Saudi Journal of Ophthalmology

Saudi Journal of Ophthalmology

Volume 27, Issue 3, July–September 2013, Pages 151-157
Saudi Journal of Ophthalmology

Ocular Oncology Update
Proton beam radiotherapy of uveal melanoma

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjopt.2013.06.014Get rights and content
Under a Creative Commons license
open access

Abstract

Proton beam radiotherapy of uveal melanoma can be administered as primary treatment, as salvage therapy for recurrent tumor, and as neoadjuvant therapy prior to surgical resection. The physical properties of proton beams make it possible to deliver high-doses of radiation to the tumor with relative sparing of adjacent tissues. This form of therapy is effective for a wider range of uveal melanoma than any other modality, providing exceptionally-high rates of local tumor control. This is particularly the case with diffuse iris melanomas, many of which are unresectable. The chances of survival, ocular conservation, visual preservation and avoidance of iatrogenic morbidity depend greatly on the tumor size, location and extent. When treating any side-effects and/or complications, it is helpful to consider whether these are the result of collateral damage or persistence of the irradiated tumor (‘toxic tumor syndrome’).

Keywords

Proton beam radiotherapy
Uveal melanoma
Recurrent tumor
Neoadjuvant therapy
Mortality

Cited by (0)

Peer review under responsibility of Saudi Ophthalmological Society, King Saud University.

  1. Download : Download high-res image (33KB)
  2. Download : Download full-size image