Efficacy of proton therapy in circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas associated with serious retinal detachment

Could a low-dose definitive radiation therapy be the optimal treatment for choroidal hemangioma?

PURPOSE

To determine the efficacy of low-dose intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)/volumetric intensity-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) in the treatment of symptomatic choroidal hemangioma (CH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-three consecutive patients with CH were retrospectively reviewed. All the patients underwent IMRT/VMAT as a unique treatment. Resolution of subretinal fluid (SRF), improvement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and reduction in tumor thickness were compared before and after radiotherapy.

RESULTS

After definitive radiotherapy, 100 % of SRF and 76.7 % of exudative retinal detachment were resolved. 56.6 % of BCVA improvement in more than two lines was observed. The mean best-corrected visual acuity was 20/280 (range, 20/1200-20/40) at diagnosis and 20/100 (range, 20/1200-20/20) after treatment. The mean tumor thickness decreased significantly from 3.8 mm initially to 1.2 mm after treatment (p < 0.01). 66.0 % of patients were delivered with 21.6 Gy (range, 21.6-42 Gy), 84.9 % of fractional dose was 1.8 Gy (range, 1.8-2 Gy). No radiation-induced keratitis, retinopathy, or optic neuropathy were observed. Initial vision (p = 0.042), duration time of vision (p = 0.004), and tumor thickness (p = 0.049) were prognostic factors for vision recovery.

CONCLUSION

Low-dose IMRT/VMAT could effectively induce involution of the CH, with reduction of subretinal fluid and relief of damage to the neurosensory retina, which is an effective treatment mode for CH.

New insights on circumscribed choroidal hemangioma: "bench to bedside"

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma is a rare vascular hamartoma of the choroid, presenting as a red-orange mass at the posterior pole on fundoscopic examination. Despite its benign origin, associated complications such as subretinal fluid, serous retinal detachment, retinoschisis and neovascular glaucoma may lead to serious visual impairment in more than half patients. Because of its similarity to amelanotic choroidal melanoma and choroidal metastasis, differential diagnosis is still challenging for specialists. Multimodal imaging such as ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, optical coherence tomography, and optical coherence tomography angiography guides the clinician to the correct diagnosis and the proper follow-up. Treatment is indicated in symptomatic cases in order to resolve exudation and improve visual acuity. Treatment options include photocoagulation, transpupillary thermotherapy, radiation therapy, photodynamic therapy and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. Currently, photodynamic therapy is the treatment of choice due to its effectiveness and safety. The purpose of this review is to describe the latest knowledge in the etiopathogenesis of the circumscribed choroidal hemangioma, the most recent multimodal imaging findings, and the available treatment options.

A Case of Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma Treated With Proton Beam Therapy and Followed Up for 15 Years

Circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas are rare and benign tumors but often have a progressive course and are complicated by retinal detachment and glaucoma. The effectiveness of external radiation for large tumors that are difficult to treat with photodynamic therapy was recently reported; however, few studies have conducted long-term follow-ups. We encountered a case of localized choroidal hemangioma that was treated with proton beam therapy and followed up for 15 years. A 37-year-old man was diagnosed with a 10 × 4 mm circumscribed choroidal hemangioma involving the macular area with retinal detachment. Proton beam therapy was performed at 26.4 Gy relative biological effectiveness (RBE) in 8 fractions. The choroidal hemangioma gradually shrank over three years, and the retinal detachment also improved. A cataract developed on the affected side 11 years after irradiation, and eye coordination issues developed 15 years after irradiation. Glaucoma was not observed during the follow-up period; however, visual acuity did not recover, and the patient developed light perception. Although vision was not preserved, proton beam therapy effectively shrank the tumor and maintained quality of life.

Safety and Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma: A Systematic Review

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) is a sort of non-malignant hamartomatous tumor that occurs in the choroidal layer of the eye. It is a rare condition that affects people between their second and fourth decades of life, leading to significant deterioration of vision. One of the most catastrophic consequences of CCH is exudative retinal detachment (ERD), which has a severe impact on vision. This review aims to comprehensively assess the safety and efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using verteporfin as a therapeutic approach. Using the eligibility criteria, we analyzed the findings of 18 published articles from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane. The standard PDT protocol was used in all included studies, except two (one used half-dose, the other one used the double-dose) with an average of 1-2 sessions. PDT induced substantial tumor regression, with a mean thickness range from 0 to 2.3 mm. However, this contrasted with a previous study that reported a thickness of 3.46 mm as an indication of PDT failure. The mean tumor diameter varied from 4.8 mm to total tumor flattening. A suboptimal effect with a mean diameter ranging from 6mm to 8mm was found in two clinical studies. Significant improvement in vision was observed during the last follow-up, ranging from a normalization of Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) 20/20 to 20/80; counting finger vision persisted in two patients even after treatment. PDT successfully achieved complete subretinal fluid (SRF) resolution in 14 studies and resolved ERD in nine articles. Most studies did not report serious adverse events, but some reported macular atrophy, microcystic degeneration of the retina, transient visual disturbances, Retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) metaplasia, and cystic degeneration of the retina. This systemic review demonstrated PDT's effectiveness and safety as a first-line management modality for CCH. Photodynamic therapy efficiently induced tumor regression, resulting in a notable reduction in both tumor diameter and thickness, with optimal efficacy to improve vision and resolution of the consequences of CCH, such as SRF and ERD.

Half-fluence photodynamic therapy in peripapillary circumscribed choroidal haemangiomas

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of half-fluence photodynamic therapy (PDT) as treatment for symptomatic peripapillary circumscribed choroidal haemangiomas (CCHs).

METHODS

In this prospective, interventional case series; 11 patients with symptomatic peripapillary CCHs presenting to a single centre were treated with half-fluence PDT using verteporfin 6 mg/m2 with fluence of 25 mJ/cm2 (standard is 50 mJ/cm2) and other standard settings. Patients were evaluated at baseline, four weeks, twelve weeks and twenty-four weeks post-PDT treatment with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ultrasonography, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), visual evoked potential and angiographic studies.

RESULTS

Eleven patients with peripapillary CCHs received half-fluence PDT. The BCVA significantly improved to 0.558 ± 0.118 at four weeks post-treatment (P = 0.014), to 0.494 ± 0.114 at twelve weeks (P = 0.006) and 0.441 ± 0.125 at twenty-four weeks (P = 0.007) from baseline levels of 1.017 ± 0.075 on log MAR scales. Similar improvement was observed in central macular thickness (CMT) of 78.50 ± 13.73 μm (P = 0.001) at four weeks; 114.70 ± 27.73 μm (P = 0.003) at twelve weeks and 174.60 ± 23.13 μm (P = 0.001) at twenty-four weeks post-treatment. A single session of re-treatment was required in 18% (n = 2) of patients which also showed complete resolution at last follow-up. No complications were observed without any significant change in retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness at six months follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Half-fluence PDT can be an effective and safe treatment option for peripapillary CCHs which results in both anatomical and functional improvements with no observable complications.

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma: Comparative efficacy of transpupillary thermotherapy, indocyanine green-enhanced transpupillary thermotherapy, and photodynamic therapy and analysis of baseline clinical features effecting treatment outcomes

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy of transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT), indocyanine green-enhanced TTT (ICG-TTT), and photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the management of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) and to investigate the baseline clinical features effecting treatment outcomes METHODS: Retrospective review of clinical records of 60 eyes with CCH which underwent TTT (25), ICG-TTT (22), or PDT (13). Main study outcomes were 1) final visual acuity (VA) ≤20/200, 2) <2 Snellen lines VA increase, 3) persistent subretinal fluid (SRF), and 4) <20% decrease in tumor thickness.

RESULTS

Multivariable factors associated with final VA ≤20/200 included longer duration of symptoms (p = 0.015), lower initial VA (p = 0.030), and presence of retinoschisis overlying the tumor (p = 0.047). Multivariable factors for <2 Snellen lines VA increase were longer duration of symptoms (p = 0.018) and previous failed treatment (p = 0.003). By multivariable analysis, the only significant factor for persistent SRF was the presence of retinoschisis (p = 0.001). Multivariable factors associated with a decrease in tumor thickness by <20% were smaller initial tumor thickness (p = 0.045) and presence of retinoschisis (p = 0.014). By Pearson Chi-Square/Fisher Exact Test, final VA ≤20/200 rates (48.0%, 13.6%, 30.8% respectively, p = 0.041) and VA improvement by <2 lines rates (64.0%, 27.3%, 38.5% respectively, p = 0.036) were significantly different between TTT, ICG-TTT, and PDT groups. However, by post hoc analysis, ICG-TTT yielded statistically better outcomes compared to TTT with respect to final visual acuity (VA) ≤20/200 (p = 0.012) and <2 Snellen lines VA increase (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Longer symptom duration, previous failed treatment, lower initial VA, and presence of retinoschisis were risk factors for worse visual outcomes. Eyes with retinoschisis displayed more SRF persistence after treatment. Smaller initial tumor thickness and presence of retinoschisis were risk factors for <20% decrease in tumor thickness.

Choroidal Hemangioma Treated with Photodynamic Therapy Using Verteporfin: Report of a Case

Purpose

To report the results of treatment of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma with a single application of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin according to the Treatment of Age-related Macular Degeneration with Photodynamic Therapy study.

Methods

A 44-year-old man with unilateral decreased vision and macular subretinal fluid secondary to a circumscribed choroidal hemangioma diagnosed by fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography and ultrasonography underwent PDT with verteporfin therapy.

Results

One year after PDT, subretinal fluid was absent and visual acuity improved.

Conclusions

The results obtained in this case are in keeping with previously reported results; however, future randomized studies are necessary to evaluate and standardize different infusion times in order to obtain maximum efficacy of treatment.

Analysis of Long-term Outcomes of Radiotherapy and Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy for Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma

PURPOSE

To determine the long-term therapeutic outcome for different treatments of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH).

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SUBJECTS

Patients with newly diagnosed CCH.

METHODS

Observation, verteporfin (Visudyne) photodynamic therapy (PDT), lens-sparing external beam radiotherapy (LS-EBRT), or plaque brachytherapy.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline and throughout follow-up, tumor dimensions, and OCT central thickness (where available) at baseline and throughout follow-up were recorded.

RESULTS

There were 60 treatment-naïve consecutive cases with CCH between January 2000 and June 2014; 42 (70%) received treatment. These were LS-EBRT (23/60 [38%]; mean follow-up, 45.5 months), PDT (16/60 [27%]; mean follow-up, 38 months), and plaque radiotherapy (3/60 [5%]; mean follow-up, 92 months). Macular location, mottled or orange pigment, and absence of drusen were significantly more frequent in the treatment group. In the LS-EBRT group, median thickness reduction on ultrasound B scan was 1.6 mm (mean ± standard deviation, 1.65±1.6; range, -6.5 to +0.7). The mean ± standard deviation BCVA gain was 0.22±0.34, with >3 Snellen lines in 48% of cases. Kaplan-Meier estimates were 80% for any gain and 40% for >3 Snellen lines gain at 5 years. In the PDT group, the median decrease in thickness was 0.95 mm (mean ± standard deviation, 1.0±0.8; range, -2.5 to +0.2). The mean ± standard deviation BCVA gain was at 0.3±0.51, with >3 Snellen lines in 30% of cases. Kaplan-Meier estimates were 93% for any gain and 68% for >3 Snellen lines at 5 years. Double versus single duration PDT had more favorable outcomes with a greater reduction in tumor thickness (P = 0.04), central retinal thickness (P = 0.02), and improvement in visual acuity (median, 0.33 vs -0.05). There was no difference in decrease in tumor thickness or BCVA gain between the LS-EBRT and PDT groups. With plaque brachytherapy, the mean decrease in thickness was 2.5 mm, but BCVA loss of >2 Snellen lines was noted in all 3 cases at the end of follow-up. Radiation complications developed in 10 of 23 cases (43.5%) from the LS-EBRT group and 2 of 3 cases (67%) from the plaque brachytherapy group.

CONCLUSIONS

LS-EBRT is equivalent to PDT in CCH management for post-treatment BCVA and tumor thickness reduction. The risk of LS-EBRT and plaque brachytherapy was late radiation-related complications. Double duration PDT was more favorable than single duration.

Sturge-Weber Syndrome (Encephalotrigeminal Angiomatosis): Recent Advances and Future Challenges

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a congenital, sporadically occurring, neurocutaneous syndrome that presents classically with port-wine stain, leptomeningeal angiomas, and glaucoma. The systemic implications of SWS are vast and involve not only ophthalmic manifestations but also dermatologic, neurologic, and oral manifestations. Neuroimaging, in particular, plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of this disease. Recent discoveries have been made regarding the genetic pathogenesis of SWS. In addition, recent advances have been made in the management of the 2 most common ophthalmic manifestations of SWS: diffuse choroidal hemangioma and glaucoma. Despite these new contributions to the field, many challenges still remain. The management of diffuse choroidal hemangioma is wide ranging and includes photodynamic therapy, brachytherapy, radiotherapy, and antivascular endothelial growth factor injections, but all have had limited or varied success. Although there have been recent advances in knowledge and technique, the management of glaucoma is extremely complex, given the high surgical risks for complications and a poor response rate to medical therapy. Further studies are critical to maximize our knowledge of this difficult disease.

Encephalotrigeminal Angiomatosis (Sturge-Weber Syndrome, Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome): A Review

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) (encephalotrigeminal angiomatosis) is a phakomatosis associated with port-wine stains of the face, seizures, mental retardation, and usually ipsilateral meningeal vascular malformations. The classic form affects leptomeninges, eyes, and face. Although the precise etiology and pathogenesis are unclear, the postulated defect is primary venous dysplasia with failure of the primordial embryonic venous plexus to regress. A spontaneous somatic mutation in fibroblast fibronectin gene expression in the vascular malformation may occur during embryonic development. Ocular involvement is characterized by conjunctival, episcleral, retinal, and choroidal vascular abnormalities. The vascular lesions have been inconsistently described as angiomas, hemangiomas, and vascular malformations. Based on the endothelial cellular activity, they can be considered vascular malformations (or port-wine stains), which never regress spontaneously. Congenital, developmental, and adult-onset glaucoma are often seen when the malformations involve the distribution of the first branch of the trigeminal nerve.Both mechanical and vascular causes have been proposed to account for the development of glaucoma. The mechanical theory is based on obstruction of aqueous outflow secondary to developmental anterior chamber angle abnormalities, and the vascular theory is based primarily on elevated episcleral venous pressure. Management of glaucoma in patients with SWS is often challenging and is aimed at controlling intraocular pressure and preventing progressive visual loss and blindness. It also carries an increased risk for surgical complications. This review summarizes the literature regarding the genetics, clinical features, and management of ocular complications of SWS with special focus on glaucoma.

Vascular tumors of the retina and choroid: diagnosis and treatment

The vascular tumors of the retina and choroid comprise a diverse group of congenital and acquired lesions. The major vascular tumors of the retina include retinal capillary hemangioma, cavernous hemangioma of the retina, retinal vasoproliferative tumor, and racemose hemangiomatosis of the retina or Wyburn–Mason syndrome. Choroidal vascular tumors include circumscribed choroidal hemangioma and diffuse choroidal hemangioma. While classified as benign, visual symptoms secondary to exudative retinal detachment and a variety of other mechanisms are common and are a major source of long-term visual disability. While many therapeutic modalities exist, treatment of symptomatic cases can be challenging. Of particular importance, many of the vascular tumors of the retina and choroid have significant associations with systemic disease. As ocular symptoms are often the most common presenting disease manifestation, the ophthalmologist plays an important role in accurate and early diagnosis. The ability to initiate prompt screening and treatment in appropriate cases is critical. In the following article, the key clinical and diagnostic features of the major retinal and choroidal vascular tumors, their systemic associations, and the literature pertaining to the most currently available treatment strategies are reviewed.

Standard versus Bolus Photodynamic Therapy in Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangioma: Functional Outcomes

Purpose

TO compare standard versus bolus photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH).

Methods

Twenty consecutive cases of CCH were included in this prospective randomized study. Each patient was randomly assigned to receive either standard PDT (10-minute 6 mg/mq2 verteporfin infusion; treatment at 15 min; 50 J/cm2; 83 s) or bolus PDT (6 mg/mq2 verteporfin infusion bolus in 1 min; treatment at 5 min; 100 J/cm2; 166 s). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, fluorescein, and indocyanine green angiography were performed at baseline and during follow-up. Retinal sensitivity was tested with microperimetry before and after treatment. Follow-up was longer than 32 months.

Results

Mean follow-up was 58±11 months. All cases (100%) showed clinical regression of the treated lesion. Neuroretinal and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes were found in 9 (90%) bolus PDT over treated area. No similar RPE changes were found in patients treated with standard PDT. There was a no statistically significant difference in BCVA outcome between the 2 groups (p=0.078). Microperimetry revealed reduced sensitivity over the treated area in 7 bolus PDT vs 1 in standard treated eyes (p=0.008).

Conclusions

Both standard and bolus PDT induce regression of symptomatic CCH. Bolus PDT may cause RPE and retinal changes associated with reduced retinal sensitivity.

Photodynamic therapy of choroidal hemangioma in sturge-weber syndrome, with a review of treatments for diffuse and circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas

We report three new cases of patients with Sturge-Weber Syndrome and symptomatic retinal detachments from diffuse choroidal hemangiomas successfully treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) and review medical literature on the available treatment options for choroidal hemangiomas. All patients were treated with a single session of PDT with verteporfin infused at a concentration of 6 mg/m(2) and treated for 83 seconds with 689-nm Zeiss laser that was delivered with total energy level of 50 J/cm(2) with an intensity of 600 mW/cm(2). The exudative retinal detachment (RD) and macular edema completely resolved in all cases by 1-4 months after PDT treatment. Visual acuity improved in all three cases with diminished tumor size in the areas of treatment. One case was followed for 5 months, another for 2 years, and the third case for 6 years, with no recurrence of exudative RD. PDT is an effective treatment option for visual deterioration from exudative retinal detachment in patients with diffuse choroidal hemangiomas.

Gamma knife radiosurgery for choroidal hemangioma

PURPOSE

Patients with choroidal hemangioma (CH), a benign ocular hamartoma, frequently presents with visual disturbance as a result of exudative retinal detachment (RD), which originates in subretinal fluid accumulation. We report our experience using the Leksell Gamma Knife in the management of symptomatic CH.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Seven patients with symptomatic CH (circumscribed form in 3 patients and diffuse form in 4) were treated with the Leksell Gamma Knife at our institution during a 7-year period. All patients presented with exudative RD involving the macula that resulted in severe visual deterioration. The prescription dose to the target margin was 10 Gy in all cases. The mean tumor volume receiving the prescription dose was 536 mm3 (range, 151-1,057). The clinical data were analyzed in a retrospective fashion after a mean follow-up of 34.4 months (range, 9-76).

RESULTS

The resolution of exudative RD was achieved within 6 months, and the visual acuity of the affected eye had improved at the latest follow-up examination (p=.018) in all patients. No recurrence of exudative RD occurred. Thinning of the CHs was observed in most patients; however, symptomatic radiation toxicity had not developed in any of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic CHs can be safely and effectively managed with Gamma Knife radiosurgery using a marginal dose of 10 Gy.

Treatment review of sight threatening circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

AIM

To describe our clinical experience in treating circumscribed choroidal haemangioma (CCH) in a tertiary referral centre over a fifteen year period prior to photodynamic therapy.

METHODS

The departmental database and photographic records of a tertiary referral center were used to identify patients who were treated for CCH between 1992 and 2007. Their case records were reviewed.

RESULTS

Visual acuity improved (>2 Snellen lines) in eleven patients (69%) remained stable in one patient (6%) and deteriorated in four patients (25%). Six of the seven treated with brachytherapy and three of the four treated with transpupillary thermotherapy achieved better visual acuity after treatment. 86% of patients treated within six months of onset of symptoms and 50% of patients treated after six months of onset of symptoms noted an improvement in visual acuity. Only one patient in our series had a final VA of 6/60 or worse. Mean follow-up was thirty-five months.

CONCLUSION

Visual outcome is better when treatment is performed within 6 months of symptoms. The majority of patients achieved an improvement in visual acuity without any adverse effect following treatment.

Gamma knife radiosurgery for choroidal hemangioma

PURPOSE

To determine the feasibility of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) in the treatment of symptomatic choroidal hemangioma (CH).

DESIGN

Observational case series.

METHODS

Three patients who had CH were treated with GKS. Ophthalmologic examinations revealed submacular fluid collection and retinal detachment associated with CH in all cases. GKS was performed as an initial treatment in two cases of circumscribed CH and as secondary treatment after failure of photocoagulation in the other diffuse CH.

RESULTS

The follow-up period ranged from 18 to 36 months, and visual acuity of the affected eyes was improved in all cases. The volume of CHs and submacular fluid collection were decreased. There were no adverse effects of radiation such as retinopathy or optic neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

GKS may be a useful alternative treatment for symptomatic CHs that are difficult to be managed with a standard therapeutic option such as photocoagulation.

Photodynamic therapy of circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

AIM

To evaluate efficacy of verteporfin ocular photodynamic therapy (PDT) in treatment of 10 patients with a symptomatic circumscribed choroidal haemangioma.

DESIGN

Prospective non-randomised, interventional case series and critical review of previously published studies.

METHODS

10 consecutive patients (seven primary, two failed transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT), and one failed external beam radiotherapy) with symptomatic circumscribed choroidal haemangioma were treated using verteporfin 6 mg/m2 given as an intravenous infusion over 10 minutes. Diode laser (690 nm) with an intensity of 600 mW/cm2 for 83 seconds (50 J/cm2) was applied 5 minutes after completion of infusion. Single or multiple partially overlapping spots were applied based on the tumour basal dimensions. Periodic follow up with ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography, and angiographic studies was performed.

RESULTS

All 10 patients showed evidence of regression with flattening of tumour, resolution of subretinal fluid, and reduction of choroidal vasculature on angiograms. The visual acuity either improved or remained stable in eight (80%) patients. Visual loss due to delayed choroidal atrophy was seen in two patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Although verteporfin PDT is an effective treatment for management of symptomatic circumscribed choroidal haemangioma, delayed treatment related effects can lead to visual loss.

[Five years of proton therapy of eye neoplasms at the Hahn-Meitner Institute, Berlin]

Eye tumors (choroidal melanomas, iris melanomas, and choroidal hemangiomas) are being treated with 68 MeV protons since 1998 at the Ion Beam Laboratory of the Hahn-Meitner Institute of Berlin (Germany's first proton therapy center), in cooperation with the Charité University Hospital in Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin. The proton beam, generated via a combination of Van de Graaff accelerator and cyclotron, is prepared by passive shaping for conformal tumor irradiation. A digital X-ray verification of the tumor location with the patient in sitting position limits the position uncertainties to a maximum of 0.3 mm. The treatment planning is performed using the program EYEPLAN. OCTOPUS, a CT-based planning program developed in cooperation with the German Cancer Research Center of Heidelberg, is under pre-clinical testing. Thus far, more than 400 patients have been irradiated. The first results are comparable to those obtained in other proton therapy centers. At the end of 2002, the University Hospital of Essen has also become a cooperation partner of the Hahn-Meitner Institute.

Transpupillary thermotherapy in the management of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma

Laser photocoagulation and various radiation therapy methods have been used in the treatment of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma that produce visual loss. Recently, transpupillary thermotherapy has been employed in the management of choroidal hemangioma. Thirty-six cases of choroidal hemangioma treated with transpupillary thermotherapy are reviewed. Twenty-eight cases were reported in the literature and 10 cases were managed by the author. Transpupillary thermotherapy has been used as a primary treatment (36 cases) or secondary treatment (2 cases) for choroidal hemangioma. The goal of transpupillary thermotherapy is to achieve resolution of exudative detachment of the fovea and improvement of vision. In all eyes the foveal detachment subsided. In 26 eyes having pretreatment visual acuity >or=0.05 (20/400), the visual acuity increased in 20 (77%) eyes and remained unchanged in 6 (23%) eyes. After transpupillary thermotherapy, 16 (42%) cases showed complete regression, 20 (53%) demonstrated partial regression, and in 2 (5%) there was no change in tumor thickness at follow-ups ranging from 2 to 44 months. Complications of transpupillary thermotherapy of choroidal hemangioma included cystoid macular edema (3 eyes), preretinal fibrosis (2 eyes), focal iris atrophy (3 eyes), and retinal vascular occlusion (1 eye). Although the follow-up in many studies is limited, transpupillary thermotherapy has not been associated with any significant complications.

Efficacy of photodynamic therapy in circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

PURPOSE

To report efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of three cases of juxtafoveal circumscribed choroidal haemangioma.

METHODS

Data on three patients (two primary, and one failed TTT) treated with verteporfin, 6 mg/m2 given as i.v. infusion over 10 min. Diode laser (690 nm) with an intensity of 600 mW/cm2 for 83 s (50 mJ/cm2) was applied 5 min after completion of infusion. Overlapping multiple spots (2500 microm) were applied to cover the entire surface of the tumour. The mean pretreatment tumour size was 7 mm (base) x 2.2 (thickness) mm. Periodic follow-up with ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography, and angiographic studies was performed.

RESULTS

All three cases showed complete regression of the tumour with resolution of subretinal fluid, flattening of tumour, and absence of choroidal vasculature on ICG. The visual acuity either improved or remained stable in all three cases. The overlying retinal vessels remained unaffected. There were no ocular or systemic complications.

CONCLUSIONS

PDT is an effective treatment for management of juxtafoveal circumscribed choroidal haemangioma.

Stereotactic radiotherapy of symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas

PURPOSE

To determine feasibility of low-dose stereotactic radiotherapy in the treatment of symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangioma.

DESIGN

Prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Five consecutive patients with perifoveolar and peripapillary circumscribed choroidal hemangioma and visual symptoms from exudative retinal detachment.

METHODS

A dose of 20 Gy was delivered stereotactically with linear accelerator. Tumor dimensions were determined by B-scan ultrasonography.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Resolution of subretinal fluid, best-corrected visual acuity, and reduction in tumor height.

RESULTS

Median tumor height at baseline was 2.8 mm (range, 2.0-4.2 mm). Two tumors were subfoveolar, two were juxtafoveolar, and one was extrafoveolar. Cystic macular edema and subretinal fibrosis were present in both eyes with subfoveolar tumor. Exudative retinal detachment resolved within a median of 5 months (response rate, 100%; 95% CI, 48%-100%). Median best-corrected visual acuity was 20/50 (range, 20/22-20/100) at diagnosis and 20/25 (range, 20/20-20/60) 20 months after treatment. Tumor height had decreased a median of 24% (range, 0%-31%) by 6 months and 29% (range, 9%-59%) by 20 months. Secondary retinal pigment epithelial mottling associated with tumor regression occurred in two patients. One eye developed a paracentral scotoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Stereotactic radiotherapy can be targeted precisely enough to induce regression of subretinal fluid from circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas.

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma

Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma is an uncommon, benign vascular tumor manifesting as an orange-red mass in the posterior pole of the eye. Serous retinal detachment accounts for decreased vision in most patients. Diagnosis of this tumor is challenging with many patients initially misdiagnosed with choroidal melanoma or metastasis. Several ancillary tests such as ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and magnetic resonance imaging help differentiate this tumor from other simulating lesions. Asymptomatic lesions should be observed, but visually threatening or visually impairing lesions require treatment. Photodynamic therapy, laser photocoagulation, and transpupillary thermotherapy may be used for primary management of this tumor. Patients who fail to respond to previous treatment or those with extensive serous retinal detachment can be treated using radiotherapeutic modalities. Long interval between onset of symptoms and treatment, poor visual acuity at presentation, and presence of chronic retinal or retinal pigment epithelial changes are associated with poor long-term vision.

Photodynamic therapy of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas (CCH) of the posterior pole.

DESIGN

Prospective, consecutive, noncomparative case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Ten eyes of 10 patients (six males and four females; age range, 38-64 years) reporting visual impairment caused by intraocular CCH. Follow-up was 7 to 16 months.

METHODS

Photodynamic therapy was applied by Zeiss laser (Visulas 6905, Carl Zeiss-Meditech AG, Jeud Germany) emitting a light at 689 nm for photosensitization and by using verteporfin (Visudyne; Novartis Ophthalmics AG, Basel, Switzerland) at a dose of 6 mg/m(2) body surface administered intravenously before treatment. The diameter of the treatment spot was calculated on early frames of pretreatment indocyanine green angiography; the maximum treatment spot diameter was 6000 micro m using a Mainster wide-field lens (Ocular Instruments Inc., Bellevue, WA USA). In the case of peripapillary CCH, the laser spot was applied at a distance of 200 micro m from the optic disc edge. A laser beam was applied to the retina 15 minutes after the start of the infusion. Two different treatment procedures were used according to the height of the lesion. A radiant exposure of 100 J/cm(2) with an exposure time of 186 seconds was applied to lesions larger than 2 mm. For lesions smaller than 2 mm, a radiant exposure of 75 J/cm(2) with an exposure time of 125 seconds was used.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual outcomes, pretreatment findings, and final findings were evaluated using biomicroscopy, fluorescein angiography (FA), indocyanine green angiography (ICGA), and ultrasound.

RESULTS

After a follow-up of 7 to 16 months, FA and ICGA verified the nonperfusion of the vascular channels of the tumor in the treated areas. No retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) changes were observed in the patients who had undergone two PDT treatments, whereas minimal alterations were detected in two of the four patients who had undergone three treatment sessions. Angiographic cystoid macular edema and exudative macular detachment had completely regressed in all cases. Minimal intraretinal edema was observed on the FA frames in two cases. Ultrasound examination found no measurable tumor height in six (60%) cases and a marked reduction in the remaining four cases, even after one treatment (post treatment tumor height range, 0.86-1.82 mm). An improvement in visual acuity (one to six lines on the Early Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart) was observed in all the cases. In four cases, the visual acuity returned to 20/20, of which three were extrafoveal and one was subfoveal with visual impairment caused by secondary exudative macular detachment without significant RPE alterations. Also in longstanding subfoveal cases, a marked visual acuity improvement was detected resulting from the disappearance of subretinal or intraretinal fluid, even if functional results were limited by pre-existing RPE alterations. In all cases no damage to retinal vessels was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Photodynamic therapy is a minimally invasive but effective method of treatment for CCH and may be considered as a treatment of choice, especially in patients with foveal location of the tumor. Because of its safety and repeatability, this technique can be used to treat frequent recurrences of the tumor.

Photodynamic therapy using verteporfin in circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

AIM

To investigate the safety and efficacy of photodynamic therapy with verteporfin in patients with choroidal haemangioma.

METHODS

A non-randomised, prospective clinical investigation of 19 patients with symptomatic circumscribed choroidal haemangioma was performed. Unsuccessful pretreatment (external beam irradiation, laser photocoagulation) was performed in four patients. Patients were included when (1) subretinal exudation involving the fovea, (2) a decrease in visual function, and (3) additional symptoms (for example, metamorphopsia) were present. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) was performed with verteporfin at a concentration of 6 mg/m(2) body surface area and a light dose of 100 J/cm(2) at 692 nm.

RESULTS

The mean follow up time was 10.6 months (2-24 months). The mean number of treatment sessions was 2.15 (range 1-5). Visual acuity improved by at least one line in 73.3%, by at least two lines in 42.1%, was stable in 21.1%, and decreased by one line in 5.2% of the patients. Exudation was completely resolved in 94.8% of the cases. Regression of tumour height was documented in all 19 tumours. Patients receiving any pretreatment before PDT, a visual acuity of 0.1 and less, a history of more than 30 months, and no significant response after the first PDT session, did not show any significant improvement. Cox regression analysis revealed that the number of PDT treatment sessions was inversely associated with the improvement in visual acuity of at least two lines. No recurrences and no local or systemic side effects were observed during the follow up time.

CONCLUSION

PDT using verteporfin is a safe and effective therapy for the treatment of symptomatic choroidal haemangioma even in tumours located beneath the fovea.

External beam irradiation therapy for choroidal haemangiomas. Visual and anatomical results after a dose of 20 to 25 Gy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual and anatomic results of radiation therapy in ten patients with choroidal haemangiomas.

METHODS

Nine patients with circumscribed choroidal haemangiomas and one with diffuse choroidal haemangioma have been reviewed retrospectively. They were treated by lens-sparing external beam radiation therapy (20--24 Gy) (9 eyes) and plaque brachytherapy (25 Gy) (1 eye), respectively.

RESULTS

The visual acuity improved by two lines or more in 8 of 10 eyes. No eyes showed deterioration of visual acuity. In all cases the retinal detachment showed complete resolution. A regression in tumour thickness was observed in all cases, and a reduction of anisometropia in cases with submacular infiltration by the tumour. During follow-up (0.4--8.8 years) there were no signs of radiation cataract, retinopathy or optic neuropathy.

CONCLUSIONS

External beam radiation (20--25 Gy) is a reasonable alternative for treatment of symptomatic choroidal haemangiomas.

Randomized trial of radiation for age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To assess external beam radiation efficacy for subfoveal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration.

METHODS

All patients were evaluated in the same institution. In this prospective trial, 27 eyes (27 patients) with subfoveal neovascularization associated with age-related macular degeneration were randomized to either single fraction radiation (750 centigray) or observation. Endpoints were assessed by fluorescein angiography and Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity. Examiners were masked to patient treatment status. Parametric and nonparametric statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were entered into the trial with a mean age of 76 years (range, 64 to 89) and a mean follow-up of 17 months (range, 7 to 32). The visual acuity loss was slightly less in the irradiated group, a finding of borderline significance (P < .046). There was no significant difference in fluorescein angiographic evidence of subretinal neovascular membrane change in the control group vs the irradiated group.

CONCLUSIONS

External beam radiation, at this dose and fractionation, did not appear harmful. There was slightly less visual loss in irradiated eyes. No difference in fluorescein angiographic characteristics of subfoveal neovascularization size or progression in eyes with age-related macular degeneration was noted.