Detection of Minimally Visible Recurrent Retinoblastoma by Hand-held Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Retinoblastoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in children.
• Early detection and management of recurrent retinoblastoma are crucial for preserving vision and life.
• Standard follow-up methods may not detect minimal residual disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of hand-held spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in detecting subclinical recurrence of retinoblastoma.
• To assess the effectiveness of SD-OCT in identifying recurrence within previous regression scars.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 2-month-old infant with bilateral familial retinoblastoma treated with chemotherapy and focal therapy.
• Follow-up included fundus examination, ultrasonography, and hand-held SD-OCT at 5 months.
• Comparison of findings from different imaging modalities.

Main Results:

• Fundus examination and ultrasonography showed no evidence of recurrence.
• Hand-held SD-OCT revealed subclinical recurrence in a prior regression scar.
• Subsequent treatment resulted in a flat scar, confirming the SD-OCT findings.

Conclusions:

• Hand-held SD-OCT is a valuable tool for detecting subclinical retinoblastoma recurrence.
• SD-OCT can identify residual disease missed by conventional examination methods.
• This technology can improve monitoring and management of retinoblastoma patients.