Incidence and clinical characteristics of symptomatic choroidal metastasis from lung cancer

Acute angle-closure related with choroidal metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma: A case report and literature review

PURPOSE

Acute angle-closure is a rare manifestation of choroidal metastasis. We reported a case of choroidal metastasis from lung adenocarcinoma presenting with unilateral acute angle-closure attacks relieved with radiotherapy after failed conventional medical and laser treatments. This represented the first detailed report of treatments of secondary acute angle-closure attacks in patients with choroidal metastasis.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 69-year-old female without ocular history was diagnosed with metastatic lung adenocarcinoma. One month later, she complained of blurred vision and pain in the right eye that lasted 2 days. IOP was 58 mmHg and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was counting finger in the right eye. Slit-lamp examination revealed corneal edema with ciliary congestion, extremely shallow anterior chamber both centrally and peripherally, mid-dilated pupil and moderate cataract in the right eye. While the left eye was normal. B-scan ultrasound and orbital computed tomography showed an appositional choroidal detachment with an underlying choroidal thickening suggesting choroidal metastasis in the right eye. There was limited effect of medical and laser therapy. IOP was 9 mmHg in the right eye after two months of palliative external beam radiotherapy in the right orbit. BCVA was hand motion in the right eye. Slit lamp examination revealed clear cornea, deep anterior chamber in the right eye. Regression of choroidal detachment and choroidal metastasis in the right eye were observed in B-scan ultrasound.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrated that patient with secondary acute angle-closure attacks from large bullous choroidal detachment related to choroidal metastasis could only be successfully treated with radiotherapy as both medical and laser therapy might not be capable of breaking angle-closure attacks.

Clinical Outcomes of Radiation Therapy for Choroidal Metastases and A Literature Review

INTRODUCTION

Radiation therapy (RT) for choroidal metastasis (CM) aims to preserve vision and achieve local control (LC), thereby maintaining quality of life. The present study reports the clinical outcomes of RT for CM and reviews the literature.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected data on 11 patients with CM; their primary tumors were breast cancer (n=3), lung cancer (n=3), leukemia (n=2), lymphoma (n=2), and gastric cancer (n=1). Four patients had bilateral CM. The median radiation dose was 39 Gy in 13 fractions (range, 20-50 Gy in 10-25 fractions). We investigated changes in visual acuity, tumor responses, morbidities, LC, and overall survival (OS). A systematic review of literature published between 1990 and 2020 was performed using the PubMed database.

RESULTS

One, 1, and 6 patients had improved, stabilized, and worse visual acuity, respectively (data missing for 3 patients). Nevertheless, eight patients considered their visual acuity to have improved or remained the same after RT. Among 15 lesions in 11 patients, complete and partial responses were observed in 2 and 6, respectively (data missing for 7 lesions in 4 patients). Three-year LC and OS rates were 100 and 32%, respectively. Grade ≥ 3 morbidities were not observed. In the literature review, the most common primary cancer was breast cancer followed by lung cancer. Improvements in or the stabilization of visual acuity was observed in 80% of patients (range, 47-100), and the median survival time was 11 months (range, 4.9-23).

CONCLUSION

RT is an efficient and safe palliative treatment for CM without severe toxicity.

Posterior segment manifestations of ocular metastasis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviewed and summarized recent published data on ocular imaging findings and treatment of posterior segment manifestations of ocular metastasis.

RECENT FINDINGS

Advanced ocular imaging can help differentiate ocular metastases from other mimicking lesions, including primary intraocular tumors or infections. Recently, case reports have demonstrated the successful use of targeted systemic therapy to achieve local control of vitreous and choroidal metastases.

SUMMARY

Metastasis can lead to a wide variety of posterior segment ocular manifestations. The choroid is the most common metastatic site, whereas tumor metastasizing to the retina and optic disc are rare. Patients with possible metastatic eye disease are recommended to undergo extensive investigation to determine the underlying primary cancer and ongoing systemic metastases. Currently, there is no consensus on the treatment strategy. Treatment generally includes systemic chemotherapy in combination with local treatment, such as radiotherapy, laser therapy, or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment.

Choroidal metastasis and bilateral optic nerve involvement as presenting sign of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma: A case report

A 49-year-old male presented with a gradually progressive loss of vision in both eyes. Funduscopic examination revealed bilateral optic disc swelling and two yellowish elevated choroidal lesions in the left eye. Ophthalmic imaging raised suspicion of choroidal metastasis. Adenocarcinoma of the lung was detected in further systemic evaluation.

Outcomes of Intraocular Metastasis From Lung Cancer in the Era of Targeted Therapy: A Systematic Review and Pooled Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Metastasis to intraocular structures is a serious problem in lung cancer. Due to its rarity, however, limited information is available regarding the outcomes of treatment and prognosis. Literature often suggests a poor prognosis. We review current literature on the outcomes of systemic therapy and prognostic factors.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of English literature published during 2009 to 2022 identified via Medline and Google Scholar search. Publications reporting on tumor response in the eyes or overall survival of patients with intraocular metastasis due to lung cancer were included. Pooled analysis of patients receiving systemic therapy was performed, utilizing individual-level patient data.

RESULTS

A total of 79 publications contributed 92 patients into the analysis. Choroid was the most affected intraocular structure, in 82% of patients. Histology was small cell in 13% and non-small cell in 87%. Targeted therapy was utilized in 45% of patients. A pooled analysis demonstrated that the median overall survival was 27 months (95% CI: 21.8-32.2). Visual response among those with reported assessment showed that 92% of them had stable or improved vision while 8% experienced worsening of vision. Several factors including the year of treatment, age, targeted therapy, and radiation showed a significant association with survival. The strongest predictor of improved survival was the receipt of targeted therapy, with a hazard ratio of 0.31 (95% CI: 0.14-0.71), P = .005.

CONCLUSIONS

For lung cancer patients with intraocular metastasis, systemic therapy can produce a favorable outcome. Particularly when a targeted therapy is feasible, long-term survival can be achieved.

How to Manage a Patient with Ocular Metastases?

Ocular metastases are the most frequent ocular malignant tumors; their prevalence is estimated around 5-10% and is even higher in patients with breast or lung cancer. They represent various clinical situations, but they share the same hierarchical multidisciplinary therapeutic challenge with respect to the way systemic and local therapies should be selected in combination or sequentially in the personalized medical history of a patient. The challenges include tumor control, eye preservation, and the minimization of iatrogenic damage to sensitive tissues surrounding the tumor in order to preserve vision. These aims should further contribute to maintaining quality of life in patients with metastases. Many patients with choroidal metastases have systemic molecular treatment for their primary tumor. However, secondary resistance to systemic treatment is common and may ultimately be associated with cancer relapse, even after an initial response. Therefore, it makes sense to propose local treatment concomitantly or after systemic therapy to provide a more sustainable response. The aim of this review is to present current therapeutic strategies in ocular metastases and discuss how to tailor the treatment to a specific patient.

Choroidal Metastatic Carcinoma Accompanied With Sjögren Syndrome Initially Presenting as Acute Glaucoma With Angle Closure: Case Report

Background

To report a case of choroidal metastatic carcinoma accompanied by Sjögren syndrome (SS) initially presenting as acute glaucoma with angle closure.

Case Presentation

A 47-year-old woman complaining about swelling pain and blurred vision in the right eye for 3 days had a notable previous history of dry eyes, dry mouth, and joint pain. In another clinic, she was misdiagnosed as having acute glaucoma with angle closure, but she had poor response to eye drops and intravenous drip of mannitol for controlling intraocular pressure. The intraocular pressure in the right eye was 49 mm Hg, yet with clear cornea, shallow peripheral anterior chamber depth with 1/4 cornea thickness and fixed and dilated pupil. Macular folds were noted through a 90-D lens via slit lamp. Therefore, the diagnosis of secondary glaucoma was considered. Further examinations were conducted. Ultrawide-field fundus image showed retinal detachment with choroidal detachment in the right eye with suspected solid occupation of choroid metastatic cancer. B-scan ultrasound showed an elevated mass in the posterior pole of the ocular wall. The patient showed very good response to local corticosteroid eye drops after 3 days with deepening of the anterior chamber and significant decline of intraocular pressure. The brain, ocular magnetic resonance imaging, and lung computed tomography with enhancement showed lung cancer and choroidal metastatic carcinoma. Immunological abnormalities and symptoms supported the diagnosis of SS. After 1-month systematic chemotherapy and local-regional radiotherapy, retinal and choroidal detachment was restored with a stable intraocular pressure.

Conclusion

The ophthalmologist should pay attention to differential diagnosis of angle-closure glaucoma from secondary glaucoma in cases with choroidal-retinal detachment or macular folds, which could be an ocular manifestation of choroidal metastatic carcinoma or SS in rare condition.

A Comprehensive Understanding of Choroidal Metastasis from Lung Cancer

The incidence of lung cancer with intraocular metastasis is low, of which choroidal metastasis is the most painful metastatic lesion. The clinical symptoms resulting from choroidal metastasis from lung cancer easily detected although they are rarely identified prior to the diagnosis of the primary malignancy. The quality of life of patients is inevitably impaired. Some lung cancer patients complain of ocular symptoms as the first manifestation of lung cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly overcome or delay the visual impairment and improve prognosis. The main therapeutic modalities include systemic and local treatments, while observation is also a treatment option. Currently, the feasibility and effectiveness of various treatment options are controversial worldwide. Herein, we summarize the underlying mechanisms, epidemiology, clinical features, auxiliary examinations, diagnosis, and recent treatment options for intraocular metastases.

Enhanced Anticancer Efficacy of Dual Drug-Loaded Self-Assembled Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Mediated by pH-Responsive Folic Acid and Human-Derived Cell Penetrating Peptide dNP2

The poor ability of recognition and penetration of chemotherapeutic agents to tumor cells are still great challenges for targeted breast cancer treatment. Herein, we established a tumor-targeted nanostructured lipid carrier encapsulating gambogic acid (GA) and paclitaxel (PTX), which was co-modified with acid-cleavable folic acid (cFA) and a human-derived cell penetrating peptide dNP2 (CKIKKVKKKGRKKIKKVKKKGRK). The multi-functional nano-platform exhibited an enhanced targeting and penetrability to tumor tissues, which was accomplished by the combined action of cFA and dNP2. After intravenous injection, firstly, cFA could actively target the breast cancer tissues by the selective recognition of folate receptor (FR); then, upon arrival at the tumor microenvironment, the acid-cleavable FA and dNP2 dual modified nanostructured lipid carrier (cFA/dNP2-GA/PTX-NLC) exhibited sensitive cleavage of folic acid (FA), which could reduce the hindrance effect of FA to maximize the dNP2 cell-penetrating properties. The effect of different modification on cellular uptake, in vivo bio-distribution, and anticancer activity of NLCs proved our hypothesis that compared with NLCs modified by non-cleavable FA or a single ligand, cFA/dNP2-GA/PTX-NLC displayed more efficient intracellular delivery, stronger targeting ability in vivo, improved cytotoxicity on 4T1 cells, and produced the better therapeutic efficacy of GA and PTX. The strategy affords a feasible way to overcome the poor recognition and permeability of medicines in cancer treatment.

Novel presentation of intraocular metastases in a patient with penile squamous cell carcinoma: a case report

BACKGROUND

The choroid is the most common site for intraocular tumor metastasis because of its abundant vascular supply. However, choroidal metastasis in penile cancer is highly unusual. Here, we report the first case of diagnosis of choroidal metastasis at presentation in a patient with penile squamous cell carcinoma.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 43-year-old Asian man with a 3-year history of penile cancer presented with metastasis in the right intraocular sites. Magnetic resonance imaging showed hyperintensity in the T1-weighted images and hypointensity in the T2-weighted images of the right eye. After enucleation of his right eye, histopathological analysis led to a diagnosis of metastatic, moderately differentiated penile squamous cell carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Penile cancer typically occurs as penile squamous cell carcinoma, and its most common metastatic sites are the inguinal lymph nodes. Hemorrhagic transfer of tumor cells is extremely rare, especially to intraocular sites. Intraocular metastatic tumors have a unique presentation on imaging, as observed on magnetic resonance imaging and histopathological analysis. This novel finding of intraocular metastasis in penile squamous cell carcinoma is of great significance to optic surgeons and oncologists as it has new implications in the diagnosis of and timely intervention for penile cancer metastasis.

Assessment of Serum Tumor Markers for Predicting Ocular Metastasis in Lung Adenocarcinoma: A Retrospective Study

The purpose of this study was to detect clinical variations between lung adenocarcinoma patients with and without ocular metastasis (OM) to identify risk factors for OM and assess the diagnostic values. We included 1153 patients with lung adenocarcinoma in this study. Independent t-tests and chi-square tests were used to compare patients' clinical characteristics. Statistically significant parameters were analyzed by binary logistic regression to detect risk factors of OM. The results showed that the OM group had increased alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytokeratin fragment 19 (CYFRA 21-1), carbohydrate antigen- (CA-) 125, CA-153, and total prostate-specific antigen (TPSA) compared with the NOM group. CYFRA21-1 is the most useful biomarker for detecting OM in this population.

Metastasis manners and the underlying mechanisms of ALK and ROS1 rearrangement lung cancer and current possible therapeutic strategies

The rearrangements of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) and the c-ros oncogene 1 (ROS1) have both been important driving factors in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). They have already been defined in 3-5% of NSCLC patients. ALK and ROS1 rearrangements are associated with unique clinical and pathological features, especially patients are usually younger, with milder or never smoking history, and adenocarcinoma histology. Also, they have both been found to contribute to the metastasis of NSCLC by cell migration and invasion. It has recently been recognized that the brain can be considered as a primary site for metastasis in cancers with ALK or ROS1 rearrangements. The present review summarizes the current status of NSCLC metastasis and possible mechanisms based on available evidence, and then we list possible therapeutic strategies so that an increase in control of ALK and ROS1 rearrangement of NSCLC metastases by combination therapy can be translated in an increase in overall survival and prognosis.

Retinochoroidal findings and lung cancer: first report in mexican population

INTRODUCTION

Lung cancer (LC) is the most common tumour, and the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Although cases of choroidal metastasis and cancer-associated retinopathy have been reported in LC, no studies have been conducted on the Mexican population to describe retinochoroidal findings during the course of LC, and the relationship with its stage.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate patients with a diagnosis of LC, and to describe the posterior segment findings in relationship to the stage of LC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted on 50 patients with LC (100 eyes). The demographic data included age, gender, histological type, evolution time, stage, treatment, and comorbidities. The measurement variables included visual acuity (LogMAR), anterior segment biomicroscopy, retinal photography, fluorescein retinal angiography, optical coherence tomography, and electroretinogram. All patients were evaluated by two ophthalmologists.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 26 men and 24 women, with a mean age of 65 years, and a mean time from LC diagnosis of 6 months. The principal histological type was adenocarcinoma (70%), and most (50%) were in stage II at the time of evaluation, with 15 (30%) patients having a metastasis (stage IV). The changes in the posterior segment included choroidal metastasis (16%), retinal metastasis (10%), cancer-associated retinopathy (6%), and vascular occlusions (4%). The majority of patients who presented with posterior segment alterations were in stage IV.

CONCLUSIONS

Vascular occlusions, cancer-associated retinopathy, choroidal and retinal metastases may be found in LC, with an incidence higher than that reported in the literature, especially in advanced stages of LC, although they can be found from stage II in asymptomatic patients.

Lung squamous cell carcinoma with solitary ocular metastasis and its successful treatment with thoracic surgery and chemotherapy: an interesting and rare case report

Background

The incidence of ocular metastasis from lung cancer is reported to be 0.1–7%, with adenocarcinoma and small cell lung cancer accounting for the highest proportions of these cases. The majority of cases involves metastasis to more than one other distal organ in addition to the eye. Here, we report for the first time, a case of lung squamous cell carcinoma with solitary symptomatic ocular metastasis as the initial manifestation that was managed by a multidisciplinary treatment (MDT).

Case presentation

A woman presented at the ophthalmology department of hospital with a 1-week history of left eye pain and blurred vision. Systemic examination led to the diagnosis of central lung cancer in the right lower lobe with ocular metastasis. After consultations with an MDT, including specialists from the surgery, internal medicine, ophthalmology, radiotherapy and imaging departments, the patient underwent surgery and chemotherapy. Her eye symptoms disappeared, and the ocular lesion was well controlled without any specific ocular treatment. The patient demonstrated a prolonged progression-free survival.

Conclusion

This is the first report of a rare case with solitary ocular metastasis as the initial manifestation of lung squamous cell carcinoma. This rare patient was treated based on evidence-based medicine, indicating the importance of cooperation within an MDT. The successful treatment of this case was reported as a new therapeutic reference for clinicians who encounter similar cases in the future.

New concepts in the diagnosis and management of choroidal metastases

The most frequent site of ocular metastasis is the choroid. The occurrence of choroidal metastases has increased steadily due to the longer survival of metastatic patients and the improvement of diagnostic tools. Fundoscopy, ultrasonography, and fluorescein angiography are now complemented by indocyanine green angiography and optical coherence tomography. Choroidal tumor biopsy may also confirm the metastatic nature of the tumor and help to determine the site of the primary malignancy. There is currently no consensus on the treatment strategy. Most patients have a limited life expectancy and for these complex treatments are generally not recommended. However, recent advances in systemic therapy have significantly improved survival of certain patients who may benefit from an aggressive ocular approach that could preserve vision. Although external beam radiation therapy is the most widely used treatment, more advanced forms of radiotherapy that are associated with fewer side effects can be proposed in select cases. In patients with a shorter life expectancy, systemic therapies such as those targeting oncogenic drivers, or immunotherapy can induce a regression of the choroidal metastases, and may be sufficient to temporarily decrease visual symptoms. However, they often acquire resistance to systemic treatment and ocular relapse usually requires radiotherapy for durable control. Less invasive office-based treatments, such as photodynamic therapy and intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF, may also help to preserve vision while reducing time spent in medical settings for patients in palliative care. The aim of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on choroidal metastases, with emphasis on the most recent findings in epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment.

A Case Report of Intravitreal Bevacizumab for Iris Metastasis of Small Cell Lung Carcinoma with Neovascular Glaucoma

A 79-year-old man who had been diagnosed with small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) complained of right ocular pain and blurred vision. His right intraocular pressure (IOP) was 30 mm Hg, and anterior chamber cells and multiple grayish white iris masses associated with peripheral anterior synechia (PAS) and neovascularization of the right iris were observed. We presumed that the iris masses were iris metastasis of SCLC. Despite therapy with topical eye drops and oral acetazolamide, the IOP was poorly controlled, so we injected intravitreal bevacizumab into his right eye for neovascular glaucoma. Neovascular glaucoma disappeared rapidly, but the IOP did not improve because of total PAS. To our knowledge, there is only one report of the use of intravitreal bevacizumab for SCLC metastasis in that eye and they reported that intravitreal injection resulted in successful short-term regression of presumed iris metastasis and improved control of secondary neovascular glaucoma, and the case had over one-half PAS. The previous report and our results suggest that secondary neovascular glaucoma with iris metastasis may be controlled by early intravitreal bevacizumab injection.

Successful management of retinal metastasis from renal cancer with everolimus in a monophthalmic patient: a case report

Background

The retina is an uncommon site for metastases, in particular from solid tumors. Some authors have reported a recent increase in the incidence of metastases in infrequent sites, such as brain or bone, probably due to the expanded treatment options and the resulting improved survival. Choroidal metastasis is the most common type of intraocular malignancy. The most common primary sites associated with choroidal metastasis are breast cancer in women and lung cancer in men. Treatment options are limited, but they must be discussed and adapted to the patient profile.

Cases presentation

We report a case of a 62-year-old Moroccan man with a history of monophthalmitis secondary to a war injury of 30 years’ duration. He has been followed for 28 months for metastatic clear-cell renal carcinoma. The first-line treatment was effective for 24 months, before disease progression as retinal metastasis and accentuation of lung metastases. A second-line treatment with everolimus resulted in marked improvement of symptoms, complete recovery of visual function, and partial response in retinal localization.

Conclusions

Choroidal metastasis of renal cancer is a rare situation that must be actively sought in order to arrive at a suitable therapeutic approach.

[Ocular Metastasis in Lung Cancer: a Retrospective Analysis in a Single Chinese Hospital and Literature Review]

背景与目的

眼部转移（ocular metastasis）是肺癌少见转移之一，影响患者生活质量。本研究旨在探讨肺癌合并眼转移患者的临床特征及预后。

方法

回顾性分析肺癌合并眼部转移9例患者的临床资料，回顾近10年文献报道共42例患者的临床特点。

结果

9例患者的中位年龄为51岁（范围：41岁-61岁），其中7例诊断为非小细胞肺癌（包括腺癌6例）；1例为小细胞肺癌；1例病理不详。眼转移部位方面，脉络膜8例，虹膜1例。文献回顾中，小细胞肺癌占21.4%（n=9），腺癌占47.6%（n=20），脉络膜是最常见的眼转移部位（66.7%, n=28）。肺癌合并眼转移患者，系统化疗的疾病控制率仅为28%，联合眼部局部治疗可有效控制眼部症状。

结论

肺癌合并眼部转移以肺腺癌多见，脉络膜转移是肺癌眼部转移的最常见转移部位。眼部局部治疗可控制局部症状，但系统性化疗疗效差。

Iris metastasis as the first sign of small cell lung cancer: A case report

The current study documents an unusual case of iris metastasis as the first sign of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and reviews the relevant literature to increase understanding and awareness of this rare condition. A 59-year-old male chronic smoker presented with a painful and red right eye without any disturbance of vision. The patient also complained of associated chronic cough and anorexia. Upon examination, an exfoliative, pinkish-white lesion of the right iris was observed. A systemic work-up was performed, which incidentally detected metastatic SCLC in the lower lobe of the right lung and was confirmed by histopathological examination. A thorough evaluation demonstrated no organ metastases, except in the iris. Following the failure of conservative approaches, the eye had to be enucleated. The clinical features, treatment and prognosis of this condition are briefly reviewed and the results of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) examination observed in this case are presented. Despite their rarity, iris lesions should be considered as possible manifestations of underlying malignancies. Imaging techniques, particularly CEUS, may aid the detection, diagnosis and monitoring of such lesions.

[Malignant tumours of the eye: Epidemiology, diagnostic methods and radiotherapy]

Malignant tumours of the eye are not common, barely representing 1 % of all cancers. This article aims to summarise, for each of the main eye malignant diseases, aspects of epidemiology, diagnostic methods and treatments, with a focus on radiation therapy techniques. The studied tumours are: eye metastasis, intraocular and ocular adnexal lymphomas, uveal melanomas, malignant tumours of the conjunctive, of the lids, and retinoblastomas. The last chapter outlines ocular complications of radiation therapy and their management.

Effective Treatment with Intravitreal Injection of Bevacizumab for Exudative Retinal Detachment Secondary to Choroidal Metastasis of Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

Patient: Male, 68

Final Diagnosis: Non-small cell lung cancer

Symptoms: —

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: TBLB • PET • OCT • fluorescence angiography

Specialty: Oncology

Alectinib for choroidal metastasis in a patient with crizotinib-resistant ALK rearranged positive non-small cell lung cancer

Choroidal metastasis is rare in cancer patients. Small molecules of molecular targeted agents for lung cancer with actionable mutations were reported to be palliated for symptoms caused by choroidal metastasis. Visual disturbance by choroidal metastasis significantly decreases quality of life during the patient’s remaining lifespan; therefore, radiotherapy or laser photocoagulation is proposed with consensus. However, improvement in survival with matched molecular targeted agents for oncogenic driver mutations reminds us to also be concerned with late treatment toxicities. A 30-year-old female patient previously treated with crizotinib harboring ALK rearranged non-small cell lung cancer complained of visual disturbance, fever, and bone pains undergoing anti-PD-1 antibody treatment. A decreased proportion of ALK fusion was demonstrated by fluorescence in situ hybridization in liver metastasis compared to the primary site in a chemo-naïve state. She was diagnosed with low vision, choroidal metastasis and retinal detachment. Therefore, she started alectinib treatment and both her ocular and systemic symptoms were palliated in a week. Later, she temporarily discontinued alectinib because of skin rash although the choroidal metastasis and retinal detachment resolved and she regained low vision completely at 2 weeks. She obtained partial response with alectinib for more than 5 months after recovering from skin rash.

Complete Disappearance of Choroidal Metastasis from Lung Adenocarcinoma Treated with Bevacizumab and Chemotherapy

Choroidal metastasis from lung cancer is uncommon. We report a case of choroidal metastasis as an inaugural manifestation of lung adenocarcinoma, successfully treated by docetaxel, cisplatinum, and intravenous bevacizumab as an antiangiogenesis therapy. A complete remission was obtained after 4 cycles and maintained after six cycles. This case report demonstrates the importance of the systemic bevacizumab and chemotherapy in the treatment of choroidal metastasis from adenocarcinoma of the lung.

Blurred vision as the sole initial presentation of disseminated lung malignancy

Symptomatic choroidal metastasis (CM) is a rare presenting feature of disseminated lung malignancy. Detection of the primary malignancy usually precedes ocular findings. We report a rare case of blurred vision secondary to bilateral CM as the sole initial manifestation of disseminated lung malignancy in a female patient. Pulmonary symptoms appeared 2 months later. She received radiotherapy and palliative chemotherapy and survived for 7 months after the initial presentation.

The effect of chemotherapy with cisplatin and pemetrexed for choroidal metastasis of non-squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

Choroidal metastasis from lung cancer is very rare in the clinical setting. Treatment for lung cancer with symptomatic choroidal metastasis remains uncertain because of the rarity of such cases.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study on symptomatic choroidal metastasis from lung cancer at the Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital from January 2010 to August 2011. In addition, we also performed literature review of all such patients (or of cancers with choroidal metastasis) treated with systemic chemotherapy.

RESULTS

In our study, a total of 226 lung cancer patients were registered during the study period, and only four had choroidal metastasis (4/226, 1.77 %). Three were female (75 %) and one was male, with a mean age of 40.74 (range 26-60) years. Three patients had marked choroidal tumor regression after treatment with pemetrexed and cisplatin. In the literature reviews, there are only 12 patients (including our patients) received systemic chemotherapy alone instead of local therapy and eight (66.7 %) demonstrated choroidal tumor regression after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Symptomatic choroidal metastasis from lung cancer is extremely rare. Our findings indicate that systemic chemotherapy with pemetrexed and cisplatin may be a good option for such patients. Further large-scale studies for the treatment of such patients are warranted. However, currently, radiotherapy is still the gold standard for such patients.

Uveal metastasis from lung cancer: clinical features, treatment, and outcome in 194 patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of patients with uveal metastasis from lung cancer.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

PARTICIPANTS

There were 194 patients with a diagnosis of uveal metastasis from lung cancer.

INTERVENTION

Radiotherapy, chemotherapy, enucleation, or observation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Ocular tumor control, final visual acuity, and tumor-related death.

RESULTS

There were 374 uveal metastatic tumors originating from primary lung cancer in 229 eyes of 194 patients. Tumor location included choroid (88%), ciliary body (2%), and iris (10%), with bilateral involvement in 18%. Diagnosis of uveal metastasis preceded the diagnosis of primary lung cancer in 44% of patients. The choroidal metastatic focus had a mean basal diameter of 8 mm and mean thickness of 3 mm, and were mostly located posterior to the equator (91%). The choroidal metastasis commonly had yellow or orange color (98%), had plateau (61%) or dome (38%) configuration, and displayed associated subretinal fluid (85%). Choroidal tumors were multifocal in 49 cases (23%). Ciliary body tumors were commonly dome shaped (75%) with an episcleral sentinel vessel (75%). Iris tumors were multifocal in 2 cases (13%), had visible intrinsic vessels (97%), and were associated with tumor seeding in the angle (38%) or on the iris stroma (25%). The uveal metastases were treated with teletherapy (31%), chemotherapy (18%), brachytherapy (9%), chemotherapy combined with teletherapy or brachytherapy (14%), enucleation (3%), or observation (21%). At last visit, eyes with follow-up showed tumor regression (66%), stability (12%), growth (14%), recurrence (3%), or new metastasis (5%). Visual acuity improved or remained stable in 59% eyes. One-year mortality from the time of detection of uveal metastasis was 54%.

CONCLUSIONS

Of 194 patients with uveal metastasis from lung cancer, 44% did not have a history of known lung cancer. Current methods of ocular treatment allow globe salvage in 92% of patients and improved/stable vision in 59% of patients. Systemic prognosis remains poor with tumor-related death in 54% of patients at 1 year.

Choroidal metastasis as a presenting manifestation of lung cancer: a report of 3 cases and systematic review of the literature

Symptomatic choroidal metastasis is a rare presenting manifestation of lung cancer. We describe here 3 patients with non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer who presented with choroidal metastasis and who were diagnosed and treated by the authors. We performed a systematic literature review of the previously reported patients with choroidal metastasis from lung cancer in the English-language literature. We excluded case series lacking individual patient data and identified 75 patients. In 23 of these patients, choroidal metastasis was not the presenting manifestation of lung cancer. Therefore, we included 55 patients (3 index and 52 previously reported) in the analysis. We present the demographic profile, histology, disease stage, ocular and lung lesions, diagnostic and treatment (systemic and ocular) modalities, and treatment outcomes. The majority of patients were male (67.3%) and were current or ex-smokers (78.3%); the mean age was 55.1 (standard deviation 11.2) years. Adenocarcinoma (n = 23) was the most common histologic type followed by squamous (n = 11) and small cell (n = 8). Left eye (n = 32) involvement was more common than right eye (n = 19) or bilateral (n = 4). Among patients for whom the location of primary lesion was specified, the left upper lobe (n = 13) was the most common site. The most common diagnostic modalities were bronchoscopic lung biopsy (n = 15) and enucleation (n = 13), while the liver (30.9%) was the most common extraocular metastatic site identified. Systemic chemotherapy was given in 56.4% of cases, and disease progression was the most common outcome among evaluable patients. Ocular treatment modalities included radiation (n = 23), enucleation (n = 14), and systemic steroids (n = 8). Regression of choroidal metastases with treatment was observed in 66.7% of patients who did not undergo enucleation as the primary treatment modality. Of the 3 index patients, 2 each received pemetrexed-cisplatin (as first-line therapy), gefitinib or erlotinib (as second- or third-line therapy), and intravitreal bevacizumab; and 1 patient received systemic bevacizumab. Two patients had partial response radiologically with systemic treatment, and all 3 patients had regression of choroidal metastases with ocular treatment. Recommendations regarding systemic and local (ocular) management of patients with choroidal metastasis as the presenting manifestation of lung cancer are provided.

Case of metastatic pulmonary carcinoma in optic disc diagnosed from results of biopsy performed during vitrectomy surgery

BACKGROUND

Most intraocular metastatic tumors occur in the uveal tract, while isolated metastasis to the optic nerve is rarely found. We report a case of metastasis to the optic disc from primary lung cancer, diagnosed from biopsy findings obtained during a vitrectomy.

PATIENT AND METHODS

A 69-year-old male presented with gradual visual impairment due to a milky white tumour that extended from the optic disc into the vitreous cavity. A systemic examination revealed primary squamous cell lung cancer.

RESULTS

A biopsy specimen was obtained from the optic disc tumor during a vitrectomy, which led to a diagnosis of metastasis from lung cancer. Despite courses of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the patient died of brain metastasis.

DISCUSSION

There are few reports of secondary optic disc tumors and pathological biopsy findings are rare. When a milky white tumor is observed extending from the optic disc, a possible differential diagnosis is metastatic neoplasm.

Head and neck manifestations of distant carcinomas

Metastatic tumors to the head and neck from distant carcinomas are rare lesions that epitomize the "zebras." They represent a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians and health providers. These lesions usually rank low in the differential diagnosis list, but a history of cancer should prompt clinicians about the possibility of a metastatic lesion from a distant carcinoma. The presence of these lesions usually represents a poor prognosis. The surgeon's role in treating these lesions is to improve or maintain the patient's quality of life, taking into consideration the overall prognosis.

Anti-invasive effect of gambogic acid in MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells

Gambogic acid (GA) has been known to have antitumor activity in vitro and in vivo. In the present study, we investigated the anti-invasive effects of GA in MDA-MB-231 human breast carcinoma cells. The results indicated that GA significantly inhibited the adhesion, migration, and invasion of the cells in vitro tested by the heterotypic adhesion assay, wound migration assay, and chamber invasion assay. Results of Western blotting and immunocytochemistry analysis showed that GA could suppress the expressions of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and 9 (MMP-9) in MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, gelatin zymography revealed that GA decreased the activities of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Additionally, GA exerted an inhibitory effect on the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK, while it had no effect on p38. Taken together, our results demonstrated the anti-invasive property of GA for the first time and indicated it could serve as a promising drug for the treatment of cancer metastasis.