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Inoperable Orbital Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma Treated With Radiation Therapy
Naomi E Gutkind1, Sugi Panneerselvam, Lauren C Kiryakoza
1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.
Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|February 13, 2025
Summary
Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas (EH) are rare vascular tumors. This case shows radiotherapy may offer initial palliative benefits for extensive orbital EH, despite eventual metastatic spread.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Vascular Tumors
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Epithelioid hemangioendotheliomas (EHs) are rare vascular tumors.
- Orbital EHs are exceptionally rare, with limited case reports.
- EHs can originate from bone or soft tissue, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EH) of the orbit.
- To discuss the initial treatment and long-term outcome of orbital EH.
- To evaluate the role of radiotherapy as a palliative therapy for extensive orbital EH.
Main Methods:
- A case study of an 81-year-old woman with inoperable right orbital EH.
- Clinical presentation included decreased vision, proptosis, and facial numbness.
- Diagnostic imaging and biopsy confirmed EH; treatment involved orbital radiotherapy.
Main Results:
- Initial radiotherapy led to improvement in proptosis, vision, and tumor size.
- Despite initial response, the patient developed metastatic spread 20 months later.
- Eventual enucleation was required due to disease progression.
Conclusions:
- Orbital EH is a rare entity requiring careful management.
- Radiotherapy can provide temporary palliative benefits for extensive orbital EH.
- This case suggests a potential role for radiotherapy in managing advanced orbital EH, though long-term outcomes remain a concern.
