Incidence of Strabismus Post-Plaque Brachytherapy in Patients With Uveal Melanoma

PURPOSE

To determine the incidence and type of strabismus in patients with uveal melanoma treated with plaque brachytherapy.

DESIGN

Multicenter, retrospective incidence estimation study.

METHODS

A total of 438 eyes of 438 patients with uveal melanoma treated with plaque brachytherapy between October 2011 and May 2021. Intervention was Iodine 125, and Palladium 103 plaque brachytherapy. The variables reviewed included incidence of nonresolving strabismus post-plaque brachytherapy, type of strabismus developed, extraocular muscles operated, and modality of treatment received.

RESULTS

A total of 438 patients underwent plaque brachytherapy treatment for uveal melanoma. Eleven patients developed strabismus post-plaque brachytherapy (2.5%, n = 11/438). Of these patients, 5 (1.1%, n = 5/438) developed strabismus immediately postoperation. Specifically, 2 patients (0.5%, n = 2/438) developed strabismus immediately postoperation due to slipped muscles, 2 patients (0.5%, n = 2/438) due to decompensated phorias, and 1 patient (0.5%, n = 1/438) due to a fibrotic muscle. Six patients (1.4%, n = 6/438) developed late-onset sensory strabismus. A total of 355 patients (81.1%, n = 355/438) had their extraocular muscles disinserted during surgery, with the lateral rectus being the most common, accounting for 45.4% (n = 161/355), followed by the superior rectus at 26.8% (n = 95/355). Strabismus surgery was the most common treatment modality, comprising 72.7% (n = 8/11) of patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of strabismus after plaque brachytherapy treatment for uveal melanoma was low and primarily classified as late-onset sensory strabismus. Previous studies may underestimate the long-term incidence of strabismus after plaque brachytherapy by focusing primarily on strabismus present immediately postoperatively.

Survival of patients with recurrent uveal melanoma after treatment with radiation therapy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

We evaluated a large cohort of patients treated for local recurrence of choroidal or ciliary body melanomas at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear (MEE) to quantify the risk of melanoma-related mortality associated with recurrence, independent of other risk factors.

METHODS

Patients treated with radiation therapy from 1982 to 2017 were identified through the Uveal Melanoma Registry at MEE. Competing risks regression was performed to investigate the risk of melanoma-related mortality associated with recurrence, treating recurrence as a time-varying covariate.

RESULTS

Of 4196 patients treated, 4043 patients remained recurrence-free and 153 patients experienced a recurrence (median follow-up: 9.9 years). Median time from initial treatment to recurrence was 30.5 months (range: 2.0-238.7). Seventy-nine (69.9%) patients with recurrences and 826 (37.9%) patients in the recurrence-free group died of metastatic uveal melanoma (p<0.001). Median time from initial treatment to melanoma-related death was 4.9 years (1.0-31.8) for patients who developed recurrences and 4.3 years (0.59-33.8) for patients who did not (p=0.17). Five-year and 10-year probabilities of melanoma-related mortality were 9.5% and 15.0%, respectively, in patients without local recurrences compared with 32.0% and 46.6% in patients with recurrences (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

These data confirm previous reports that local recurrence is associated with an increased risk of dying of melanoma and quantify the risk that can be attributed to local recurrence independent of other risk factors. This group of patients should be strongly considered for adjuvant therapies when available.

Retrospective Analysis of Radiation-Induced Complications of Uveal Melanoma Patients Treated With Brachytherapy in the Era of Anti-VEGF

PURPOSE

To associate clinical factors and radiation doses delivered by iodine-125 plaque brachytherapy to visual outcomes and development of radiation-induced ocular complications in patients with uveal melanoma in the era of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed for 225 patients treated with iodine-125 brachytherapy for uveal melanoma. The effects of radiation doses (focal doses, average dose to the entire eye, and integral dose) on visual outcomes and development of radiation complications (radiation retinopathy, radiation optic neuropathy, vitreous hemorrhage, and neovascular glaucoma) were analyzed using multivariate Cox regression snalysis.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 33.6 months (range, 12-105.6 months). Radiation retinopathy was associated with younger age, tumor distance to optic nerve <6 mm, and maximum radiation dose to fovea. Radiation optic neuropathy was associated with White race, tumor distance to optic nerve <6 mm, and integral radiation dose. Vitreous hemorrhage was associated with White race and integral radiation dose. Incidence of neovascular glaucoma was low in our study, with 2 patients (0.9%) developing the complication. Of the 123 patients who developed radiation retinopathy, 82 patients (66.7% of radiation retinopathy patients, 37.3% of total patients) received anti-VEGF injections.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found multiple associations between radiation doses and complications as well as visual outcomes on multivariate analysis. Given that the majority of our patients who developed radiation retinopathy received anti-VEGF injections, our study helps to illustrate the course and progression of radiation-induced complications in the new era of anti-VEGF.

Impact of tumour volume and treatment delay on the outcome after linear accelerator-based fractionated stereotactic radiosurgery of uveal melanoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Primary radiation therapy is used to treat malignant uveal melanoma (UM). We report our single-centre experience with fractionated radiosurgery (fSRS) with a linear accelerator (LINAC) after specific adaptation for small target volumes with HybridArc.

METHODS

From October 2014 to January 2020, 101 patients referred to Dessau City Hospital with unilateral UM underwent fSRS with 50 Gy given in five fractions on five consecutive days. Primary endpoints were local tumour control, globe preservation, metastasis and death. Potential prognostic features were analysed. Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox proportional hazards model and linear models were used for calculations.

RESULTS

The median baseline tumour diameter was 10.0 mm (range, 3.0-20.0 mm), median tumour thickness 5.0 mm (range, 0.9-15.5 mm) and median gross tumour volume (GTV) 0.4 cm³ (range, 0.2-2.6 cm³). After a median follow-up of 32.0 months (range, 2.5-76.0 months), 7 patients (6.9%) underwent enucleation: 4 (4.0%) due to local recurrence and 3 (3.0%) due to radiation toxicities, and 6 patients (5.9%) revealed tumour persistence with a GTV exceeding 1.0 cm³. Of 20 patients (19.8%) who died, 8 (7.9%) were tumour-related deaths. Twelve patients (11.9%) suffered from distant metastasis. GTV showed an impact on all endpoints, and treatment delay was associated with reduced odds of eye preservation.

CONCLUSION

LINAC-based fSRS with static conformal beams combined with dynamic conformal arcs and discrete intensity-modulated radiotherapy results in a high tumour control rate. The tumour volume is the most robust physical prognostic marker for local control and disease progression. Avoiding treatment delay improves outcomes.

Brachytherapy With 15- Versus 20-mm Ruthenium 106 Plaques Without Verification of Plaque Position Is Associated With Local Tumor Recurrence and Death in Posterior Uveal Melanoma

PURPOSE

Brachytherapy with episcleral plaques is the most common primary tumor treatment for uveal melanoma. This study aimed to compare the risk of tumor recurrence and metastatic death between 2 frequently used ruthenium 106 plaque designs: CCB (20.2 mm) and CCA (15.3 mm).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Data were obtained from 1387 consecutive patients treated at St. Erik Eye Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden between 1981 and 2022 (439 with CCA and 948 with CCB plaques). During the period, scleral transillumination was performed to delineate tumor margins before plaque insertion, but accurate plaque positioning was not verified after scleral attachment, and no minimum scleral dose was used.

RESULTS

Patients treated with CCA plaques had smaller tumors than those treated with CCB plaques (mean diameter, 8.6 vs 10.5 mm; P < .001). There were no differences in patient sex, age, tumor distance to the optic disc, tumor apex dose, dose rate, or in rates of ciliary body involvement, eccentric plaque placement, or adjunct transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT). The average difference between plaque and tumor diameter was greater with the CCB plaque, and a smaller difference was an independent predictor of tumor recurrence. The 15-year incidence of tumor recurrence was 28% and 15% after treatment with CCA and CCB plaques, respectively (competing risk analysis, P < .001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed a lower risk for tumor recurrence with CCB plaques (hazard ratio, 0.50). Similarly, patients treated with CCB plaques had a lower risk for uveal melanoma-related mortality (hazard ratio, 0.77). The risk for either outcome was not lower for patients treated with adjunct TTT. Uni- and multivariate time-dependent Cox regressions demonstrated that tumor recurrence was associated with uveal melanoma-related and all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with 20-mm plaques, brachytherapy with 15-mm ruthenium plaques is associated with a higher risk for tumor recurrence and death. These adverse outcomes may be avoided by increasing safety margins and implementing effective methods to verify accurate plaque positioning.

Radioembolisation of liver metastases

This review aims to present contemporary data for SIRT in the treatment of secondary hepatic malignancies including colorectal, neuroendocrine, breast and uveal melanoma.

Stereotactic radiosurgery for medium and large uveal melanoma with a non-invasive eye immobilization device, a single institutional case series

PURPOSE

To investigate the treatment outcome, visual outcome, and adverse effects of five-fraction stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) to medium- and large-sized uveal melanoma with a non-invasive eye immobilization device.

METHODS

Medical records of 14 patients with uveal melanoma receiving SRS with a total dose of 50 Gy in five fractions from 2008 to 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. A non-invasive eye fixation device was used to achieve and monitor eye immobilization.

RESULTS

Local tumor control rates were 85.7% and 75.0% at 2 and 5 years, respectively. The average tumor diameter decreased significantly from 10.0 ± 3.21 mm to 8.36 ± 3.71 mm (p = 0.038) 15 months after SRS, while the average tumor thickness decreased significantly from 5.45 ± 2.21 mm to 4.34 ± 2.29 (p = 0.036) 21 months after SRS. The 5-year metastasis-free survival was 87.5%. The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) deteriorated from logMAR 0.296 at baseline to logMAR 1.112 at the last individual follow-up visits (p < 0.001). Adverse effects of SRS were comparable to those reported with proton-beam radiotherapy or Gamma knife therapy.

CONCLUSION

SRS combined with a non-invasive eye immobilization device is an effective and safe alternative eye-preserving treatment for medium- to large-sized uveal melanoma. BCVA at 3 months may be a predictor for BCVA at 1 year.

Release of Cell-Free Tumor DNA in the Plasma of Uveal Melanoma Patients Under Radiotherapy

Purpose

Uveal melanoma (UM) is a tumor of the eye that metastasizes in approximately half of cases. Prognostic testing requires accessibility to tumor tissue, which is usually not available with eye-preserving therapies. Noninvasive approaches to prognostic testing that provide valuable information for patient care are therefore needed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of circulating cell-free plasma DNA analysis in UM patients undergoing brachytherapy.

Methods

The study recruited 26 uveal melanoma patients referred to the department between February and October 2020. Blood samples were collected at various time points before, during, and after treatment, and deep amplicon sequencing was used to identify oncogenic variant alleles of the GNAQ and GNA11 genes, which serve as indicators for the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA).

Results

The results showed that all patients were ctDNA negative before brachytherapy. In 31% of patients, ctDNA was detected during therapy. The variant allele fraction of GNAQ or GNA11 alleles in ctDNA positive samples ranged from 0.24% to 2% and correlates with the largest basal diameter and thickness of the tumor.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that brachytherapy increases the presence of tumor DNA in the plasma of UM patients. Thus ctDNA analysis may offer a noninvasive approach for prognostic testing. However, efforts are still required to lower the limit of detection for tumor-specific genetic alterations.

Tumor Shape-Specific Brachytherapy Implants by 3D-Printing, Precision Radioactivity Painting, and Biomedical Imaging

In brachytherapy (BT), or internal radiation therapy, cancer is treated by radioactive implants. For instance, episcleral plaques (EPs) for the treatment of uveal melanoma, are designed according to generic population approximations. However, more personalized implants can enhance treatment precision through better adjustment of dose profiles to the contours of cancerous tissues. An original approach integrating biomedical imaging, 3D printing, radioactivity painting, and biomedical imaging, is developed as a workflow for the development of tumor shape-specific BT implants. First, computer-aided design plans of EP are prepared according to guidelines prescribed by the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study protocol. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a high-performance polymer suitable for permanent implants, is used to 3D-print plaques and the geometrical accuracy of the printed design is evaluated by imaging. The possibility to modulate the dose distribution in a tridimensional manner is demonstrated by painting the inner surfaces of the EPs with radioactive 103Pd, followed by dose profile measurements. The possibility to modulate dose distributions generated by these 3D-printed plaques through radioactivity painting is therefore confirmed. Ex vivo surgical tests on human eyeballs are performed as an assessment of manipulation ease. Overall, this work provides a solution for the fabrication of tumor-specific radioactive implants requiring higher dose precision.

Single-Masked Randomized Phase 2 Study Assessing 2 Forms of Hypofractionated Proton Therapy in Patients With Large Choroidal Melanomas

PURPOSE

Patients with large uveal melanomas are at major risk of liver metastases. Some patients are reluctant to undergo the standard treatment (ie, immediate enucleation). Proton therapy yields 5-year local control rates and eyeball retention of >85% and ≈20% in large uveal melanomas. Patients with T3/T4 uveal melanomas refusing enucleation were randomized between standard 4 to 13 Gy-fraction or moderately hypofractionated 8 to 6.5 Gy-fraction proton therapy. The main endpoint was the 2-year local recurrence-free survival without enucleation.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A single-masked 1:2 randomized phase 2 trial was conducted between 2015 and 2017 with planned endoresection and distance to the posterior pole as strata. Local events were defined as local relapse, or enucleation due to complications or relapse.

RESULTS

The 32 patients, with a mean age of 64 years, had T3/4 (N = 17/15), M1 (N = 2) uveal melanomas, of mean tumor diameter and thickness of 16.5 mm and 9.1 mm, and of posterior location in 56.5%. Median follow-up was 56.7 months. The 2-year local recurrence-free survival rate without enucleation was 79% (95% confidence interval, 65%-96%), similar in both arms. There were 9 enucleations, 3 at relapse and 6 for toxicities. Twelve patients had distant metastases. The 2-year-overall survival was 72% (95% confidence interval, 58%-89%). At baseline, visual acuity by average logarithm value of the minimum angle of resolution was 0.68 and 0.70 in the standard and experimental arms, and at last follow-up 2 and 1.7, with mean differences of 1.44 and 1.01, respectively (P = .39).

CONCLUSION

An 8-times 6.5 Gy scheme is feasible without deteriorating local control and with similar toxicity rates in patients with large uveal melanomas. Larger studies incorporating adjuvant treatments are warranted.

Proton beam radiotherapy for choroidal and ciliary body melanoma in the UK-national audit of referral patterns of 1084 cases

INTRODUCTION

Proton beam therapy has been utilised for the treatment of uveal melanoma in the UK for over 30 years, undertaken under a single centre. In the UK, all ocular tumours are treated at one of four centres. We aimed to understand the variation in referral patterns to the UK proton service, capturing all uveal melanoma patients treated with this modality.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data regarding all patients treated at the Clatterbridge Proton service between January 2004 and December 2014.

RESULTS

A total of 1084 patients with uveal melanoma were treated. The mean age was 57 years (range 9-90 years), basal diameter of 11.5 mm (range 2.0-23.4 mm) and tumour thickness of 3.9 mm (range 0.1-15.4 mm). The majority were TNM stage I (39%) or II (36%). The distance to the optic nerve varied from 0 to 24.5 mm with 148 (14%) of patients having ciliary body involvement. There were variations in the phenotypic characteristic of the tumours treated with protons from different centres, with London referring predominantly small tumours at the posterior pole, Glasgow referring large tumours often at the ciliary body and Liverpool sending a mix of these groups.

DISCUSSION

In the UK, common indications for the use of proton treatment in uveal melanoma include small tumours in the posterior pole poorly accessible for plaque treatment (adjacent to the disc), tumours at the posterior pole affecting the fovea and large anterior tumours traditionally too large for brachytherapy. This is the first UK-wide audit enabling the capture of all patients treated at the single proton centre.

Post-enucleation outcomes of patients with uveal melanoma in Scotland

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

To investigate post-enucleation outcomes and assess the effect of extrascleral extension (ESE) on these outcomes for patients with uveal melanoma (UM) managed at a tertiary referral centre in Scotland.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Retrospective review of all cases of UM managed by the Scottish Ocular Oncology Service for which enucleation was undertaken between 13/03/2008 and 31/12/2020. Primary outcomes were length of survival, time-to-metastasis (TTM) and local recurrence rate. Secondary outcomes were the effects of the presence of ESE, ESE size, and the use of adjuvant external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) on the primary outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 172 enucleated UMs, 32 (18.6%) had ESE. Over a median follow-up period of 33.7 months (range = 1.1-163.7 months), 91 (52.9%) patients died. The median length of all-cause survival of 54.1 months (range = 1.1-163.7 months). One-year, 5-year, and 10-year survival rates were 84.8%, 49.1%, and 30.9%, respectively. Eighty-four (49.7%) patients had metastatic disease. The median TTM of 42.2 months (range = 0.4-106.8 months). Proportions of patients who developed metastases within 1-year, 5-years and 10-years post-enucleation were 22.7%, 52.8%, and 71.8%, respectively. There was one instance of local orbital recurrence. ESE was associated with a significantly shorter length of survival (p = 0.03). There was a trend towards a shorter length of survival and TTM with ESE > 5 mm and those who received adjuvant EBRT.

CONCLUSIONS

ESE was present in one-sixth of our cohort and was associated with a significantly shorter length of survival, particularly in the presence of ESE > 5 mm or high-risk characteristics warranting adjuvant EBRT. This data will aid prognostication of the patients in our service.

Every other day stereotactic radiation therapy for the treatment of uveal melanoma decreases toxicity

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To report the long-term results of stereotactic radiosurgery and fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy (SRS/FSRT) in patients with uveal melanoma (UM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated the results of patients treated between 2007 and 2019. The primary endpoints were local control (LC), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), enucleation-free survival (EFS) and treatment toxicity.

RESULTS

443 patients with 445 UMs were treated via CyberKnife®. According to the COMS classification, 70% of the tumors were small/medium and 30% were large. Median total RT dose was 54 Gy, median BED10 was 151 Gy. After a median 74-months follow-up, SRS/FSRT yielded an 83% overall LC rate. The 5- and 10-year LRFS rate was 74% and 56%, respectively. Patient age and the COMS size were prognostic for all survival endpoints. An increased SRS/FSRT dose was associated with higher LRFS and EFS rates. SRS/FSRT-related toxicity was observed in 49% of the eyes. Median visual acuity (VA) significantly deteriorated after SRS/FSRT in 76% of the treated eyes. The overall eye preservation rate was 62%, and the 5- and 10-year EFS rate was 64% and 36%, respectively. The delivery of FSRT every other day resulted in a significantly lower rate of toxicity and enucleation compared to FSRT on consecutive days.

CONCLUSION

A total dose of ≥45 Gy and BED_10Gy ≥ 112.5 SRS/FSRT is associated with a higher LC rate in patients with UM. Despite the favorable outcomes, treatment toxicity is the major limitation of this treatment. Toxicity and enucleation can be minimized by treating the eye every other day.

RETINAL MICROVASCULAR CHANGES IN UVEAL MELANOMA FOLLOWING CONBERCEPT INJECTION AFTER PLAQUE RADIOTHERAPY AS DETECTED BY OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY

PURPOSE

To investigate macular microvascular characteristics imaged by optical coherence tomography angiography in patients with uveal melanoma following conbercept injections after plaque radiotherapy.

METHODS

Prospective comparative analysis comprising 15 patients with uveal melanoma with conbercept injections and 30 patients without conbercept injections after plaque radiotherapy by optical coherence tomography angiography. The conbercept group received intravitreal conbercept injections at the time of plaque removal, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months , 9 months and 12 months after plaque removal (total, 6 injections). The control group had no intravitreal conbercept injection.

RESULTS

After initiation of conbercept injections, superficial retinal vascular density in the whole image and parafoveal region were significantly higher at 6 months, whereas there was no significant difference at 9 months and 12 months. In analysis of variance analysis, superficial retinal vascular density in the whole image remained stable after conbercept injections (P = 0.069), whereas the superficial retinal vascular density decreased significantly after plaque radiotherapy in the control group (P = 0.011). In multivariable linear regression, a higher superficial retinal vascular density in the whole image region at 6 months was significantly associated with intravitreal conbercept injection (P = 0.018), wider tumor base (P = 0.026), and thinner tumor thickness (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Optical coherence tomography angiography can provide a quantitative evaluation of early retinal microvascular changes after radiotherapy. Intravitreal conbercept treatment could partly relieve the retinal vascular damage in response to radiation therapy at early stage in patients with uveal melanoma; however, it may not be able to provide long-term positive functional outcomes.

Uveal Melanoma Metastasis to the Contralateral Eye Structures: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis of 13 Consecutive Patients

PURPOSE

To report uveal melanoma (UM) metastasis to the contralateral ocular and periocular structures.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirteen patients with UM metastasis to the contralateral ocular and periocular structures were included.

METHODS

Clinical records were reviewed retrospectively.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The development and time to onset of contralateral ocular and periocular metastasis, systemic metastasis, and death.

RESULTS

Of the 13 000 treated UM patients, 13 patients were diagnosed with UM metastasis to the contralateral ocular and periocular structures. Mean patient age at primary UM diagnosis was 60 years (median, 60 years; range, 37-87 years). The primary uveal melanoma was in the choroid (n = 11) or ciliary body (n = 2) and was treated with brachytherapy (n = 11), proton beam radiotherapy (n = 1), or enucleation (n = 1). Systemic metastasis developed in 11 patients (85%) at a mean of 66 months (median, 34 months; range, 12-216 months) after diagnosis of the primary UM. All 11 patients (100%) showed liver metastasis and 8 patients (62%) also showed extrahepatic metastasis. The sites of metastasis to the contralateral ocular or periocular structures included the choroid in 4 patients (31%), the orbit in 7 patients (54%), and the eyelid in 2 patients (15%). One patient with eyelid metastasis demonstrated concurrent conjunctival nodule. Mean time to diagnosis of contralateral ocular or periocular metastasis was 94 months (median, 48 months; range, 9-375 months). Contralateral choroidal metastasis was multifocal in 3 of 4 patients (75%). Of 7 patients with orbital metastasis, 5 showed extraocular muscle involvement with restricted ocular motility. Treatment for contralateral choroidal metastasis included brachytherapy (n = 2), transpupillary thermotherapy (n = 1), and observation (n = 1). Treatment for contralateral periocular (orbit or eyelid) metastasis was excision (n = 5), external beam radiotherapy (n = 2), and observation (n = 2). Of 13 patients, death was documented in 11 patients at a mean of 17 months (median, 9 months; range, 3-54 months) as a result of systemic UM metastasis (n = 10) or unrelated cause (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

Metastasis resulting from UM to the contralateral ocular and periocular structures is rare and generally occurs in patients with disseminated metastasis. Orbital tissue is the most common site of involvement, and these patients have short life expectancy.

Paired comparisons of mutational profiles before and after brachytherapy in asian uveal melanoma patients

Uveal melanoma(UM) is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in adults. However, the incidence of UM in Asia is 10 to 20 times less than in Western populations. Therefore, for the first time, we report our whole exome sequencing (WES) data analysis to discover differences in the molecular features of Asian and Western UM, and to determine the disparities between the primary tumor before brachytherapy and enucleated samples after brachytherapy. WES of 19 samples (13 primary tumors, 5 enucleation samples after brachytherapy, and 1 liver metastasis) from 13 patients diagnosed with UM and treated between 2007 and 2019 at the Yonsei University Health System (YUHS) were analyzed using bioinformatics pipelines. We identified significantly altered genes in Asian UM and changes in mutational profiles before and after brachytherapy using various algorithms. GNAQ, BAP1, GNA11, SF3B1 and CYSLTR2 were significantly mutated in Asian UM, which is similar that reported frequently in previous Western-based UM studies. There were also similar copy number alterations (M3, 1p loss, 6p gain, 8q gain) in both groups. In paired comparisons of the same patients, DICER1 and LRP1B were distinctly mutated only in tumor samples obtained after brachytherapy using rare-variant association tests (P = 0.01, 0.01, respectively). The mutational profiles of Asian UM were generally similar to the data from previous Western-based studies. DICER1 and LRP1B were newly mutated genes with statistical significance in the regrowth samples after brachytherapy compared to the primary tumors, which may be related to resistance to brachytherapy.

Vitreoretinal Surgery in the Prevention and Treatment of Toxic Tumour Syndrome in Uveal Melanoma: A Systematic Review

Toxic tumour syndrome (TTS) is a particularly aggressive form of secondary vasculopathy occurring after radiation therapy of uveal melanoma due to the persistence of the necrotic tumour mass inside the eye. The development of TTS confers a particularly unfavourable functional and anatomical ocular prognosis, ultimately requiring enucleation in most cases if untreated. Vitreoretinal (VR) surgery has been successfully applied for treatment and prevention of TTS using both resecting and non-resecting techniques. In this systematic review, we aim to define characteristics of uveal melanomas benefiting the most from secondary VR surgery and to outline the optimal type and timing of VR intervention in such cases. Analysis of the literature reveals that endoresection should be performed within 3 months after radiotherapy to tumours thicker than 7 mm and with a largest basal diameter between 8 mm and 15 mm with post-equatorial location, especially after proton beam treatment. Alternatively, endodrainage remains a valid therapeutic option in eyes with macula-off retinal detachment, tumour diameter larger than 15 mm or ciliary body involvement. VR surgery can be successful in the management of TTS following radiotherapy for uveal melanoma when timing and indication are appropriately evaluated.

Characterization of the HollandPTC proton therapy beamline dedicated to uveal melanoma treatment and an interinstitutional comparison

PURPOSE

Eye-dedicated proton therapy (PT) facilities are used to treat malignant intraocular lesions, especially uveal melanoma (UM). The first commercial ocular PT beamline from Varian was installed in the Netherlands. In this work, the conceptual design of the new eyeline is presented. In addition, a comprehensive comparison against five PT centers with dedicated ocular beamlines is performed, and the clinical impact of the identified differences is analyzed.

MATERIAL/METHODS

The HollandPTC eyeline was characterized. Four centers in Europe and one in the United States joined the study. All centers use a cyclotron for proton beam generation and an eye-dedicated nozzle. Differences among the chosen ocular beamlines were in the design of the nozzle, nominal energy, and energy spectrum. The following parameters were collected for all centers: technical characteristics and a set of distal, proximal, and lateral region measurements. The measurements were performed with detectors available in-house at each institution. The institutions followed the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Technical Report Series (TRS)-398 Code of Practice for absolute dose measurement, and the IAEA TRS-398 Code of Practice, its modified version or International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements Report No. 78 for spread-out Bragg peak normalization. Energy spreads of the pristine Bragg peaks were obtained with Monte Carlo simulations using Geant4. Seven tumor-specific case scenarios were simulated to evaluate the clinical impact among centers: small, medium, and large UM, located either anteriorly, at the equator, or posteriorly within the eye. Differences in the depth dose distributions were calculated.

RESULTS

A pristine Bragg peak of HollandPTC eyeline corresponded to the constant energy of 75 MeV (maximal range 3.97 g/cm2 in water) with an energy spread of 1.10 MeV. The pristine Bragg peaks for the five participating centers varied from 62.50 to 104.50 MeV with an energy spread variation between 0.10 and 0.70 MeV. Differences in the average distal fall-offs and lateral penumbrae (LPs) (over the complete set of clinically available beam modulations) among all centers were up to 0.25 g/cm2 , and 0.80 mm, respectively. Average distal fall-offs of the HollandPTC eyeline were 0.20 g/cm2 , and LPs were between 1.50 and 2.15 mm from proximal to distal regions, respectively. Treatment time, around 60 s, was comparable among all centers. The virtual source-to-axis distance of 120 cm at HollandPTC was shorter than for the five participating centers (range: 165-350 cm). Simulated depth dose distributions demonstrated the impact of the different beamline characteristics among institutions. The largest difference was observed for a small UM located at the posterior pole, where a proximal dose between two extreme centers was up to 20%.

CONCLUSIONS

HollandPTC eyeline specifications are in accordance with five other ocular PT beamlines. Similar clinical concepts can be applied to expect the same high local tumor control. Dosimetrical properties among the six institutions induce most likely differences in ocular radiation-related toxicities. This interinstitutional comparison could support further research on ocular post-PT complications. Finally, the findings reported in this study could be used to define dosimetrical guidelines for ocular PT to unify the concepts among institutions.

Radiation therapy for uveal melanoma: a review of treatment methods available in 2021

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Radiation therapy has become the standard of care for the treatment of uveal melanoma. We intend to outline the current radiation therapy methods that are employed to treat uveal melanoma. We will outline their relative benefits over one another. We will also provide some background about radiation therapy in general to accustom the ophthalmologists likely reading this review.

RECENT FINDINGS

Four main options exist for radiation therapy of uveal melanoma. Because the eye is a small space, and because melanomas are relatively radioresistant, oncologists treating uveal melanoma must deliver highly focused doses in high amounts to a small space. Therapies incorporating external beams include proton beam therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery. Stereotactic radiosurgery comes in two forms, gamma knife therapy and cyberknife therapy. Radiation may also be placed directly on the eye surgically via plaque brachytherapy. All methods have been used effectively to treat uveal melanoma.

SUMMARY

Each particular radiotherapy technique employed to treat uveal melanoma has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. The ocular oncologist can choose amongst these therapies based upon his or her clinical judgment of the relative risks and benefits. Availability of the therapy and cost to the patient remain significant factors in the ocular oncologist's choice.

Three-dimensional MRI-based treatment planning approach for non-invasive ocular proton therapy

PURPOSE

To develop a high-resolution three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based treatment planning approach for uveal melanomas (UM) in proton therapy.

MATERIALS/METHODS

For eight patients with UM, a segmentation of the gross tumor volume (GTV) and organs-at-risk (OARs) was performed on T1- and T2-weighted 7 Tesla MRI image data to reconstruct the patient MR-eye. An extended contour was defined with a 2.5-mm isotropic margin derived from the GTV. A broad beam algorithm, which we have called πDose, was implemented to calculate relative proton absorbed doses to the ipsilateral OARs. Clinically favorable gazing angles of the treated eye were assessed by calculating a global weighted-sum objective function, which set penalties for OARs and extreme gazing angles. An optimizer, which we have named OPT'im-Eye-Tool, was developed to tune the parameters of the functions for sparing critical-OARs.

RESULTS

In total, 441 gazing angles were simulated for every patient. Target coverage including margins was achieved in all the cases (V95%  > 95%). Over the whole gazing angles solutions space, maximum dose (Dmax ) to the optic nerve and the macula, and mean doses (Dmean ) to the lens, the ciliary body and the sclera were calculated. A forward optimization was applied by OPT'im-Eye-Tool in three different prioritizations: iso-weighted, optic nerve prioritized, and macula prioritized. In each, the function values were depicted in a selection tool to select the optimal gazing angle(s). For example, patient 4 had a T2 equatorial tumor. The optimization applied for the straight gazing angle resulted in objective function values of 0.46 (iso-weighted situation), 0.90 (optic nerve prioritization) and 0.08 (macula prioritization) demonstrating the impact of that angle in different clinical approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

The feasibility and suitability of a 3D MRI-based treatment planning approach have been successfully tested on a cohort of eight patients diagnosed with UM. Moreover, a gaze-angle trade-off dose optimization with respect to OARs sparing has been developed. Further validation of the whole treatment process is the next step in the goal to achieve both a non-invasive and a personalized proton therapy treatment.

Enucleation after Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Patients with Uveal Melanoma

INTRODUCTION

In the past enucleation was the treatment of choice for all the patients with uveal melanoma. Nowadays, we prefer glope-sparing treatment modalities, except for large tumors, tumors with extrascleral extension and painful blind eyes. Most of the patients perform radiotherapy or local resection techniques. In Slovak Republic, the only one possibility is a stereotactic radiotherapy on a linear accelerator LINAC. Nevertheless, enucleation after radiotherapy is necessary for some patients. The causes are postradiation complications, mainly neovascular glaucoma, tumor recurrence, tumor progression or patient´s decision.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The retrospective non-randomised study of 168 eyes of the patients with choroidal or ciliary body melanoma, who performed one-day session stereotactic radiosurgery at the linear accelerator LINAC during period 2007-2016. The data about postradiation complications were analysed based on the medical records of the patients and the data about enucleated eyes based on the histopathological findings.

RESULTS

The occurence of enucleation after radiotherapy in our cohort was 17 % (28 patients), with median time period after radiotherapy 21,5 months. The most common cause was neovascular glaucoma (82 %), then tumor progression (14 %) and patient´s decision (4 %). The most common histopathological finding was spindle-cell melanoma.

DISCUSSION

Others authors describe similar enucleation rate and causes. The histopathological findings indentified more viable melanoma cells in eyes enucleated for tumor progression in comparison with enucleation for other causes. Enucleation may be more difficult and the occurence of postoperative complications can be higher in the eyes after radiotherapy rather than primary enucleation.

CONCLUSION

The management of the patients with uveal melanoma is difficult, and requires the cooperation of ophthalmologist, oncologist, radiation physicist and pathologist. Even if we make effort to preserve the eye, enucleation after radiotherapy is necessary in some patients.

Randomized Trial of Monthly Versus As-Needed Intravitreal Ranibizumab for Radiation Retinopathy-Related Macular Edema: 1-Year Outcomes

PURPOSE

To assess efficacy of intravitreal ranibizumab injections and targeted panretinal photocoagulation (TRP) for radiation retinopathy-related macular edema.

DESIGN

Phase IIb, prospective, randomized clinical trial.

METHODS

Setting: Multicenter.

SUBJECTS

Forty eyes in 40 treatment-naïve patients with radiation-induced macular edema and a resulting decrease in visual acuity ranging between 20/25 and 20/400 (Snellen equivalent).

INTERVENTION

Patients either received intravitreal 0.5 mg ranibizumab monthly, monthly ranibizumab with TRP, or 3 monthly ranibizumab (loading doses) followed by as-needed (PRN) injections and TRP. After week 52, all subjects entered a treat-and-extend protocol for ranibizumab. MainOutcomeMeasures: Mean Early Treatment Diabetic Maculopathy Study (ETDRS) BCVA change from baseline.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 57 years (range, 22-80 years), ETDRS BCVA was 56.7 letters (20/74 Snellen equivalent), and central macular thickness (CMT) was 423 μm (range, 183-826 μm). Thirty-seven patients completed the month 12 visit (92.5%), at which time the change in mean BCVA was +4.0 letters, -1.9 letters, and +0.9 letters in the monthly, monthly plus laser, and PRN plus laser cohorts, respectively. There was a significant difference in mean BCVA at 1 year among all 3 cohorts (P < .001), as well as between cohorts in pairwise comparisons, with the most significant gains in the monthly group. A total of 82.5% of the patients retained visual acuity of 20/200 or better, and 20.0% improved 10 or more ETDRS letters.

CONCLUSIONS

Ranibizumab may improve vision and anatomy in patients with radiation retinopathy-related macular edema and prevent vision loss through 48 weeks of therapy. Monthly injections were more effective than as-needed approach, and the addition of TRP yielded no therapeutic benefits.

Tumour control probability after Ruthenium-106 brachytherapy for choroidal melanomas

Purpose: Ruthenium-106 (Ru-106) brachytherapy is a common eye-preserving treatment for choroidal melanomas. However, a dose-response model describing the relationship between the actual delivered tumour dose and tumour control has, to the best of our knowledge, not previously been quantified for Ru-106 brachytherapy; we aimed to rectify this.Material and methods: We considered consecutive patients with primary choroidal melanomas, treated with Ru-106 brachytherapy (2005-2014). Dosimetric plans were retrospectively recreated using 3D image-guided planning software. Pre-treatment fundus photographies were used to contour the tumour; post-treatment photographies to determine the accurate plaque position. Patient and tumour characteristics, treatment details, dose volume histograms, and clinical outcomes were extracted. Median follow-up was 5.0 years. The relationship between tumour dose and risk of local recurrence was examined using multivariate Cox regression modelling, with minimum physical tumour dose (D99%) as primary dose metric.Results: We included 227 patients with median tumour height and largest base dimension of 4 mm (range 1-12, IQR 3-6) and 11 mm (range 4-23, IQR 9-13). The estimated 3 year local control was 82% (95% CI 77-88). Median D99% was 105 Gy (range 6-783, IQR 65-138); this was the most significant factor associated with recurrence (p < .0001), although tumour height, combined TTT and Ru-106 brachytherapy, and sex were also significant. The hazard ratio (HR) for a 10 Gy increase in D99% was 0.87 (95% CI 0.82-0.93). Using biological effective dose in the model resulted in no substantial difference in dose dependence estimates. Robustness cheques with D1-99% showed D99% to be the most significant dose metric for local recurrence.Conclusion: The minimum tumour dose correlated strongly with risk of tumour recurrence, with 100 Gy needed to ensure at least 84% local control at 3 years.

AVATAR: Analysis for Visual Acuity Prediction After Eye Interventional Radiotherapy

AIM

The aim of this study was to detect clinical factors predictive of loss of visual acuity after treatment in order to develop a predictive model to help identify patients at risk of visual loss.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective review of patients who underwent interventional radiotherapy (brachytherapy) with 106Ru plaque for primary uveal melanoma. A predictive nomogram for visual acuity loss at 3 years from treatment was developed.

RESULTS

A total of 152 patients were selected for the study. The actuarial probability of conservation of 20/40 vision or better was 0.74 at 1 year, 0.59 at 3 years, and 0.54 at 5 years after treatment. Factors positively correlated with loss of visual acuity included: age at start of treatment (p=0.004) and longitudinal basal diameter (p=0.057), while distance of the posterior margin of the tumor from the foveola was inversely correlated (p=0.0007).

CONCLUSION

We identified risk factors affecting visual function and developed a predictive model and decision support tool (AVATAR nomogram).

Prophylactic Intravitreal Bevacizumab After Plaque Radiotherapy for Uveal Melanoma: Analysis of Visual Acuity, Tumor Response, and Radiation Complications in 1131 Eyes Based on Patient Age

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of age on radiation complications after plaque radiotherapy and prophylactic intravitreal bevacizumab for uveal melanoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Retrospective single-center study of plaque-irradiated uveal melanoma with prophylactic intravitreal bevacizumab at 4-month intervals from July 2000 to January 2018.

RESULTS

Of 1131 eyes in 1131 patients, age was <50 years (n = 231), 50 to 70 years (n = 657), or >70 years (n = 243). Comparison by age category (<50 vs 50-70 vs >70 years) revealed the oldest group presenting with greatest tumor basal diameter (11.3 vs 11.3 vs 12.1 mm, P = 0.03) and worst visual acuity (20/40 vs 20/40 vs 20/50, P = 0.02). After plaque (mean follow-up 40 vs 42 vs 32 months, P < 0.001), radiation complications were most common in the youngest age group, including maculopathy (48% vs 39% vs 28%, P < 0.001), extramacular retinopathy (30% vs 25% vs 16%, P = 0.002), and papillopathy (21% vs 18% vs 12%, P = 0.03). The youngest age group had the highest Kaplan-Meier estimated 48-month cumulative probability for radiation maculopathy (62% vs 46% vs 47%, P = 0.001), extramacular retinopathy (36% vs 34% vs 29%, P = 0.03), and papillopathy (29% vs 26% vs 22%, P = 0.13). On subanalysis, the youngest age group had increased 48-month risk of developing radiation maculopathy when compared with the middle [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.5, P = 0.001] and older (HR = 1.6, P = 0.005) age groups and increased 48-month risk of developing extramacular radiation retinopathy compared with the older age group (HR = 1.5, P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

After plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma and prophylactic intravitreal bevacizumab at 4-month intervals, patients younger than 50 years old have an increased 48-month risk of radiation maculopathy.

Increased elasticity of melanoma cells after low-LET proton beam due to actin cytoskeleton rearrangements

Cellular response to non-lethal radiation stress include perturbations in DNA repair, angiogenesis, migration, and adhesion, among others. Low-LET proton beam radiation has been shown to induce somewhat different biological response than photon radiation. For example, we have shown that non-lethal doses of proton beam radiation inhibited migration of cells and that this effect persisted long-term. Here, we have examined cellular elasticity and actin cytoskeleton organization in BLM cutaneous melanoma and Mel270 uveal melanoma cells. Proton beam radiation increased cellular elasticity to a greater extent than X-rays and both types of radiation induced changes in actin cytoskeleton organization. Vimentin level increased in BLM cells after both types of radiation. Our data show that cell elasticity increased substantially after low-LET proton beam and persisted long after radiation. This may have significant consequences for the migratory properties of melanoma cells, as well as for the cell susceptibility to therapy.

The Lens Opacities Classification System III Grading in Irradiated Uveal Melanomas to Characterize Proton Therapy-Induced Cataracts

PURPOSE

To evaluate the use of the Lens Opacities Classification System III grading (LOCS III) for the characterization of radiation-induced cataract, and to correlate the proton beam projection onto the lens with cataract location and grade as defined by the LOCS III.

DESIGN

Prospective, interventional case series.

METHODS

Fifty-two consecutive patients with cataract following proton therapy were included. All cataracts were graded using LOCS III. Relationships between proton beam and cataract subtypes, as well as between dose, proportion of lens irradiated, and extent of cataracts, were assessed.

RESULTS

Tumor diameter, volume, stage, and equatorial tumor location were associated with extent of posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSC) that were diagnosed at a median (interquartile range) 36 months (22;83) after treatment. In multivariate analysis, the tumor volume (P < .01) and an equatorial tumor location (P = .01) were risk factors for extensive PSC. Lens irradiation was avoided in 10 patients. In the remaining 42 patients (81%), the extent of PSC significantly correlated with the dose to the lens receiving 10, 26, and 47 Gy (P = .03, P = .03, and P = .04, respectively), the dose to the lens periphery receiving 10 and 26 Gy (P = .02 and P = .02, respectively), and the dose to the ciliary body receiving 10 and 26 Gy (P = .03 and P = .02, respectively). Nuclear color significantly correlated with the dose to the ciliary body receiving 10 Gy (P = .03) and 26 Gy (P = .02). After adjustment of the results on tumor volume and tumor location, the volume of lens receiving 10 Gy (P = .04) and 26 Gy (P = .03) remained significantly associated with the extent of PSC.

CONCLUSIONS

Proton dose correlated with the occurrence of PSC and nuclear color cataracts as defined by LOCS III grading. Better characterization of cataracts with the LOCS III after irradiation may help to further fill gaps in the current understanding of the mechanisms of radiation-induced cataracts.

Palladium-103 Brachytherapy for Choroidal Melanoma in a Pregnant Woman

The authors present a case of a pregnant woman with uveal melanoma treated with plaque brachytherapy. Her calculated fetal radiation dose was significantly below accepted levels. The use of the authors' novel, custom-made lead chin shield further diminished irradiation of the fetus. This patient had uncomplicated treatment course, delivered a healthy child full term, achieved local tumor control, and maintained 20/25 vision at 1-year follow-up. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2018;49:364-368.].

Plaque Radiotherapy for Medulloepithelioma in 6 Cases From a Single Center

PURPOSE

To describe outcomes of 6 patients treated with plaque radiotherapy for medulloepithelioma.

DESIGN

Retrospective review.

METHODS

Computerized medical records were reviewed for patients with cytopathologically confirmed medulloepithelioma and treated with plaque radiotherapy from January 1970 to December 2017. Clinical and radiotherapy parameters along with outcomes of tumor regression, globe salvage, and metastatic disease were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 6 patients with medulloepithelioma, plaque radiotherapy was primary (n = 5) or secondary (n = 1) treatment. The median patient age at diagnosis was 41 months (mean, 145; range, 10-624 months). Patient demographics included white race (n = 6) and female sex (n = 5). Patients presented with strabismus (n = 1), decreased vision (n = 1), ocular pain (n = 1), hyphema (n = 1), corectopia (n = 1), and visible iris lesion (n = 1). The mean tumor basal diameter was 11.2 mm (median, 10.0; range, 7.0-16.0 mm), and mean tumor thickness was 6.8 mm (median, 6.4; range, 3.1-11.0 mm). Related findings included cataract (n = 2), iris neovascularization (n = 5), secondary glaucoma (n = 2), and ectropion uveae (n = 2). The mean radiation dose to tumor apex was 44 Gy (median, 38; range, 35-70 Gy). At a mean follow-up of 59 months (range, 12-210 months), tumor control was achieved in 5 eyes (83%) with globe salvage in 4 eyes (67%). No patient had evidence of metastases or death at the last follow-up visit.

CONCLUSIONS

Plaque radiotherapy is a reasonable alternative treatment for localized, small- to medium-size medulloepithelioma. Tumors larger than 11.0 mm, with retrolental cyclitic membrane or extrascelral extension, might still require enucleation.

Gene Expression Profiling and PRAME Status Versus Tumor-Node-Metastasis Staging for Prognostication in Uveal Melanoma

PURPOSE

To compare the prognostic accuracy of gene expression profiling (GEP) combined with PRAME status vs the clinical Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) staging in patients with uveal melanoma (UM).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

The study included 240 consecutive patients with UM. Tumors were assessed for GEP status (Class 1 or Class 2) using a validated 15-gene assay and PRAME expression status using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. TNM staging was according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models. Metastasis was the primary endpoint.

RESULTS

GEP was Class 1 in 128 (53.3%) cases and Class 2 in 112 (46.7%) cases. PRAME status was negative in 157 (65.4%) cases and positive in 83 (34.6%) cases. TNM was stage I in 26 (10.8%) cases, IIA in 67 (27.9%) cases, IIB in 50 (20.8%) cases, IIIA in 59 (24.6%) cases, and IIIB in 38 (15.8%) cases. Metastatic disease was detected in 59 (24.6%) cases after median follow-up of 29 months (mean 42 months; range 1-195 months). Variables associated with metastasis included (in order of decreasing significance): GEP class (P = 1.5 × 10-8), largest basal tumor diameter (P = 2.5 × 10-6), PRAME status (P = 2.6 × 10-6), and TNM stage (P = 3.7 × 10-6). The prognostic accuracy of an optimized 3-category GEP/PRAME model (P = 8.6 × 10-14) was superior to an optimized TNM model (P = 1.3 × 10-5).

CONCLUSIONS

In UM, molecular prognostic testing using GEP and PRAME provides prognostic accuracy that is superior to TNM staging.

Hepatic Progression-free and Overall Survival After Regional Therapy to the Liver for Metastatic Melanoma

OBJECTIVES

Regional therapy for metastatic melanoma to the liver represents an alternative to systemic therapy. Hepatic progression-free survival (HPFS), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were evaluated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of patients with liver metastases from cutaneous or uveal melanoma treated with yttrium-90 (Y90), chemoembolization (CE), or percutaneous hepatic perfusion (PHP) was conducted.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (6 Y90, 10 PHP, 12 CE, 1 PHP then Y90, 1 CE then PHP) were included. Multivariate analysis showed improved HPFS for PHP versus Y90 (P=0.004), PHP versus CE (P=0.02) but not for CE versus Y90. PFS was also significantly different: Y90 (54 d), CE (52 d), PHP (245 d), P=0.03. PHP treatment and lower tumor burden were significant predictors of prolonged PFS on multivariate analysis. Median OS from time of treatment was longest, but not significant, for PHP at 608 days versus Y90 (295 d) and CE (265 d), P=0.24. Only PHP treatment versus Y90 and lower tumor burden had improved OS on multivariate analysis (P=0.03, 0.03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

HPFS and PFS were significantly prolonged in patients treated with PHP versus CE or Y90. Median OS in PHP patients was over double that seen in Y90 or CE patients but was significant only between PHP and Y90.

Proton Beam Irradiation: A Safe Procedure in Postequatorial Extraocular Extension From Uveal Melanoma

PURPOSE

This study was performed to show long-term outcomes concerning metastasis rates and local recurrence rates after primary proton beam therapy in uveal melanoma with posterior extraocular extension (EOE) with the main focus on optic nerve invasion.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

METHODS

All patients treated with primary proton beam therapy for choroidal or ciliary body melanoma with posterior EOE between July 1998 and August 2010 were included. EOE was detected either upon sonography at primary examination or during the surgical application of tantalum clips onto the sclera. Ultrasound was performed in each patient before surgery, and if EOE was detected, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan was performed to confirm EOE. All patients with tumors exceeding 6 mm in thickness or abutting the optic disc received a 1.5 Tesla MRI scan after clip surgery. To assess EOE during follow-up, either ultrasound examinations or-if initially detected only by MRI-MRI scans were performed during follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 27 patients underwent primary proton beam therapy. The EOE was separated into 3 growth types: optic nerve infiltration in 10 patients, vortex vein infiltration in 9 patients, and transscleral growth postequatorially in 8 patients. No local recurrences were found during the overall median follow-up of 80 months (11-168 months). Metastasis rates correlated with AJCC stages but not EOE volume.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that posterior EOE can safely be treated by proton beam therapy, even if the optic nerve is infiltrated. MRI enables safe detection of optic nerve invasion.

Clinical Application of Proton Beams in the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma: The First Therapies Carried Out in Italy and Preliminary Results (Catana Project)

Background

The first Italian proton therapy facility was realized in Catania, at the INFN-LNS. With its energy (62 MeV proton beam), it is ideal for the treatment of shallow tumors like those of the ocular region: uveal melanoma, first of all (the most common primary intraocular malignancy of adults) and other less frequent lesions like choroidal hemangioma, conjunctiva melanoma, and eyelid tumors.

Material and methods

The first patient was enrolled in February 2002, and to date 30 patients have been treated. All patients had a localized uveal melanoma, with no systemic metastases, and had specific indications for proton beam radiation therapy: lesions between 5–25 mm basal diameter, not exceeding 15 mm thickness, absence of total retinal detachment or glaucoma. According to the tumor dimensions, 2 patients had a small lesion or T1 (6%), 3 had a medium-sized lesion or T2 (10%), 14 had a large lesion or T3 (47%), and 11 had an extra-large lesion or T3 (37%); no patient had extrascleral invasion or T4 of the TNM-AJCC Staging System. In most cases, the tumor infiltrated only the choroid (14 patients, 47%) or the choroid plus the ciliary body (14 patients, 47%). We also treated a primitive iris melanoma, without diffusion to the ciliary body. The target volume was defined as the tumor plus a safety margin of 2.5 mm, laterally and antero-posteriorly; this margin was increased to 3 mm if ciliary body involvement was present. The treatment was carried out in 4 fractions on 4 consecutive days to a total dose of 54.5 Gy (single fraction 13.6 Gy), which corresponds to 60 CGE (Cobalt Gray Equivalent; single fraction 15 CGE), because the relative biological effectiveness is 1.1.

Results

The first follow-up is planned at 6–8 months after the end of the treatment, and our clinical end points are local control (defined as cessation of growth or tumor shrinkage), eye retention, and maintenance of a good visual function. At the time of this writing, we had preliminary results from 13 patients. Nine patients showed tumor shrinkage (69%), 3 a substantially stable dimension (23%), but almost all patients presented an increased ultrasound reflectivity (a surrogate for tumor control).

Discussion and conclusions

The literature data show that charged particle therapy has allowed an optimal local control in the treatment of uveal melanomas (about 96% in the different series, superior to that obtained with plaquetherapy [between 83% and 92%]), a metastatic rate slightly better than enucleation reports, and a survival rate of almost 90% at 5 years. Our preliminary results show a tumor response in almost all cases, with no major acute or subacute side effects. We thus plan to continue with our treatment procedures and our dose prescription.

Effects on Periocular Tissues after Proton Beam Radiation Therapy for Intraocular Tumors

BACKGROUND

To present our experience on orbital and periorbital tissue changes after proton beam radiation therapy (PBRT) in patients with intraocular tumors, apart from treatment outcomes and disease control.

METHODS

Medical records of 6 patients with intraocular tumors who had been treated with PBRT and referred to oculoplasty clinics of two medical centers (Seoul National University Hospital and Seoul Metropolitan Government-Seoul National University Boramae Medical Center) from October 2007 to September 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. The types of adverse effects associated with PBRT, their management, and progression were analyzed. In anophthalmic patients who eventually underwent enucleation after PBRT due to disease progression, orbital volume (OV) was assessed from magnetic resonance (MR) images using the Pinnacle3 program.

RESULTS

Among the six patients with PBRT history, three had uveal melanoma, and three children had retinoblastoma. Two eyes were treated with PBRT only, while the other four eyes ultimately underwent enucleation. Two eyes with PBRT only suffered from radiation dermatitis and intractable epiphora due to canaliculitis or punctal obstruction. All four anophthalmic patients showed severe enophthalmic features with periorbital hollowness. OV analysis showed that the difference between both orbits was less than 0.1 cm before enucleation, but increased to more than 2 cm³ after enucleation.

CONCLUSION

PBRT for intraocular tumors can induce various orbital and periorbital tissue changes. More specifically, when enucleation is performed after PBRT due to disease progression, significant enophthalmos and OV decrease can develop and can cause poor facial cosmesis as treatment sequelae.

Comparison of primary and secondary enucleation for uveal melanoma

We investigated operative course and post-operative findings of patients undergoing primary enucleation for uveal melanoma versus those requiring secondary enucleation after brachytherapy. A retrospective chart review was performed with IRB approval on patients receiving treatment for uveal melanoma. Patients with enucleation as initial treatment and patients enucleated after plaque brachytherapy were analyzed for demographic data, operative course, and post-enucleation outcome. Further cause analysis for secondary enucleations was investigated. No significant difference was seen in age, laterality, or gender between the primarily enucleated (n = 54) and secondarily enucleated (n = 34) groups. Greater difficulty with surgery was noted in 28/32 (87.5%) of secondary enucleations compared to 1/54 (1.8%) of primary enucleations (p < 0.0001). Operative time was >2 hours in 3/51 (6%) of primary enucleations (vs. 8 of 32, 25%, p = 0.02). Average implant size was similar in the 2 groups (20.6 mm), however 2/34 (6%) of secondary enucleations required dermis fat grafting. Post-enucleation anophthalmic ptosis occurred after 8/49 (16%) of primary cases (vs. 13/30, 43%, p = 0.02) and prosthetic enophthalmos after none (0%) of primary cases (vs. 5/30, 17%, p = 0.006). Class 2 gene expression profile was found in 6/8 (60%) of eyes enucleated for treatment failure. Secondary enucleation performed after plaque brachytherapy was technically more difficult, and had more anophthalmic socket and eyelid complications compared to primary enucleation for uveal melanoma. Primary enucleation may avoid additional surgery and morbidity in a subset of patients with contraindications to plaque brachytherapy.

Tumor parameters predict the risk of side effects after ruthenium-106 plaque brachytherapy of uveal melanomas

BACKGROUND

To report on radiation-related side effects and complications after ruthenium-106 plaque brachytherapy of uveal melanomas.

METHODS

Medical records of 143 eyes with uveal melanoma, treated by ruthenium-106 brachytherapy between 1997 and 2012 at a single center, were analyzed. We evaluated the occurrence of radiation-related side effects on the anterior and posterior segment of the eye. The influence of patient, tumor and treatment parameters on outcome was analyzed by multivariate time to event analysis considering competing risks.

RESULTS

The median overall follow-up was 37.9 months. After treatment, the estimated risk at 12, 24 and 48 months for developing anterior segment complications was 25.3%, 37.5% and 50.3% for cataract formation and 5.4%, 6.4% and 8.1% for secondary glaucoma, respectively. The estimated risk for the occurrence of posterior segment complications 12, 24 and 48 months after treatment was 3.1%, 6.7% and 18.3% for radiation retinopathy, 18.3%, 27.1% and 42.6% for radiation maculopathy and 16.5%, 21.0% and 32.8% for radiation neuropathy, respectively. The risk of an increase in retinal detachment after treatment was 14.7%, 14.7% and 17.4% at 12, 24 and 48 months, respectively. The risk of vitreous hemorrhage occurring after treatment was 6.2%, 8.1% and 12.7%, and the risk of tumor vasculopathy was 15.4%, 17.4% and 19.0%. Scleral necrosis was observed in one patient.

CONCLUSION

Radiation-related side effects and complications are common among patients treated with ruthenium brachytherapy for uveal melanoma. However, the risk for those largely depends on individual tumor parameters. Before treatment, patients should be informed of their specific risks to develop various side effects. Patient information before treatment should cover not only general information about the treatment and possible complications and side effects but should also give details on the specific risks of the patient in her individual situation. This also includes elucidating the patient's individual resources and expectations and her willingness for long-term regular follow-up examinations and secondary adjunct treatments.

Local Failure After Episcleral Brachytherapy for Posterior Uveal Melanoma: Patterns, Risk Factors, and Management

PURPOSE

To evaluate the patterns, the risk factors, and the management of recurrence following brachytherapy in patients with posterior uveal melanoma, given that an understanding of the recurrence patterns can improve early recognition and management of local treatment failure in such patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Setting: Multispecialty tertiary care center.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 375 eyes treated with episcleral brachytherapy for posterior uveal melanoma from January 2004 to December 2014. Exclusion criteria included inadequate follow-up (<1 year) and previous radiation therapy. Main Outcomes and Measures: Local control rate and time to recurrence were the primary endpoints. Kaplan-Meier estimation and Cox proportional hazards models were conducted to identify risk factors for recurrence.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients (5.6%) experienced recurrence (follow-up range 12-156 months; median 47 months). The median time to recurrence was 18 months (range 4-156 months). Five-year estimated local recurrence rate was 6.6%. The majority (90.5%) of the recurrences occurred within the first 5 years. The predominant site of recurrence was at the tumor margin (12 patients, 57.1%). Univariate analysis identified 3 statistically significant recurrence risk factors: advanced age, largest basal diameter, and the use of adjuvant transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT). Recurrent tumors were managed by repeat brachytherapy, TTT, or enucleation.

CONCLUSIONS

Local recurrences following brachytherapy are uncommon 5 years after episcleral brachytherapy. Follow-up intervals can be adjusted to reflect time to recurrence. Most of the eyes with recurrent tumor can be salvaged by conservative methods.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy in the Treatment of Uveal Melanoma

Uveal melanoma is the most common primary intraocular malignant tumor. Radiation therapy has now replaced enucleation as the treatment of choice, with radioactive eye plaques and proton therapy being the two most studied radiotherapy modalities. More recently, stereotactic radiosurgery and fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy have emerged as promising, non-invasive treatments for uveal melanoma. This review summarizes the available literature on these newer treatment modalities.

Second Primary Neoplasms in Patients With Uveal Melanoma: A SEER Database Analysis

PURPOSE

To determine the risk of second primary neoplasms (SPNs) in subjects previously diagnosed with uveal melanoma (UM), including an analysis on whether radiotherapy is a risk factor to develop these SPNs.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) 9 database, we identified patients diagnosed with UM as their first malignancy between 1973 and 2011 (n = 3976). We obtained standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and excess absolute risks of SPNs on patients with UM compared to a reference population. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to evaluate the effect of radiotherapy in SPN risk.

RESULTS

Sixteen percent (n = 641) of the patients developed SPNs during a median follow-up of 83 months (range, 1-463 months). This represented an 11% excess risk compared to the reference population, mainly owing to a significantly increased risk of skin melanomas (SIR = 2.93, 95% CI: 2.23-3.78) and kidney tumors (SIR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.27-2.76), primarily in those diagnosed between 30 and 59 years of age. The occurrence of second UM was also increased (SIR = 16.90, 95% CI: 9.00-28.90), which likely includes recurrences misclassified as a second cancer. Radiotherapy was performed in 39% (n = 1538) of the patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that this treatment was not an independent risk factor for SPNs (hazard ratio = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.88-1.26, P = .54).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with UM presented an 11% higher risk of SPNs compared to the reference population. Radiotherapy does not seem to be a risk factor. SPNs should be considered in the surveillance of UM.

Use of the Toric Surgical Marker to Aid in Intraoperative Plaque Placement for the USC Eye Physics Plaques to Treat Uveal Melanoma: A New Surgical Technique

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To describe a new surgical technique for intraoperative placement of Eye Physics (EP) plaques for uveal melanoma using a toric marker.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A toric marker is designed for cataract surgery to align the axis of astigmatism; its use was modified in this protocol to mark the axis of suture coordinates as calculated by Plaque Simulator (PS) software.

RESULTS

The toric marker can be used to localize suture coordinates, in degrees, during intraoperative plaque placement. Linear marking using the toric marker decreases potential inaccuracies associated with the surgeon estimating 'clock-hours' by dot placement.

CONCLUSION

Use of the toric marker aided surgical placement of EP plaques. The EP planning protocol is now designed to display the suture coordinates either by clock-hours or degrees, per surgeon preference. Future research is necessary to determine whether routine use of the toric marker improves operative efficiency. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2015;46:866-870.].

A Biological Tissue Adhesive and Dissolvent System for Intraocular Tumor Plaque Brachytherapy

PURPOSE

To examine a novel technique for simplified placement and removal of plaque brachytherapy by fibrin glue and urokinase (medac Gmbh, Hamburg, Germany).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In six enucleated porcine eyes, plaques were placed on the episclera and fibrin glue was applied to cover it. Urokinase was used to dissolve the glue in three eyes and saline was used in three eyes. Adhesion strength was measured further on 15 plaques affixed to porcine eyes (glued in five with intact conjunctiva, glued in five with removed conjunctiva, and sutured in five).

RESULTS

Saline had no effect on the glue-plaque-eye complex, whereas the urokinase (0.38 mL ± 0.08 mL) easily dissolved the adhesion between the glue layer and surrounding tissues. The weight required to detach the plaques was 0.349 kg ± 0.173 kg for glued eyes with intact conjunctiva, 0.405 kg ± 0.083 kg for sutured eyes (P = .59), and 0.032 kg ± 0.004 kg for glued eyes without intact conjunctiva (P ≤ .015).

CONCLUSIONS

The usage of the biological adhesive and dissolvent system was applicable for plaque surgery in an ex vivo animal model.

Ion therapy for uveal melanoma in new human eye phantom based on GEANT4 toolkit

Radiotherapy with ion beams like proton and carbon has been used for treatment of eye uveal melanoma for many years. In this research, we have developed a new phantom of human eye for Monte Carlo simulation of tumors treatment to use in GEANT4 toolkit. Total depth-dose profiles for the proton, alpha, and carbon incident beams with the same ranges have been calculated in the phantom. Moreover, the deposited energy of the secondary particles for each of the primary beams is calculated. The dose curves are compared for 47.8MeV proton, 190.1MeV alpha, and 1060MeV carbon ions that have the same range in the target region reaching to the center of tumor. The passively scattered spread-out Bragg peak (SOBP) for each incident beam as well as the flux curves of the secondary particles including neutron, gamma, and positron has been calculated and compared for the primary beams. The high sharpness of carbon beam׳s Bragg peak with low lateral broadening is the benefit of this beam in hadrontherapy but it has disadvantages of dose leakage in the tail after its Bragg peak and high intensity of neutron production. However, proton beam, which has a good conformation with tumor shape owing to the beam broadening caused by scattering, can be a good choice for the large-size tumors.