyes. There was no in-field second tumor manifestation during follow-up, therefore the preliminary data of this study and series published by others suggest that the risk is significantly lower after proton beam therapy compared to conventional external beam radiation therapy using photons.

Abstract

Despite the increased risk of subsequent primary tumors (SPTs) external beam radiation (EBRT) may be the only therapeutic option to preserve a retinoblastoma eye. Due to their physical properties, proton beam therapy (PBT) offers the possibility to use the effectiveness of EBRT in tumor treatment and to decisively reduce the treatment-related morbidity. We report our experiences of PBT as rescue therapy in a retrospectively studied cohort of 15 advanced retinoblastoma eyes as final option for eye-preserving therapy. The average age at the initiation of PBT was 35 (14–97) months, mean follow-up was 22 (2–46) months. Prior to PBT, all eyes were treated with systemic chemotherapy and a mean number of 7.1 additional treatments. Indication for PBT was non-feasibility of intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) in 10 eyes, tumor recurrence after IAC in another 3 eyes and diffuse infiltrating retinoblastoma in 2 eyes. Six eyes (40%) were enucleated after a mean time interval of 4.8 (1–8) months. Cataract formation was the most common complication affecting 44.4% of the preserved eyes, yet 77.8% achieved a visual acuity of >20/200. Two of the 15 children treated developed metastatic disease during follow-up, resulting in a 13.3% metastasis rate. PBT is a useful treatment modality as a rescue therapy in retinoblastoma eyes with an eye-preserving rate of 60%. As patients are at lifetime risk of SPTs consistent monitoring is mandatory.

Retinoblastoma vascular perfusion and intra-arterial chemotherapy cycle requirements

IMPORTANCE

Retinoblastoma is a life- and sight-threatening malignancy.

BACKGROUND

To assess the relationship between tumour perfusion and intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) requirements to achieve retinoblastoma control.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series at the Ocular Oncology Service of Wills Eye Hospital (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania).

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-nine eyes of 55 patients.

METHODS

Review of medical and fluorescein angiography (FA) records for retinoblastoma treated with primary or secondary IAC from 2012 to 2017. Vascular supply of the main tumour was evaluated in the pre-treatment FA.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Tumour fluorescence was classified as partial <67% or complete tumour perfusion >67%. Partially vs completely perfused tumours were compared for IAC cycle requirements.

RESULTS

There were 59 eyes of 55 patients with pre-treatment FA managed with IAC. Partially perfused tumours (n = 20, 34%) required fewer IAC infusions than completely perfused tumours (n = 39, 66%) (2.5 vs 3.7 infusions, P = .02), even after adjustment for confounding factors (tumour diameter, thickness and drug scheme, adjusted P = .04). Tumour perfusion correlated with number of IAC cycles required for tumour control (r = 0.46, P < .001). For primary IAC (n = 18, 31%), tumour perfusion was not associated with number of IAC cycles (P = .63). For secondary IAC (n = 41, 69%), partially perfused tumours (n = 15, 37%) required fewer IAC infusions than completely perfused tumours (n = 26, 63%) (2.1 vs 3.7 infusions, P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

FA demonstrating partial retinoblastoma tumour perfusion is associated with fewer IAC cycle requirements for secondary but not primary IAC. FA might be useful in judging anticipated treatment cycles of retinoblastoma managed with primary or secondary IAC.

Episcleral brachytherapy for retinoblastoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To report visual outcomes, survival outcomes and complications following episcleral brachytherapy (EB) for retinoblastoma.

METHODS

Retrospective review of retinoblastoma cases treated with EB in a single institution. Survival outcomes were analysed using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

Eleven tumours of 11 eyes were treated with either iodine-125 or ruthenium-106 EB with a mean apical dose of 44 Gy. The tumours were classified as group B in 5 (46%), C in 3 (27%) or D in 3 (27%) eyes, respectively. Mean follow-up time was 75.4 months. EB served as primary treatment in 3 eyes (27%) and secondary treatment in 8 eyes (73%). Final visual acuity was better than 20/200 in 70% of cases. Globe preservation was achieved in 9 (82%) eyes. Local recurrence occurred in 18% of cases at a mean onset of 17.4 months after EB. Two group D tumours that recurred after secondary EB underwent enucleation. Mean onset of radiation retinopathy was 17.4 months following EB. No metastatic or fatal events were recorded. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed recurrence-free survival and ocular survival of 80% and overall survival of 100% at 5 years after EB.

CONCLUSION

EB is an effective primary or secondary treatment modality for selected retinoblastoma eyes (groups B and C). Advanced group D tumours may represent a risk factor for local recurrence. Visually significant complications such as radiation retinopathy should be anticipated.

Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Background and purpose

Intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma has been adopted as a first-line treatment option by numerous tertiary centers. The effect of intra-arterial chemotherapy on future rates of metastatic disease as well as on globe salvage in advanced eyes remains relatively unknown.

Methods

A search of PubMED, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science electronic databases was conducted from inception until January 2019 for studies with a minimum of 10 patients reporting outcomes and complications following intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma.

Results

A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria for analysis, comprising 873 patients and 1467 eyes. Only one study was comparative; there was substantial heterogeneity in reported outcomes and several overlapping patient cohorts that were published. Across all studies, 174 of 1467 eyes were enucleated (11.8%). Metastatic disease occurred in 8 of 513 patients (1.6%). Globe salvage was achieved in 318 of 906 (35.6%) cases of advanced retinoblastoma. The most common ocular complication was retinal detachment, occurring in 23% of eyes, and the most common systemic complications were transient fever and nausea/vomiting.

Conclusions

There is a paucity of higher-level evidence with adequate follow-up surrounding the long-term safety of intra-arterial chemotherapy and effect on metastasis in retinoblastoma. Studies to date have been limited by short-term follow-up. Longitudinal prospective studies could provide greater insight into the ability of intra-arterial chemotherapy to reduce the risk of retinoblastoma metastasis.

Outcomes of pediatric retinoblastoma treated with ICEV regimen: A single-center study

Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in children. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy and toxicity of combination ifosfamide, carboplatin, etoposide, and vincristine (ICEV) in advanced-stage pediatric retinoblastoma [International Classification of Retinoblastoma (ICRB) group D or E], and in ICRB group C in the second eye in simultaneously treated bilateral retinoblastoma. The medical records of retinoblastoma patients treated with concurrent ICEV regimen and focal therapy were retrospectively reviewed. The ICEV treatment protocol was, as follows: ifosfamide 1800 mg/m² on Days 1-3; MESNA 600 mg/m² on Days 1-3; carboplatin 560 mg/m² on Day 1; etoposide 150 mg/m² on Days 1-3; and vincristine 1.5 mg/m² on Day 1. Of 16 retinoblastoma patients, 13 had bilateral disease. Seven first eyes in bilateral disease that were enucleated prior to ICEV therapy were excluded. Twenty-two eyes were finally included (six group C, six group D, and ten group E). Median follow-up was 3.4 years, and the median number of ICEV courses was 7. Fifteen globes could be salvaged, 12 responded to ICEV (six group C, five group D, and one group E), and three unresponsive eyes could be salvaged with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Enucleation-free and relapse-free survival was 68.2 and 54.5%, respectively. The results of this study suggest ICEV as an alternative therapeutic approach for globe salvage in pediatric retinoblastoma, especially in ICRB groups C and D with manageable acute toxicity. Further study in larger cohort is needed to confirm the effectiveness of treatment.

Indications for the Performance of Intracranial Endovascular Neurointerventional Procedures: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Intracranial endovascular interventions provide effective and minimally invasive treatment of a broad spectrum of diseases. This area of expertise has continued to gain both wider application and greater depth as new and better techniques are developed and as landmark clinical studies are performed to guide their use. Some of the greatest advances since the last American Heart Association scientific statement on this topic have been made in the treatment of ischemic stroke from large intracranial vessel occlusion, with more effective devices and large randomized clinical trials showing striking therapeutic benefit. The treatment of cerebral aneurysms has also seen substantial evolution, increasing the number of aneurysms that can be treated successfully with minimally invasive therapy. Endovascular therapies for such other diseases as arteriovenous malformations, dural arteriovenous fistulas, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, venous thrombosis, and neoplasms continue to improve. The purpose of the present document is to review current information on the efficacy and safety of procedures used for intracranial endovascular interventional treatment of cerebrovascular diseases and to summarize key aspects of best practice.

Inhibitory effect of carboplatin in combination with bevacizumab on human retinoblastoma in an in vitro and in vivo model

Retinoblastoma is the most common type of malignant intraocular tumor in children, and angiogenesis is required for tumor growth and expansion. The present study investigated whether use of the vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor antibody bevacizumab can increase the inhibitory effect of carboplatin on human retinoblastoma Y79 cells. This was investigated using in vitro and in vivo models. Cell proliferation was assayed using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, which tested different concentrations of carboplatin in combination with bevacizumab. Cell apoptosis and cell cycle were analyzed using flow cytometry. Protein levels of related signaling pathway molecules were determined by western blotting. The present study used an intravitreal retinoblastoma mouse model for the in vivo study (n=40). Tumors were analyzed histologically. The present study revealed that combining bevacizumab and carboplatin in an in vitro culture of Y79 cells led to a higher inhibition of cellular proliferation than carboplatin alone (P<0.05). The drug combination caused increased apoptosis, and a greater inhibition of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathways. This combination also effectively inhibited tumor growth in vivo (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that a combination of carboplatin and bevacizumab results in a greater antitumor effect in advanced human retinoblastoma in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways.

Clinical outcome and regression patterns of retinoblastoma treated with systemic chemoreduction and focal therapy: A prospective study

Purpose:

To prospectively study the clinical outcome and regression patterns of early retinoblastoma (Groups A and B) after systemic chemotherapy and focal consolidation in Indian children.

Materials and Methods:

Group A eyes were treated with focal therapy (transpupillary thermotherapy/cryotherapy) and Group B with systemic chemoreduction and focal therapy. Outcome measures were efficacy and safety of treatment, risk factors for treatment failure, regression patterns, and factors predictive of regression patterns.

Results:

Of 119 eyes (216 tumors), 14 (11.8%) were Group A and 105 (88.2%) were Group B eyes. The mean follow-up was 22.6 months. Tumor control was achieved in 111/119 eyes (93.3% overall, 100% Group A, 92.4% Group B). Eight Group B eyes (6.7%) had treatment failure. No serious systemic side-effects were noted. Risk factors for failure included larger tumors (P = 0.001) and proximity to posterior pole (P = 0.014). Regression patterns were Type 4 (50.2%), Type 3 (31.7%), Type 1 (11.1%), and Type 2 (7%). Factors predictive of Type 4 regression were smaller tumors, anterior location, younger age; Type 3 regression was associated with larger tumors, macular location, and older age.

Conclusions:

Systemic chemoreduction and focal therapy provided effective tumor control in Indian children. Factors predictive of regression patterns included age, tumor size and its location, and the modality of treatment.

Retinoblastoma: Update on Current Management

Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer in children, where in less than a century of dire mortality there has been a cure in industrialized countries. Unfortunately, mortality remains high in emerging countries. The evolution of treatment makes it possible to go further by preserving the eyeball but this must not be done at the cost of the reappearance of metastases. Herein we outline the evolution of treatment from the beginning of the 20th century until the last recent evolutions, trying to imagine what could be the future treatments. In this pathology, the ophthalmologist is a doctor who must cure his patient and enucleation is considered a failure. This situation should not lead to shizophrenic situations where to keep an eye one would take risks with the life of the child. New international classifications, international prospective multicentric studies, and the search for blood biomarkers that can predict the risk of micrometastases could allow for better stratification of patients.

Anesthesia for Ophthalmic Artery Chemosurgery

Pediatric anesthesiologists should be aware of severe cardiopulmonary events that can occur during intraarterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma.

Intravitreal Lower-Dose (20 µg) Melphalan for Persistent or Recurrent Retinoblastoma Vitreous Seeds

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The major cause of failure in the management of retinoblastoma is the persistence/recurrence of vitreous seeds (VS). This study reports the efficacy and complications of standard lower-dose (20 µg) intravitreal melphalan for VS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients with active VS treated with lower-dose intravitreal melphalan (20 µg/0.1 mL) on a monthly basis until complete VS regression was achieved.

RESULTS

A total of 14 injections were delivered to seven eyes of seven patients (range: 1-4; median: 2). At a median follow-up of 20 months (range: 12-32 months), complete regression of VS was achieved in all cases (100%), and globe salvage was achieved in six cases (86%). One eye required enucleation for solid tumor recurrence. Side effects of retinal pigment epithelium mottling at the site of injection was noted in two eyes (29%).

CONCLUSION

The 2-year results of this study suggest that standard lower-dose (20 µg) intravitreal melphalan is safe and highly effective for the management of viable VS from retinoblastoma.

Lesions Simulating Retinoblastoma at a Tertiary Care Center

Purpose:

To determine the types and frequency of ocular conditions simulating retinoblastoma (pseudo-retinoblastoma) at Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran.

Methods:

We reviewed data of patients who were referred with a diagnosis of retinoblastoma to Farabi Eye Hospital oncology clinic, from January 2009 to July 2013. Examination under general anesthesia was performed for all patients. Other investigations, such as ultrasonography, were performed as required.

Results:

Of a total of 331 patients (aged 1-60 months), 138 (42%) were found to be suffering from a benign disorder. Among these pseudo-retinoblastoma cases, Coats’ disease was the most prevalent codition (n = 36, 26%); persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV) and familial exudative vitreo-retinopathy (FEVR) were the next two common pseudo-retinoblastoma cases in our series.

Conclusion:

The rate of misdiagnosis upon referral to our center was close to 40%. The most common pseudo-retinoblastomas entities include Coats’ disease, PHPV and FEVR. An accurate diagnosis is essential for management of pseudo-retinoblastoma cases.

STAT3 inhibition suppresses proliferation of retinoblastoma through down-regulation of positive feedback loop of STAT3/miR-17-92 clusters

Retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular malignant tumor in children, is characterized by the loss of both functional alleles of RB1 gene, which however alone cannot maintain malignant characteristics of retinoblastoma cells. Nevertheless, the investigation of other molecular aberrations such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and miRNAs is still lacking. In this study, we demonstrate that STAT3 is activated in retinoblastoma cells, Ki67-positive areas of in vivo orthotopic tumors in BALB/c nude mice, and human retinoblastoma tissues of the advanced stage. Furthermore, target genes of STAT3 including BCL2, BCL2L1, BIRC5, and MMP9 are up-regulated in retinoblastoma cells compared to other retinal constituent cells. Interestingly, STAT3 inhibition by targeted siRNA suppresses the proliferation of retinoblastoma cells and the formation of in vivo orthotopic tumors. In line with these results, STAT3 siRNA effectively induces down-regulation of target genes of STAT3. In addition, miRNA microarray analysis and further real-time PCR experiments with STAT3 siRNA treatment show that STAT3 activation is related to the up-regulation of miR-17-92 clusters in retinoblastoma cells via positive feedback loop between them. In conclusion, we suggest that STAT3 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic approach in retinoblastoma through the suppression of tumor proliferation.

Diffuse anterior retinoblastoma: current concepts

Diffuse anterior retinoblastoma is a rare variant of retinoblastoma seeding in the area of the vitreous base and anterior chamber. Patients with diffuse anterior retinoblastoma are older than those with the classical types, with the mean age being 6.1 years. The original cells of diffuse anterior retinoblastoma are supposed to be cone precursor. Patients most commonly present with pseudouveitis, pseudohypopyon, and increased intraocular pressure. The retina under fundus examination is likely to be normal, and the clinical features mimic the inflammation progress, which can often lead to misdiagnosis. The published diffuse anterior retinoblastoma cases were diagnosed after fine-needle aspiration biopsy running the potential risk of inducing metastasis. The most common treatment for diffuse anterior retinoblastoma is enucleation followed by systematic chemotherapy according to the patient’s presentation and clinical course. This review summarizes the recent advances in etiology (including tumorigenesis and cell origin), pathology, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and new treatment. The challenges of early diagnosis and prospects are also discussed.

Risk definition and management strategies in retinoblastoma: current perspectives

This manuscript focuses on high-risk factors of metastatic disease in retinoblastoma and evaluation of the current treatments of retinoblastoma. Presence of histopathologic high-risk factors is associated with a higher risk of local recurrence and systemic metastasis. Currently, globe-sparing therapies, including systemic chemotherapy, intra-arterial chemoreduction, intravitreal chemotherapy, focal consolidation, and combination therapies, are being used and investigated actively. Major advances are being made in the diagnosis and management of retinoblastoma that will lead to improved morbidity and mortality rates in patients with retinoblastoma. By saving the globes, fronting with some high-risk factors for metastasis would be inevitable. International multi-institutional prospective studies could resolve current uncertainties regarding the main tumor treatment regimens for each patient and indications for chemoprophylaxis for high-risk-factor-bearing retinoblastoma cases.

Establishment of an Orthotopic Xenograft Mice Model of Retinoblastoma Suitable for Preclinical Testing

Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer that occurs during childhood. The goal of current and future therapeutic strategies is to conserve the eye and visual function without using external beam radiotherapy, which is known to increase the risk of secondary cancers in genetically predisposed patients. Multimodality therapy (usually intravenous but also intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapy, transpupillary thermotherapy, cryotherapy, or brachytherapy) has recently improved the eye salvage rate in retinoblastoma and has led to a decreased need for external beam radiotherapy. However, the treatment of advanced intraocular retinoblastoma remains a real challenge, especially in cases of vitreous and subretinal seeding. There is a need for alternative and less toxic therapies as well as for better ways to administer the drugs. Animal models are an integral part of preclinical research in the field of oncology. This paper describes the different xenograft rodent models published in the literature so far. We will also describe a new orthotopic xenografted retinoblastoma model in immunodeficient mice, which is suitable for preclinical assays. The xenograft model was established from tumor tissue obtained directly from surgical samples and closely mimics human retinoblastoma.

[Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma: Experience in 37 eyes]

OBJECTIVE

To report the results of the multidisciplinary management of patients with retinoblastoma, including survival, enucleation rate, and systemic chemoreduction success.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 27 patients (37 eyes) diagnosed with retinoblastoma, and treated by a multidisciplinary team in San Juan de Dios Hospital. Demographic information, clinical characterization, survival, local and systemic treatments were included in the analysis. Patients treated with intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) were also reviewed.

RESULTS

The study included14 male patients (52%). The median of age at presentation was 8 months (0.16-90). The median follow-up time was 33 ± 21 months. The diagnosis was made in 10 (37%) cases after 15 months old, with a median of 35 months (24-90). 17 (63%) patients had unilateral retinoblastoma, and 10 (37%) bilateral retinoblastoma. Leukocoria, isolated or associated with other signs, was the most frequent reason for referral (63%). Global enucleation rate was 57% (n=21), being the primary treatment in 15 (55%) patients. Enucleation rate in unilateral retinoblastoma was 76.5%, and for bilateral retinoblastoma, it was 60% for one eye and 10% for both. Systemic chemotherapy was prescribed in 17 (63%) patients, with a mean number of cycles of 5.3 ± 2.1. The overall success of chemoreduction and focal therapy in order to avoid external radiotherapy and/or enucleation was 68%. Three patients were treated with IAC as a salvage therapy, controlling the tumor in 2 patients at 6 months of follow-up. These are the first cases reported in Chile. Survival rate was 100%.

CONCLUSION

Multidisciplinary management of retinoblastoma led to a survival rate and morbidity comparable with international reports.

Selective ophthalmic arterial injection of melphalan for intraocular retinoblastoma: a 4-year review

PURPOSE

To describe tumor response and complications after selective ophthalmic arterial injection (SOAI) of melphalan for treatment of intraocular retinoblastoma.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 17 eyes (12 patients) treated with SOAI of melphalan from January 2010 through December 2013 at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.

RESULTS

SOAI was successfully performed in 49 of 54 attempts. Six eyes underwent SOAI as the primary treatment and 11 eyes had previously been treated with other treatment modalities. Subsequent to SOAI, tumor regression was observed in 12 of 17 eyes, and vitreous seeding with complete or partial regression in ten of 15 eyes. Globe salvage was achieved in ten of 17 eyes, with three of four in group B and group C eyes, and seven of 13 in group D and group E eyes. Pancytopenia accompanied by neutropenic fever was observed in one case. Twelve eyes had local side effects, including lid edema (two eyes), third cranial nerve palsy (two eyes), sixth cranial nerve palsy (one eye), chorioretinal atrophy (six eyes), retinal arterial occlusion (three eyes), retinal detachment (one eye), and vitreous hemorrhage (seven eyes). Three cases with high-risk features, according to the histopathologic examination, had metastatic disease, and two of them died.

CONCLUSIONS

SOAI of melphalan is an effective treatment for intraocular retinoblastoma, achieving high globe salvage in cases of advanced disease, but can be associated with significant ocular complications. Repetitive SOAI with delayed enucleation could increase the risk of metastasis when used in high-risk cases. Therefore, clinicians should consider the benefits and potential risks and use this new technique with caution.

Retinoblastoma. Fifty years of progress. The LXXI Edward Jackson Memorial Lecture

PURPOSE

To review the progress made in understanding the genetic basis, molecular pathology, and treatment of retinoblastoma since the previous Jackson lecture on the topic was published 50 years ago.

DESIGN

Perspective based on personal experience and the literature.

METHODS

The literature regarding retinoblastoma was reviewed since 1963. Advances in understanding the biology and treatment of retinoblastoma provided context through the author's clinical, pathologic, and research experiences.

RESULTS

Retinoblastoma was first identified in the 1500s and defined as a unique clinicopathologic entity in 1809. Until the mid-1900s, knowledge advanced sporadically, with technological developments of ophthalmoscopy and light microscopy, and with the introduction of surgical enucleation, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. During the last 50 years, research and treatment have progressed at an unprecedented rate owing to innovations in molecular biology and the development of targeted therapies. During this time period, the retinoblastoma gene was discovered; techniques for genetic testing for retinoblastoma were developed; and plaque brachytherapy, chemoreduction, intra-arterial chemotherapy, and intraocular injections of chemotherapeutic agents were successfully introduced.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly all patients with retinoblastoma in developed countries can now be cured of their primary cancer--a remarkable achievement for a childhood cancer that once was uniformly fatal. Much of this success is owed to deciphering the role of the Rb gene, and the benefits of targeted therapies, such as chemoreduction with consolidation as well as intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapies. Going forward, the main challenge will be ensuring that access to care is available for all children, particularly those in developing countries.

Update on intra-arterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma

The tools for managing retinoblastoma have been increasing in the past decade. While globe-salvage still relies heavily on intravenous chemotherapy, tumors in advanced stage that failed chemotherapy are now referred for intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) to avoid enucleation. However, IAC still has many obstacles to overcome. We present an update on the indications, complications, limitations, success, and technical aspects of IAC. Given its safety and high efficacy, it is expected that IAC will replace conventional strategies and will become a first-line option even for tumors that are amenable for other strategies.

Targeted retinoblastoma management: when to use intravenous, intra-arterial, periocular, and intravitreal chemotherapy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The management of retinoblastoma is complex and involves strategically chosen methods of enucleation, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, laser photocoagulation, thermotherapy, and cryotherapy. Chemotherapy has become the most common eye-sparing modality. There are four routes of delivery of chemotherapy for retinoblastoma, including intravenous, intra-arterial, periocular, and intravitreal techniques. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current rationale for each method and the anticipated outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

The diagnosis of retinoblastoma should be clinically established prior to embarking on a chemotherapy protocol. There are over 25 conditions that can closely simulate retinoblastoma in a young child. In addition, enucleation is an acceptable method for management, particularly with advanced retinoblastoma. Intravenous chemotherapy is generally used for germline mutation (bilateral, familial) retinoblastoma with excellent tumor control for groups A, B, and C and intermediate control for group D eyes. Intra-arterial chemotherapy is used as primary therapy in selected cases for nongermline mutation (unilateral) retinoblastoma with excellent control, and also used as secondary therapy for recurrent solid retinoblastoma, subretinal seeds, and vitreous seeds. Periocular chemotherapy is employed to boost local chemotherapy dose in advanced bilateral groups D and E eyes or for localized recurrences. Intravitreal chemotherapy is used for recurrent vitreous seeds from retinoblastoma. Patients at high risk for metastases should receive intravenous chemotherapy.

SUMMARY

Chemotherapy is effective for retinoblastoma and the targeted treatment route depends on the clinical features and anticipated outcomes.

Adjunctive techniques for optimization of ocular hemodynamics in children undergoing ophthalmic artery infusion chemotherapy

PURPOSE

To develop a reproducible technique for selective ophthalmic artery infusion chemotherapy (SOAIC) that is technically efficacious in children with unfavorable patterns of ophthalmic artery (OA) flow.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Initially, all SOAIC was performed with intention to treat using a standard selective OA (microcatheter) infusion technique (sSOAIC). Temporary balloon occlusion (TBO) of the external carotid artery (ECA), a balloon-assisted SOAIC (bSOAIC) technique, was performed only if OA angiography did not show robust and sustained anterograde OA flow. In our more recent experience, all SOAIC was performed with intention to treat by bSOAIC. Verapamil infusion into the OA and internal carotid artery was performed in selected cases. Technical success was defined as delivery of chemotherapeutic agent(s) into the OA with robust and sustained anterograde perfusion. sSOAIC was considered to have failed if converted to bSOAIC.

RESULTS

19 eyes were treated in 17 patients (age 5 months to 16 years) between December 2008 and May 2013. Eighty-three procedures were undertaken and the OA was successfully catheterized in all. Technical success was achieved in 35/41 (85%) sSOAIC cases and 42/42 (100%) bSOAIC cases. TBO of the ECA augmented anterograde OA flow and converted all cases of retrograde OA flow to anterograde. Verapamil further augmented anterograde ocular perfusion during SOAIC. There were no access site complications, strokes, or deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

TBO of the ECA is a safe, effective, and reproducible method for optimizing ocular hemodynamics during SOAIC regardless of baseline OA flow pattern. Verapamil infusion may further favorably modify OA flow.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01466855.

Impact of chemoreduction for conservative therapy for retinoblastoma in Argentina

BACKGROUND

Few studies were reported from developing countries regarding patient outcome and ocular survival in children with bilateral retinoblastoma treated with chemoreduction compared to external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

PROCEDURE

We undertook a retrospective study of three treatment eras: (1) (1988-1995) n = 68 when EBRT was used as primary conservative therapy; (2) (1995-2003) n = 46 when carboplatin-based systemic chemoreduction was introduced and (3) (2003-2009) (n = 83) when additional periocular chemotherapy was added for advanced tumors and pre-enucleation chemotherapy was given for those with massive buphthalmia.

RESULTS

The probability of 5-year disease-free survival was 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91-0.98%) without significant differences among the three eras. Chemoreduction reduced the use of EBRT from 84.6% to 68.7% in eras 1 and 3, respectively (P = 0.008), which was more evident in cases with less advanced disease. Chemoreduction also significantly improved the 5-year probability of preservation of eyes with advanced disease from 0.13 (95% CI 0.04-0.27) during era 1 to 0.49 (95% CI 0.34-0.62) in era 3 (P < 0.0001). Chemoreduction was not associated with changes in the probability of extraocular relapse, which was reduced after the introduction of pre-enucleation chemotherapy. Second malignancies occurred in nine cases, acute myeloid leukemia being the most fatal one. Trilateral retinoblastoma occurred in three cases and all of them had been exposed to chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Chemoreduction reduced the need for EBRT in eyes with less advanced disease and improved the preservation of eyes with advanced disease while its effects on secondary malignancies or trilateral disease remain unclear.

Survey on the management of orbital and intraocular tumors among oculofacial surgeons in the Asia-Pacific region

A web-based anonymous survey was performed to assess the common practices of oculofacial surgeons in the management of orbital and intraocular tumors in the Asia-Pacific region. The questionnaire comprised a series of questions covering controversial topics sent via email to 131 oculofacial surgeons across 14 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. A total response rate of 61.7 % was achieved from May to December 2012. The most common benign orbital tumor was cavernous hemangioma (39.6 %) and the most common malignant orbital tumor was lymphoma (85.7 %). 40 % of surgeons recommended orbital radiation, for which the most common indications were thyroid eye disease (70.0 %) and malignancy (30.0 %). The most common orbitotomy approach was lateral (79.2 %). Most surgeons (87.1 %) offered enucleation for retinoblastoma, but there was also a significant proportion that offered chemoreduction with transpupillary thermotherapy or cryotherapy (58.1 %). Fewer surgeons offered brachytherapy (16.1 %) and intra-arterial chemotherapy (6.5 %). When performing enucleation for retinoblastoma, 81.8 % of surgeons performed a primary orbital implant placement. The most preferred type of implant was silicone/acrylic (90.2, 90.2 and 87.8 % for elderly, adults and children, respectively). The majority of surgeons used donor sclera (57.5 %) or no wrapping material at all (32.5 %). Almost all surgeons (95.1 %) did not drill and peg the implant for motility. We report the results of the first survey of oculofacial surgeons in the Asia-Pacific region on the management of intraocular and orbital tumors. In comparison with previous surveys performed in the USA and the UK, we found the practice patterns of the Asia-Pacific surgeons to be comparable.

Orthotopic transplantation of retinoblastoma cells into vitreous cavity of zebrafish for screening of anticancer drugs

BACKGROUND

With high throughput screening, novel therapeutic agents can be efficiently identified. Unfortunately, researchers only resort to in vitro cell viability assays for screening of anticancer drugs for retinoblastoma, the most common intraocular cancer in the childhood. Current available animal models of retinoblastoma require more than 2 weeks for tumour formation and the investigation of the efficacy of therapeutic agents. In this study, we established a novel orthotopic transplantation model of retinoblastoma in zebrafish as an in vivo animal model for screening of anticancer drugs.

METHODS

We injected retinoblastoma cells into the vitreous cavity of zebrafish at 48 hours after fertilization. Eyeballs of zebrafish were scanned daily under the confocal laser microscope, and the tumor population was quantitatively analyzed by measuring the mean intensity of green fluorescent protein (GFP). Transplanted retinoblastoma cells were isolated to perform further analyses including Western blotting and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction to confirm that retinoblastoma cells maintained their characteristics as tumor cells even after transplantation and further isolation. To figure out the potential of this model for screening of anticancer drugs, zebrafish were cultured in Ringer's solution containing carboplatin and melphalan after the injection of retinoblastoma cells.

RESULTS

The degree of the tumor population was dependent on the number of retinoblastoma cells injected and maintained stably for at least 4 days. Transplanted retinoblastoma cells maintain their proliferative potential and characteristics as retinoblastoma cells after isolation. Interestingly, systemic application of carboplatin and melphalan demonstrated significant reduction in the tumor population, which could be quantitatively analyzed by the estimation of the mean intensity of GFP.

CONCLUSIONS

This orthotopic retinoblastoma model in zebrafish is expected to be utilized for the screening of anticancer drugs for the treatment of retinoblastoma.

Update on Ophthalmic Oncology 2012: Advances in Retinoblastoma and Uveal Melanoma

PURPOSE

The purpose of this article was to review the major advances in both translational and clinical research in 2 diseases, retinoblastoma and uveal melanoma, from November 2011 through October 2012.

DESIGN

Literature Review.

METHODS

A MEDLINE search was performed using the search terms "retinoblastoma" and "uveal melanoma." All relevant articles were reviewed, and articles with the most clinical relevance were reported.

RESULTS

In retinoblastoma, new clinical data are emerging every year regarding the safety and efficacy of intra-arterial chemotherapy as well as other even newer modalities such as intravitreal chemotherapy. Globe salvage rates for eyes without vitreous seeding approach 100% and are increasing to 80% for those with seeds with new methods of treatment. In uveal melanoma, our understanding of the genetic pathways underlying this disease is improving each day and leading to the initiation of clinical trials for adjuvant therapy and metastatic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Ocular oncology is a small but dynamic field in which our knowledge is increasing every day. Exciting data emerged in the fields of both retinoblastoma and uveal melanoma this year.

Retinoblastoma frontiers with intravenous, intra-arterial, periocular, and intravitreal chemotherapy

In this report, we explore retinoblastoma diagnostic accuracy and review chemotherapy alternatives for retinoblastoma using intravenous, intra-arterial, periocular, and intravitreal routes. A review of 2775 patients referred for management of retinoblastoma, disclosed 78% with confirmed retinoblastoma and 22% with simulating lesions, termed pseudoretinoblastomas. Children ≤2 years old showed leading pseudoretinoblastomas of persistent fetal vasculature, Coats disease, and vitreous haemorrhage, whereas those >5 years showed simulators of Coats, toxocariasis, and familial exudative vitreoretinopathy. The diagnosis of retinoblastoma should be established before planning therapeutic strategy. Chemotherapy strategy depends on tumour laterality and stage of disease. If bilateral retinoblastoma, intravenous chemotherapy (IVC) is important as first-line therapy for control of intraocular disease, prevention of metastasis, and reduction in prevalence of pinealoblastoma and long-term second malignant neoplasms. Bilateral groups D and E retinoblastoma receive additional subtenon's carboplatin boost for improved local control. If unilateral disease is present, then intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) is often considered. IAC can be salvage therapy following chemoreduction failure. Unilateral retinoblastoma of groups D and E are managed with enucleation or globe-conserving IVC and/or IAC. Intravitreal chemotherapy is cautiously reserved for recurrent vitreous seeds following other therapies. In conclusion, the strategy for retinoblastoma management with chemotherapy depends on tumour laterality and stage of disease. Bilateral retinoblastoma is most often managed with IVC and unilateral retinoblastoma with IAC, but if advanced stage, combination IVC plus IAC or enucleation.

Single-agent, minimal dose, minimal exposure intraarterial chemotherapy for retinoblastoma in a 4-month-old infant

PURPOSE

To document minimal dose and minimal exposure of chemotherapy for unilateral retinoblastoma.

METHODS

A 4-month-old infant developed leukocoria in the right eye and was found to have unilateral sporadic retinoblastoma.

RESULTS

The right eye was classified as Group D retinoblastoma, with a single large tumor, moderate subretinal seeding, and total retinal detachment. The retinoblastoma measured 20 mm in basal dimension and 13 mm in ultrasonographic thickness. Options of enucleation, intravenous chemotherapy, and intraarterial chemotherapy were offered, but the latter was chosen because of anticipated, rapid, and more complete response with intraarterial rather than intravenous chemotherapy. After using low dose (3 mg) of single-agent melphalan delivered over 30 minutes into the ostium of the ophthalmic artery of the 4-month-old infant, a complete response with Type 1 regression (complete calcification) of the mass and resolution of all subretinal fluid was found. A second similar dose was delivered to ensure remission of all seeds and tumor with stable findings. Further chemotherapy was stopped. On 6 months of follow-up, the child displayed complete tumor control with 2 cycles of lowest dose (3 mg) intraarterial melphalan. There were no complications.

CONCLUSION

In infants younger than 6 months, low dose of only 3-mg single-agent melphalan could be sufficient to control retinoblastoma with minimal exposure.

Lesions simulating retinoblastoma (pseudoretinoblastoma) in 604 cases: results based on age at presentation

PURPOSE

To determine the types and frequency of ocular conditions that simulate retinoblastoma (pseudoretinoblastoma) based on age at presentation.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Two thousand seven hundred seventy-five patients.

METHODS

Chart review.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Conditions simulating retinoblastoma.

RESULTS

Of 2775 patients referred for management of retinoblastoma, 2171 patients (78%) had confirmed retinoblastoma and 604 patients (22%) had simulating lesions (pseudoretinoblastomas). In the pseudoretinoblastoma cohort, the mean patient age at presentation was 4 years (median, 2 years). There were 27 different pseudoretinoblastoma conditions, and the 10 most common included Coats' disease (n = 244; 40%), persistent fetal vasculature (PFV; n = 158; 28%), vitreous hemorrhage (n = 27; 5%), ocular toxocariasis (n = 22; 4%), familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR; n = 18; 3%), rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (n = 18; 3%), coloboma (n = 17; 3%), astrocytic hamartoma (n = 15; 2%), combined hamartoma of retina and retinal pigment epithelium (n = 15; 2%), and endogenous endophthalmitis (n = 10; 2%). Simulating lesions differed based on age at presentation, and children younger than 1 year were most likely to have PFV (49%), Coats' disease (20%), or vitreous hemorrhage (7%); those 2 to 5 years of age were most likely to have Coats' disease (61%), toxocariasis (8%), or PFV (7%); and those older than 5 years were most likely to have Coats' disease (57%), toxocariasis (8%), or FEVR (6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The most common pseudoretinoblastomas include Coats' disease, PFV, and vitreous hemorrhage, but the spectrum varies depending on patient age.