Retinal Gliovascular Proliferation Secondary to Retinoblastoma Treated With Radiotherapy

Retinal gliovascular proliferation (RGVP) is a benign lesion of the retina that can arise idiopathically or secondary to another disease entity. This study describes the clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of six patients with secondary RGVP associated with irradiated, regressed retinoblastoma, and distinguishes it from late local relapse of retinoblastoma.

In a retrospective review of available clinical records of 550 patients evaluated for retinoblastoma in a single ocular oncology practice between 1975 and 2022, seven eyes of six patients were identified as having secondary RGVP overlying a treated and regressed retinoblastoma. The clinical features, treatment, and outcomes are described.

The median age at RGVP diagnosis was 20 years. All RGVPs were associated with a completely regressed retinoblastoma and in proximity to a calcific tumor residue or chorioretinal atrophy that remained after external beam radiotherapy (six eyes) or plaque brachytherapy (one eye). Lesions were measured between 2.8 to 12 mm in largest basal diameter and 1.3 to 4.4 mm in thickness and described as globular, raised areas with focal retinal telangiectasis often associated with overlying subretinal fluid or hemorrhage. Median time between initial retinoblastoma treatment and detection of RGVP was 20 years. Treatment was decided based on evidence of lesion growth and most often consisted of laser photocoagulation and intravitreal anti-VEGF injection. Through available follow-up of the treated lesions, all exhibited at least partial regression, while two untreated lesions remained stable, reassuring us against late local relapse of retinoblastoma.

Secondary RGVP develops occasionally in association with regressed previously irradiated retinoblastoma. This lesion must be distinguished from late local relapse of active retinoblastoma. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2024;55:714-720.].