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Targeted therapy and immunotherapy for orbital and periorbital tumors: a major review
Emmanuel Lee Boniao1,2, Richard C Allen3, Gangadhara Sundar1
1Orbit & Oculofacial Surgery, Ophthalmic Oncology, Department of Ophthalmology, National University Hospital, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
Abstract:
Traditionally, for patients who are poor candidates for surgery and/or radiotherapy, palliative chemotherapy is often offered but with significant toxic side effects. However, recent advancements in our understanding of tumor biology and molecular genetics have brought new understanding to the molecular pathways of certain tumors and cancers. This has ushered in a new era of precision medicine specific to a tumor or cancer treatment pathway (targeted therapy) or directed to host-tumor responses (immunotherapy). This article will focus on recent updates in the application of available targeted and immunotherapy for managing orbital and periorbital tumors and tumor-like conditions, which include cutaneous basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, cutaneous melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, sebaceous gland carcinoma, solitary fibrous tumor, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, orbital meningioma, neurofibromatosis, Langerhans cell histiocytosis, ocular adnexal lymphoma, orbital lymphatic malformation, and adenoid cystic carcinoma.
Insights
Precision medicine, including targeted therapy and immunotherapy, offers new hope for managing orbital tumors. These advanced treatments provide alternatives to traditional chemotherapy, reducing toxic side effects for patients unsuitable for surgery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Traditional palliative chemotherapy for orbital tumors has significant toxic side effects.
- Advancements in tumor biology and molecular genetics enable precision medicine approaches.
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy represent a new era in cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent updates on targeted and immunotherapy for orbital and periorbital tumors.
- To highlight the application of novel therapies in managing various orbital conditions.
- To provide an overview of current treatment strategies beyond conventional methods.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advancements in targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
- Analysis of clinical applications for specific orbital and periorbital tumors.
- Synthesis of data on efficacy and side effect profiles of new treatments.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy show promise for various orbital tumors, including basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and adenoid cystic carcinoma.
- These precision medicine approaches offer improved outcomes with potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
- The article discusses applications for conditions like orbital meningioma, neurofibromatosis, and ocular adnexal lymphoma.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapy and immunotherapy are becoming integral to managing orbital and periorbital tumors.
- These novel treatments offer personalized options for patients, especially those with poor surgical candidacy.
- Continued research is essential to further refine and expand the use of these advanced therapies.
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