Melanocytic Nevus of the Superior Conjunctival Fornix: A Case Report

Introduction

Conjunctival nevi are benign tumors that are commonly located at the nasal or temporal limbus and rarely in the fornix or tarsus. We report a case of a patient presenting with a solitary compound cystic nevus of the conjunctival fornix in the background of bilateral complexion-associated melanosis.

Case Presentation

A 71-year-old African-American female was referred for evaluation of an incidentally noted melanocytic lesion of the right conjunctival fornix. The patient underwent an excisional biopsy, revealing histological features consistent with a compound cystic nevus.

Conclusion

This finding is noteworthy due to the rarity of conjunctival nevi originating in the fornix. The case underscores the importance of excisional biopsy in evaluating conjunctival forniceal melanocytic lesions to exclude malignant melanoma, a critical consideration for prognosis.

A CASE OF HIGH-RISK CILIARY BODY MELANOMA ARISING IN AN EYE AFTER RESECTION OF AN IRIDOCILIARY MELANOCYTOMA

PURPOSE

To report a case of a benign iridociliary melanocytoma recurring as malignant melanoma after excision.

METHODS

Observational case report with clinical data, slit-lamp examination findings, ultrasound biomicroscopy results, and histopathological and genetic analyses.

RESULTS

A 40-year-old African American woman initially presented with a superonasal iridociliary mass with a maximal thickness of 2.5 mm. Visual acuity of the involved eye was 20/25, intraocular pressure was 52 mmHg on maximal pressure-lowering medications, and Humphrey visual field testing revealed an inferior altitudinal defect. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy and incisional biopsy followed by tumor excision confirmed a benign melanocytoma. After 5 years of stability, possible recurrence was detected on ultrasound biomicroscopy as an increase in ciliary body thickness. The new lesion grew to a thickness of 5.1 mm over the next 18 months of observation. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy and gene expression profile of the recurrent lesion diagnosed a malignant melanoma with high metastatic potential (Class 2). The patient underwent plaque brachytherapy and has ongoing regression of the tumor.

CONCLUSION

Transformation of benign iridociliary melanocytoma to melanoma is rare. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first documented case of a melanoma arising in an eye after initial excision of a melanocytoma. Close monitoring of these patients is warranted even years after the initial excision.

Transitioning from a COMS-based plaque brachytherapy program to using eye physics plaques and plaque simulator treatment planning system: A single institutional experience

The aim of this work is to describe the implementation and commissioning of a plaque brachytherapy program using Eye Physics eye plaques and Plaque Simulator treatment planning system based on the experience of one institution with an established COMS-based plaque program. Although commissioning recommendations are available in official task groups publications such as TG-129 and TG-221, we found that there was a lack of published experiences with the specific details of such a transition and the practical application of the commissioning guidelines. The specific issues addressed in this paper include discussing the lack of FDA approval of the Eye Physics plaques and Plaque Simulator treatment planning system, the commissioning of the plaques and treatment planning system including considerations of the heterogeneity corrected calculations, and the implementation of a second check using an FDA-approved treatment planning system. We have also discussed the use of rental plaques, the analysis of plans using dose histograms, and the development of a quality management program. By sharing our experiences with the commissioning of this program this document will assist other institutions with the same task and act as a supplement to the recommendations in the recently published TG-221.

Pigmented Corneal Mass in a 59-Year-Old Man With Cutaneous Melanoma

A 59-year-old man with history of cutaneous melanoma of the trunk was referred for evaluation of a pigmented angle lesion in the right eye located in the cornea without extension past the Schwalbe line. It did not involve other angle structures such as the trabecular meshwork or scleral spur. What would you do next?

Preliminary Results of Uveal Melanoma Treated With Iodine-125 Plaques: Analysis of Disease Control and Visual Outcomes With 63 Gy to the Target Volume

Purpose

Our purpose was to review the preliminary outcomes of patients with uveal melanoma treated with iodine-125 plaques using a novel treatment planning approach.

Methods and Materials

This was a single institution, retrospective review of patients treated with iodine-125 brachytherapy for uveal melanoma from November 2016 to February 2019. We used 3-dimensional treatment planning with the Eye Physics Plaque Simulator to ensure that a minimum of 63 Gy covered a 2-mm circumferential tumor margin and the apex height of the tumor over 94 hours. Primary endpoints were local failure, systemic metastasis, final visual acuity (VA), and radiation retinopathy. Associations between primary endpoints and tumor characteristics/radiation dose were performed using univariate analysis.

Results

Sixty-nine patients were included in the analysis. Mean largest basal diameter was 11.67 mm (range, 6-18; median, 12), and the average tumor thickness to the inner sclera was 3.18 mm (range, 0.5-9.3; median, 2.8). Molecular testing that was successfully performed in 59 patients revealed that 27% (16 of 59) had class 2 gene expression profile designation. Average follow-up posttreatment was 28.3 months (range, 4-46; median, 29), with 6% (4 of 69) developing local failure and 6% (4 of 69) developing metastasis over this duration. Average final VA (0.57 logMAR [Snellen 20/74]; range, 0-2.9; median, 0.3) was decreased from baseline (0.34 logMAR [Snellen 20/44]; range, 0-2.3; median, 0.1), and 48% (33 of 69) developed radiation retinopathy. Fifty percent of patients had a final VA 20/40 or better and 22% had a final VA 20/200 or worse.

Conclusions

In patients with uveal melanoma, preliminary results with brachytherapy using Eye Physics plaques with a treatment plan that delivers 63 Gy to a 2-mm circumferential tumor margin and the tumor apex suggest effective disease control and favorable VA outcomes.

Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Microvascular Variations in Pre- and Posttreatment of Retinoblastoma Tumors

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to describe variations in microvasculature before and after treatment of treatment-naive lesions and during consolidation therapy of retinoblastoma lesions using an investigational portable optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) system.

Methods

This study is a single-center, prospective, observational case series. Recruited subjects were either undergoing surveillance for retinoblastoma or had newly detected retinoblastoma. Nine tumors from 7 eyes in 6 patients were included. During exams under anesthesia, the tumors were imaged with an investigational portable OCTA system. OCTA images were analyzed to assess vascular changes before and after treatment.

Results

In all 6 presented cases, OCTA imaging revealed distinctive vascular patterns, such as dilated feeder arteries and draining veins, disorganized and complex branching patterns, irregular vessel calibers, and dilation and tortuosity of vessels. After treatment, OCTA imaging revealed decreased intrinsic tumor vascularity and reduced dilation of draining and feeder vessels. Tumor relapse demonstrated prominent vascularity (n = 1) that resolved on repeat OCTA after transpupillary thermotherapy treatment. Type 2 (n = 1), 3 (n = 6), and 4 (n = 1) tumor regression patterns were seen in our patients after treatment, and OCTA findings were consistent with a previously published report. Interestingly, in one of the presented cases, OCTA demonstrated clear feeder, draining, and intrinsic tumor vessels that were not as evident on fluorescein angiography.

Conclusions

OCTA may offer a noninvasive and sensitive technique to evaluate the vasculature of both the tumor and the surrounding retina in retinoblastoma. With additional research and development into its use in patients with retinoblastoma, OCTA may one day be useful in assessing treatment response and residual tumor activity.

Microvascular Features of Treated Retinoblastoma Tumors in Children Assessed Using OCTA

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To describe the microvascular features of treated, clinically regressed, or reactivated retinoblastoma lesions using an investigational portable optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) system.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Single-center, prospective, cross-sectional, consecutive case-series of children with previously treated retinoblastoma who underwent portable OCTA of posterior retinoblastoma lesions.

RESULTS

Eight tumors from seven eyes of five children with retinoblastoma were included. Tumors with types 1 (calcified remnant, n = 3), 2 (non-calcified remnant, n = 1), and 3 (both calcified and noncalcified remnants, n = 1) regression revealed persistent intrinsic superficial vasculature on OCTA (five of five lesions; 100%). Lesions with type 4 regression (atrophic scar, n = 2) had complete vascular flow voids in the involved retina and underlying choriocapillaris. A reactivated tumor (n = 1) showed a distinct area of vascularity with prominent feeder/draining vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

OCTA revealed that significant vascularity exists in inactive retinoblastoma lesions. Dilated feeder vessels may suggest continued disease activity. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:43-49.].

Successive Uveal Melanomas with Different Gene Expression Profiles in an Eye with Ocular Melanocytosis

Ocular melanocytosis portends a higher risk of uveal melanoma. Multifocal uveal melanoma has been described previously and has been associated with ocular melanocytosis. Historically, histopathology has been used to differentiate tumors; however, molecular profiling now allows for better prognostication and determination of metastatic risk. The present case describes a patient with ocular melanocytosis who developed two sequential uveal melanomas in the same eye separated by 4 years. The uveal melanoma-specific gene expression profile (GEP) testing for the first tumor was class 1A and the second tumor was class 2. While the first tumor had low metastatic risk, the second tumor had a higher risk of metastasis, demonstrating the importance of GEP testing in cases of multifocal disease.

NCCN Guidelines Insights: Melanoma, Version 3.2016

The NCCN Guidelines for Melanoma have been significantly revised over the past few years in response to emerging data on a number of novel agents and treatment regimens. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the data and rationale supporting extensive changes to the recommendations for systemic therapy in patients with metastatic or unresectable melanoma.

Venous Loop Reveals an Occult Retinoblastoma Tumor

A 14-day-old girl presented with bilateral hereditary retinoblastoma. At 3 months, a slight bend in the superotemporal arcade was observed to have developed into a venous loop. With concern for an occult lesion along the arcade, handheld optical coherence tomography (hhOCT) confirmed a small tumor and helped to guide prompt laser treatment while sparing the venous arcade. A venous loop is a previously unrecognized clinical finding that preceded the clinical detection and hhOCT confirmation of the tumor. The authors hypothesize that the venous loop was induced by pro-angiogenic factors secreted by the tumor. Portable hhOCT is a valuable adjunct imaging modality in the diagnosis and management of small retinoblastoma tumors. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:768-770.].

An international survey of classification and treatment choices for group D retinoblastoma

AIM

To determine which IIRC scheme was used by retinoblastoma centers worldwide and the percentage of D eyes treated primarily with enucleation versus globe salvaging therapies as well as to correlate trends in treatment choice to IIRC version used and geographic region.

METHODS

An anonymized electronic survey was offered to 115 physicians at 39 retinoblastoma centers worldwide asking about IIRC classification schemes and treatment patterns used between 2008 and 2012. Participants were asked to record which version of the IIRC was used for classification, how many group D eyes were diagnosed, and how many eyes were treated with enucleation versus globe salvaging therapies. Averages of eyes per treatment modality were calculated and stratified by both IIRC version and geographic region. Statistical significance was determined by Chi-square, ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests using Prism.

RESULTS

The survey was completed by 29% of physicians invited to participate. Totally 1807 D eyes were diagnosed. Regarding IIRC system, 27% of centers used the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) version, 33% used the Children's Oncology Group (COG) version, 23% used the Philadelphia version, and 17% were unsure. The rate for primary enucleation varied between 0 and 100% and the mean was 29%. By IIRC version, primary enucleation rates were: Philadelphia, 8%; COG, 34%; and CHLA, 37%. By geographic region, primary enucleation rates were: Latin America, 57%; Asia, 40%; Europe, 36%; Africa, 10%, US, 8%; and Middle East, 8%. However, systemic chemoreduction was used more often than enucleation in all regions except Latin America with a mean of 57% per center (P<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Worldwide there is no consensus on which IIRC version is used, systemic chemoreduction was the most frequently used initial treatment during the study period followed by enucleation and primary treatment modality, especially enucleation, varied greatly with regards to IIRC version used and geographic region.

Acute Presentation of Mesectodermal Leiomyoma of the Ciliary Body

Purpose

We report a case of acutely presenting mesectodermal leiomyoma of the ciliary body in a 29-year-old female who reported waking up with swollen eyelids of the right eye and light-perception vision. The affected eye had elevated intraocular pressure, a flat anterior chamber, and a pale, round mass arising from the nasal ciliary body, invading the angle and protruding into the visual axis posterior to the lens. Within days, the visual acuity decreased to no light perception. The eye was enucleated.

Methods

The enucleated eye harbored a tumor arising from the ciliary body, measuring 18 mm in the greatest dimension. Spindled cells with fibrillary cytoplasmic processes suggested a neural origin though negative for S-100, Melan-A, and HMB-45. The cells stained strongly positive for smooth muscle actin and vimentin, leading to the diagnosis of mesectodermal leiomyoma of the ciliary body.

Results

We review the literature to expand upon the clinical findings, diagnostic methods, and histopathologic and immunohistochemistry characteristics of mesectodermal leiomyoma.

Conclusion

Leiomyoma must be in the differential diagnosis for ciliary body mass, especially in women of reproductive age. Diagnosis relies on histopathology and immunohistochemistry. The mechanism of acute symptom onset may be multifactorial. This case emphasizes the possibility of acute presentation of a rare, benign intraocular tumor.

Anterior Chamber Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma of the Iris Masquerading as Uveitis-Glaucoma-Hyphema Syndrome

PURPOSE

To report a case of iris non-Hodgkin lymphoma initially thought to be uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome.

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings in a patient with recurrent hyphemas and increased ocular pressure who eventually was found to have a rapidly growing iris mass.

RESULTS

An 89-year-old man with a history of cataract extraction and mantle cell lymphoma developed recurrent hyphema, which was subsequently revealed to be due to an iris mass. A biopsy revealed non-Hodgkin lymphoma that could not be formally subclassified but was suspicious for mantle cell lymphoma. The tumor showed a partial response to ibrutinib.

CONCLUSION

Iris lymphoma can masquerade as a cause of recurrent hyphema after cataract extraction. Ophthalmologists should be aware of this presentation, especially in patients with a history of lymphoma.

Clinical and histologic findings in patients with uveal melanomas after taking tumor necrosis factor-α inhibitors

OBJECTIVE

To describe the progression of uveal melanocytic lesions to melanomas after initiation of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) inhibitors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We report 3 cases of uveal melanoma occurring after treatment with TNF-α inhibitors, 2 from Mayo Clinic and 1 from Yale University. The study took place from February 27, 2009, through July 15, 2013.

RESULTS

Two women and one man with inflammatory disease who received TNF-α inhibitors had subsequent development of uveal melanomas. The 2 women had inflammatory bowel disease and had been followed up for melanocytic tumors that grew markedly within 1 year after beginning treatment with TNF-α inhibitors to the point of requiring treatment. One had histologic confirmation of the melanoma. The male patient had rheumatoid arthritis that was being treated with TNF-α inhibitors. Serial ultrasonography was performed to monitor bilateral diffuse scleritis, and within 16 months of initiation of TNF-α inhibitor therapy, a choroidal mass was detected that continued to grow over the next 3 months. The patient elected to have enucleation, which revealed uveal melanoma and thinning of the sclera from the previous scleritis.

CONCLUSION

Our 3 cases of uveal melanocytic tumors occurring after the use of TNF-α inhibitors add to the growing literature suggesting a correlation between TNF-α inhibitors and the development of malignant neoplasms. Considering the association between cutaneous melanoma and TNF-α inhibitors, we recommend that patients have an eye examination before initiation of TNF-α inhibitors, and those with preexisting nevi should be followed up at regular intervals.

Verification of supraselective drug delivery for retinoblastoma using intra-arterial gadolinium

We present a description of retinoblastoma treated with supraselective intra-arterial chemotherapy, demonstrating selective delivery of the infused chemotherapeutic agent into the tumor bed by MRI. A 7-month-old presented with group E (international classification) unilateral retinoblastoma. We treated the patient with several rounds of intra-ophthalmic artery melphalan. Gadolinium was infused along with melphalan to visualize the distribution of this chemotherapeutic drug. Intraoperative MRI was obtained within 15&emsp14;min after treatment and showed increased enhancement of the tumor and subretinal space. We demonstrate here that supraselective administration of chemotherapy into the ophthalmic artery appears to result in drug delivery to the tumor and subretinal space.

Fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography findings in choroidal melanocytic lesions

Purpose:

To establish the characteristics of secondary retinal and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) changes associated with the presence of choroidal melanoma and choroidal nevus as documented by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus autofluorescence (FAF).

Materials and Methods:

PubMed review of major English publications examining the correlation between clinical characteristics of choroidal melanoma and nevus with OCT and FAF findings.

Results:

The intrinsic properties of choroidal melanoma, as well as overlying RPE changes, drusen, and lipofuscin are best characterized by FAF, while OCT is more sensitive for the identification of subretinal and intraretinal fluid as well as atrophy, degeneration, and photoreceptor loss in the neurosensory retina.

Conclusions:

Secondary retinal changes associated with choroidal melanocytic lesions can be documented by OCT and FAF. OCT-evident changes are observed more often with choroidal melanoma than choroidal nevus. OCT is better suited to identify the overlying retinal detachment and edema, even before these findings are clinically apparent. FAF is most useful in documenting the presence of lipofuscin, a finding that represents one of the important criteria in differentiating small choroidal melanoma from benign choroidal nevus.

Small choroidal melanoma with monosomy 3

PURPOSE

To report a patient with small juxtapapillary choroidal melanoma with chromosome 3 monosomy treated with I(125) plaque and transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT). A 64-year-old Caucasian male presented with painless blurred vision of the left eye. Ocular examination disclosed a small juxtapapillary choroidal melanocytic tumor with overlying subretinal fluid and orange pigment. Ultrasound showed an elevated choroidal mass of 2 mm thickness with low reflectivity on A-scan and hollowness on B scan, consistent with a small choroidal melanoma. The patient was treated with plaque I(125) radiotherapy combined with one session of TTT. Genetic testing of the tumor cells obtained by fine needle aspiration biopsy showed chromosome 3 monosomy. At 1 year after treatment, the tumor was regressed with resolution of subretinal fluid and 20/40 visual acuity. A small choroidal melanoma can manifest monosomy of chromosome 3, a known predictive factor for the development of systemic metastasis.

Ocular neoplastic disease

Ocular neoplasms, both primary and metastatic, may present with visual disturbance or vision loss and often are asymptomatic. Clinical ophthalmologic examination may demonstrate leukocoria, abnormal pupillary light reflex, or a mass lesion with or without retinal detachment or hemorrhage. Retinoblastoma in children and uveal melanoma and ocular metastases in adults are the most important ocular malignant neoplasms referred for imaging to aid with diagnosis and staging. Familiarity with their common imaging appearances, the common patterns of spread, and the diagnostic findings of greatest concern to the ocular oncologist will enhance accuracy of imaging interpretation. Clinical ophthalmologic examination and imaging using B-scan ultrasound, A-scan ultrasound, fluorescein angiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have complementary roles in ocular tumor staging and treatment assessment.

Periocular triamcinolone for prevention of macular edema after plaque radiotherapy of uveal melanoma: a randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficacy and safety of periocular triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg) for the prevention of macular edema in patients undergoing plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

PARTICIPANTS AND CONTROLS

One-hundred sixty-three patients with newly diagnosed uveal melanoma undergoing iodine 125 plaque radiotherapy were entered into the study. Fifty-five patients were randomized to the control group and 108 to the triamcinolone group. Eighteen-month data were available for 143 (88%) of the 163 patients.

INTERVENTION

Periocular injection of triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg in 1 ml) at the time of plaque radiotherapy and 4 months and 8 months later. Optical coherence tomography was performed at each patient evaluation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Optical coherence tomography-evident macular edema, moderate vision loss, and poor final visual acuity.

RESULTS

Optical coherence tomography-evident macular edema occurred significantly less often in the triamcinolone group compared with the control group up to 18 months after plaque radiotherapy (hazard estimate, 0.45; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-0.70; P = 0.001). At the 18-month follow-up, moderate vision loss (loss of 3 lines or more of best-corrected visual acuity [BCVA]) and severe vision loss (BCVA <5/200 Snellen) occurred significantly less frequently in the triamcinolone group than in the control group (31% vs. 48% [P = 0.039] and 5% vs. 15% [P = 0.048], respectively). Rates of elevated intraocular pressure and cataract progression were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Periocular triamcinolone is beneficial in reducing the risk of macular edema up to 18 months after plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma and significantly reduces the risk of moderate vision loss and poor visual acuity in these patients.

Uveal prolapse following cataract extraction simulating melanoma

Prolapsed uveal tissue through a cataract incision can simulate any pigmented epibulbar mass, including conjunctival melanoma, extraocular extension ofa ciliary body or choroidal melanoma, and pigmented squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva. The authors describe an 88-year-old woman who presented with an enlarging pigmented epibulbar mass on the left eye. Although the lesion closely simulated a conjunctival melanoma or extraocular extension of a uveal melanoma, closer evaluation revealed thin uveal tissue extending through partial wound dehiscence from cataract surgery that was performed 3 years earlier. The lesion was consistent with prolapsed uveal tissue through a cataract wound masquerading as a melanoma. Therefore, uveal prolapse should be considered in the differential diagnosis of conjunctival melanoma or extraocular extension of uveal melanoma.

Endolymphatic sac tumor as initial manifestation of von hippel-lindau syndrome

PURPOSE

To report endolymphatic sac tumor (ELST) as the initial finding in von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome.

METHODS

Case report.

RESULTS

A 4-year-old boy presented in February 2001 with right hearing loss and seventh nerve palsy from ELST. Genetic analysis showed a VHL mutation (gene 3p25-26). Systemic and ocular examination for VHL syndrome-related tumors was unrevealing. Four years later, multiple retinal hemangioblastoma (retinal capillary hemangioma) were detected in both eyes and successfully treated with argon laser photocoagulation.

CONCLUSION

ELSTs can be the initial manifestation of VHL syndrome. Lifelong screening for related tumors, particularly retinal hemangioblastoma, is advised.

Optical Coherence Tomography of Choroidal Osteoma in 22 Cases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the retinal status overlying choroidal osteoma using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

DESIGN

Retrospective noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-two eyes with choroidal osteoma.

METHODS

Choroidal osteoma was studied with fundus photography, ultrasonography, and OCT.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Retinal status over the calcified and decalcified portions of choroidal osteoma.

RESULTS

There were 8 completely calcified and 14 partially decalcified choroidal osteomas. Optical coherence tomography was performed over the calcified portion in 21 eyes and over the decalcified portion in 10 eyes. The calcified portion displayed an overlying intact inner retina (n = 21 [100%]), intact outer retina (n = 20 [95%]), and intact photoreceptor layer (n = 21 [100%]). In contrast, the decalcified portion showed an intact inner retina (n = 9 [90%]) and markedly thinned to absent outer retina and photoreceptor layers (n = 10 [100%]). Of the 18 eyes with subfoveolar choroidal osteoma, visual acuity (VA) was 20/20 to 20/50 in all 11 eyes with calcified tumor, and OCT confirmed preservation of retinal architecture. In contrast, VA was 20/200 or worse in all 7 eyes with subfoveolar decalcified tumor, correlating with OCT findings of outer retinal thinning and photoreceptor loss.

CONCLUSIONS

The retina shows profound outer layer thinning and photoreceptor loss over decalcified choroidal osteoma. These findings correlate with poor VA over decalcified subfoveolar choroidal osteoma compared with good VA over calcified subfoveolar tumor.

Small Choroidal Melanoma with Chromosome 3 Monosomy on Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the presence of chromosome 3 monosomy in small choroidal melanoma using fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB).

DESIGN

Noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty-six patients with small choroidal melanoma measuring 3 mm or less in thickness who were undergoing plaque radiotherapy.

METHODS

Fine-needle aspiration biopsy was used at the time of plaque radiotherapy to sample tumor cells using a 27-gauge long needle via an indirect transvitreal approach into the tumor apex for postequatorial tumors or a 30-gauge short needle via a direct transscleral approach into the tumor base for preequatorial tumors.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Chromosome 3 monosomy in small choroidal melanoma.

RESULTS

The median tumor thickness was 2.6 mm. Monosomy 3 was found in 15 (27%) cases and disomy 3 was found in 32 (57%) cases. In 9 (16%) cases, genomic DNA yield was insufficient for genetic analysis. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy with a 27-gauge needle transvitreal approach provided quantity sufficient for genetic testing in 31 (97%) of 32 cases versus 16 (67%) of 24 cases sampled with a 30-gauge transscleral technique. Compared with disomy 3 tumors, monosomy 3 tumors were statistically more likely to occur in older patients (P = 0.040). Monosomy 3 (versus disomy 3) tumors showed thickness of more than 2 mm in 100% (vs. 84%), subretinal fluid in 87% (vs. 94%), symptoms in 40% (vs. 56%), orange pigment in 93% (vs. 81%), and margin of 3 mm or less to the optic disc in 20% (vs. 50%). There was no statistical difference between monosomy 3 and disomy 3 tumors in the presence or number of these clinical factors. However, small choroidal melanomas with monosomy 3 mutation were more likely to have had documented growth (63%) compared with those with disomy 3 (25%; P = 0.025; odds ratio, 5.00).

CONCLUSIONS

Using FNAB at the time of plaque radiotherapy, monosomy 3 was found in approximately 27% of small choroidal melanomas, more often in older patients and tumors with documented growth. Transvitreal biopsy into the tumor apex provided better yield compared with transscleral biopsy into the tumor base.

Chromosome 3 Analysis of Uveal Melanoma Using Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy at the Time of Plaque Radiotherapy in 140 Consecutive Cases

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of genetic testing of uveal melanoma using fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB).

METHODS

We reviewed the clinical records of all patients of the Ocular Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital with the diagnosis of uveal melanoma who underwent FNAB for genetic testing for chromosome 3 status between November 1, 2005, and March 1, 2006. The FNAB was performed immediately before plaque radiotherapy. The specimens underwent genetic analysis using DNA amplification and microsatellite assay to determine the presence of monosomy 3.

RESULTS

A total of 140 eyes of 140 patients with uveal melanoma were sampled for chromosome 3 abnormalities using FNAB. Monosomy 3 was found in 44 cases (31%), disomy 3 was found in 76 cases (54%), and the genomic DNA yield was insufficient for genetic analysis in 20 cases (14%). Monosomy 3 was found in 16 of 61 small melanomas (26%), 24 of 67 medium melanomas (36%), and 4 of 12 large melanomas (33%). Adequate DNA was achieved in 97% of cases using a 27-gauge needle via the transvitreal tumor apex approach and in 75% of cases using a 30-gauge needle via the transscleral tumor base approach. Factors predictive of monosomy 3 included greater tumor basal dimension (P=.02) and greater distance from the optic disc (P=.02). Transient localized vitreous hemorrhage was found in 46% of eyes. No cases of diffuse vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, or tumor recurrence along the biopsy tract were found.

CONCLUSION

We found that in most cases, FNAB provides adequate DNA for genetic analysis of uveal melanoma using microsatellite assay.

Chromosome 3 analysis of uveal melanoma using fine-needle aspiration biopsy at the time of plaque radiotherapy in 140 consecutive cases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility of genetic testing of uveal melanoma using fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB).

METHODS

Noncomparative case series of 140 patients in which FNAB was performed immediately prior to plaque radiotherapy. The specimen was sent for genetic analysis using DNA amplification and microsatellite assay for evaluation for monosomy 3.

RESULTS

Monosomy 3 was found in 44 cases (32%) and disomy 3 in 76 cases (54%); genomic DNA yield was insufficient for genetic analysis in 20 cases (14%). Monosomy 3 was found in 26% of small melanomas (16/61), 36% of medium melanomas (24/67), and 33% of large melanomas (4/12). Adequate DNA was achieved in 97% of cases using a 27-gauge needle via transvitreal tumor apex approach and in 75% of cases using a 30-gauge needle via transscleral tumor base approach. Factors predictive of monosomy 3 included greater tumor basal dimension (P = .016) and greater distance from the optic disc (P = .019). Transient localized vitreous hemorrhage was found in 46% of eyes. There was no case of diffuse vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment, or tumor recurrence along the biopsy tract.

CONCLUSIONS

FNAB provides adequate DNA in most cases for genetic analysis of uveal melanoma using microsatellite assay.

Optical Coherence Tomography of Retinal Astrocytic Hamartoma in 15 Cases

OBJECTIVE

To describe the features of retinal astrocytic hamartoma using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational, noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifteen consecutive eyes from 14 patients with retinal astrocytic hamartoma.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Optical coherence tomography characteristics of the tumor.

RESULTS

The mean patient age at OCT was 33 years, and tuberous sclerosis was present in 3 patients (21%). By ophthalmoscopy, the mean basal diameter of the tumor was 3.6 mm. By OCT, the tumor showed hyperreflectivity at its surface, internal retinal disorganization, and a gradual gently sloping transition from a normal retina into a tumorous retina in all 15 cases (100%). By OCT, the retinal disorganization was limited to the inner retina in 3 (20%), outer retina in 0 (0%), full retina in 5 (33%), and inner retina with no view of deeper layers due to shadowing in 7 (47%). On OCT, there was mild retinal traction on the surface of the tumor in 4 (27%), discrete internal moth-eaten optically empty spaces representing intralesional calcification or intratumoral cavities in 10 (67%), and optical shadowing posterior to the tumor in 14 (93%). Other retinal findings on OCT included shallow elevation of the adjacent retina in 2 (13%), adjacent retinal edema in 4 (27%), and macular edema in 3 (20%).

CONCLUSIONS

Retinal astrocytic hamartoma shows characteristic features on OCT, including a gradual transition from a normal retina into an optically hyperreflective mass with retinal disorganization, characteristic moth-eaten spaces, and posterior shadowing.

Progressive Enlargement of Cavity Within Melanoma Masquerading as Iris Cyst

PURPOSE

To describe progressive enlargement of intralesional cavities within a mass that masqueraded clinically as an iris pigment epithelial cyst for 2 years but later proved to be a melanoma.

METHODS

An 81-year-old woman developed asymptomatic focal elevation of the iris, and ultrasound biomicroscopy showed a fluid-filled mass that was interpreted as an iris pigment epithelial cyst. Over a 2-year period of observation, the cavity enlarged from 0.7 to 10 mm, and the solid component enlarged from approximately 6 to 16 mm basal dimension.

RESULTS

On referral, visual acuity was 20/400 in the right eye and 20/25 in the left eye. The affected right eye displayed a pigmented mushroom-shaped ciliary body mass with anterior chamber invasion, distorting the pupil and occupying 40% of the anterior chamber. Ultrasound biomicroscopy and B-scan ultrasonography revealed many cavities within the 14-mm-thick mass, suggestive of ciliary body melanoma. After enucleation, histopathology disclosed multiple cavities, some with granular eosinophilic material, within a mushroom-shaped mixed-cell melanoma.

CONCLUSION

Cavitation can occur in ciliary body melanoma and can lead to misinterpretation as a cyst. Cavitary melanoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cystic lesions of the anterior segment.

Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for acute radiation papillopathy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for patients with visually symptomatic acute radiation-induced papillopathy.

METHODS

In a prospective, nonrandomized, single-center case series, intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (4 mg/0.1 mL) was injected through the pars plana using sterile technique in 9 patients with radiation papillopathy after plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma. Status of radiation papillopathy and final visual acuity were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

At the time of diagnosis of the choroidal melanoma, visual acuity was 20/20 to 20/40 (n = 6), 20/60 (n = 2), and 20/100 (n = 1). The mean radiation dose to the optic disk was 6,175 cGy (median, 5,994 cGy; range, 3,571-12,760 cGy). Radiation papillopathy developed a mean of 18 months (median, 17 months; range, 6-33 months) after plaque radiotherapy. In all cases, the choroidal melanoma was regressed, and there was no retinal detachment or neovascularization of the retina, optic disk, or iris. Concomitant radiation maculopathy was found in 8 eyes manifesting as macular edema (n = 8), intraretinal dot hemorrhages (n = 6), intraretinal exudation (n = 6), or nerve fiber layer infarction (n = 3). The radiation papillopathy findings included optic disk hyperemia (n = 9), edema (n = 9), and circumpapillary hemorrhage (n = 8). At the time of diagnosis of radiation papillopathy, visual acuity was 20/70 (n = 1), 20/100 (n = 4), 20/200 (n = 1), and counting fingers (n = 3). At 1 week after injection of triamcinolone acetonide, visual acuity improvement was found in seven patients, and resolution of optic disk hyperemia and edema was noted for four and three patients, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 11 months (median, 9 months; range, 6-19 months), visual acuity was stable or improved in 7 patients, and resolution of optic disk hyperemia and edema was found in all 9 patients. The mean time to improvement in visual acuity by > or =2 lines was 3 weeks (median, 1 week; range, 1-12 weeks). The mean time to complete resolution of radiation papillopathy was 4 months. The two patients with worse final visual acuity also had macular hole and central retinal vein obstruction. The only complication of this therapy was possibly related cataract in three patients.

CONCLUSION

During short-term follow-up, acute radiation-induced papillopathy appears to respond rapidly to intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection with resolution of optic disk hyperemia and edema and modest return of visual acuity. The long-term effects remain unknown.

Photoreceptor loss overlying congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium by optical coherence tomography

OBJECTIVE

To describe the cross-sectional retinal anatomy overlying congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (CHRPE) using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

DESIGN

Retrospective, observational, noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Ten consecutive patients with CHRPE.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures were retinal and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) thickness relative to normal tissue and the status of the retinal layers, in particular the photoreceptor layer.

RESULTS

The median patient age was 36 years (mean, 34 years; range, 7-56 years). The CHRPE was within 6 mm of the optic disc or foveola in all patients. All patients showed retinal thinning and complete photoreceptor loss overlying the CHRPE. The sensory retina measured a mean of 68% of normal thickness (range, 47%-87%). Of the 8 patients with pigmented CHRPE, the CHRPE was 52% thicker than adjacent RPE. All 8 patients with pigmented CHRPE showed moderate relative shadowing of the underlying choroid. The 2 patients with nonpigmented CHRPE, presumed to represent large lacunae with thin CHRPE rim, showed absent RPE and increased transmission of light, not shadowing, into the choroid by OCT. Both patients with visual field testing showed a visual field defect corresponding to the photoreceptor loss.

CONCLUSIONS

Using OCT, overlying retinal thinning and photoreceptor loss directly over CHRPE was found in 10 consecutive patients. These findings likely account for related visual field loss.

INTRAVITREAL TRIAMCINOLONE ACETONIDE FOR RADIATION MACULOPATHY AFTER PLAQUE RADIOTHERAPY FOR CHOROIDAL MELANOMA

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide on patients with visually symptomatic radiation-induced maculopathy after plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma.

DESIGN

In this prospective, nonrandomized, single-center case series of 31 patients with visually symptomatic radiation-induced maculopathy after plaque radiotherapy for choroidal melanoma at the Ocular Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital of Thomas Jefferson University, triamcinolone acetonide (4 mg/1 mL) was injected through the pars plana into the vitreous cavity using sterile technique. Status of radiation maculopathy and final visual acuity were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

At the time of diagnosis of choroidal melanoma, visual acuity was 20/20 to 20/50 in 90% (n = 28), 20/60 to 20/200 in 10% (n = 3), and 20/400 or worse in none of the patients. The mean radiation dose to the foveola was 5,122 cGy (median, 3,280 cGy; range, 1,000-16,100 cGy). Radiation maculopathy developed at a mean of 22 months (median, 16 months; range, 6-96 months) after plaque radiotherapy. In all cases, the choroidal melanoma was regressed, and there was no retinal detachment or neovascularization of the retina, optic disk, or iris. At the time of diagnosis of radiation maculopathy, visual acuity was 20/20 to 20/50 in 19% (6/31), 20/60 to 20/200 in 58% (18/31), and 20/400 or worse in 23% (7/31) of patients. After intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide, visual acuity was stable or improved in 91% (20/22) of patients by 1 month and 45% (14/31) by 6 months. Mean foveal thickness by optical coherence tomography was 417 microm at injection and 207 microm at 1 month and 292 microm at 6 months after injection.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide can stabilize or improve visual acuity in some patients with radiation-induced maculopathy, but its effect might not be lasting.

Review of optical coherence tomography for intraocular tumors

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Optical coherence tomography has assumed an important role in the management of numerous ocular conditions. With regard to ocular oncology, optical coherence tomography can illustrate retinal changes overlying choroidal tumors. Some of these features include photoreceptor loss, intraretinal edema, and retinal thinning overlying choroidal nevus; fresh subretinal fluid with preservation of photoreceptors overlying choroidal melanoma; and intraretinal edema, retinoschisis, and retinal thinning overlying irradiated choroidal melanoma.

RECENT FINDINGS

The optical coherence tomography features of tumors of the retinal pigment epithelium include typical findings of peaked vitreoretinal traction and retinal disorganization with combined hamartoma of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium, full-thickness retinal shadowing with congenital simple hamartoma, and photoreceptor loss and retinal thinning overlying congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium.

SUMMARY

Optical coherence tomography of retinal tumors, such as retinoblastoma and astrocytic hamartoma, reveals full-thickness replacement of the retinal anatomic layers with the tumor and shadowing corresponding to the intralesional calcification. For all intraocular tumors, optical coherence tomography provides valuable information regarding the status of the retina and the retinal pigment epithelium and can be useful in ascertaining reasons for visual loss.