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Updated: May 11, 2026
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Anterior High-Resolution Optical Coherence Tomography in the Diagnosis and Therapeutic Monitoring of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia
Published on: August 9, 2024
Topical chemotherapy for ocular surface squamous neoplasia
Afshan A Nanji1, Fouad E Sayyad, Carol L Karp
1Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
|May 18, 2013
Summary
Nonsurgical treatments like interferon α2b offer effective alternatives for ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN), with fewer side effects than traditional options. Tailoring medical therapies improves patient outcomes for this corneal and conjunctival condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Oncology
Background:
- Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) encompasses a range of epithelial dysplasias affecting the cornea, conjunctiva, and limbus.
- Historically, surgical excision was the primary treatment for OSSN.
- Nonsurgical interventions are increasingly favored for their ability to treat the entire ocular surface and avoid surgical complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy, advantages, and disadvantages of current medical therapies for OSSN.
- To guide the selection of appropriate treatments based on individual patient needs.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on medical treatments for OSSN.
- Analysis of data on chemotherapy agents including mitomycin C, 5-fluorouracil, and interferon α2b.
- Evaluation of emerging therapies such as anti-VEGF agents and vitamin A.
Main Results:
- Mitomycin C is effective but associated with significant side effects.
- 5-Fluorouracil and interferon α2b demonstrate comparable efficacy to mitomycin C.
- Interferon α2b is notably well-tolerated by most patients.
- Limited data exists for newer agents like anti-VEGF therapies and vitamin A.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the comparative benefits and drawbacks of OSSN therapies is crucial.
- Personalized treatment strategies for OSSN can be developed based on recent evidence.
- Medical management offers a viable and often preferable alternative to surgery for OSSN.
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