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Transpupillary thermotherapy for small choroidal melanoma
D G Godfrey1, R G Waldron, A Capone
1Department of Ophthalmology, Emory Eye Center, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|September 11, 1999
Summary
Transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) offers a viable treatment for small choroidal melanomas. Close monitoring is crucial as retreatment may be needed, and juxtapapillary tumors show higher recurrence risk.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
- Medical Treatments
Background:
- Choroidal melanoma is a rare intraocular malignancy.
- Small tumors require effective and minimally invasive treatment options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) for treating small choroidal melanomas.
Main Methods:
- A nonrandomized, uncontrolled series of 14 patients with small choroidal melanoma.
- Treatment with TTT was administered upon documented tumor growth.
- Follow-up included ophthalmoscopy, ultrasonography, and photography.
Main Results:
- Mean tumor height reduced significantly from 1.79 mm to 0.54 mm within 6 months.
- 10 out of 14 eyes showed complete tumor flattening.
- Three patients required retreatment; one case of recurrence in a juxtapapillary tumor led to enucleation.
Conclusions:
- Transpupillary thermotherapy is a potential treatment for small choroidal melanomas, including amelanotic types.
- Regular follow-up is essential due to potential recurrence and the need for retreatment.
- Juxtapillary location may increase recurrence risk; long-term data is pending.