Ocular Manifestations Associated with Hematologic Malignancies: Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Management

Yehan Xiao1, Yaru Zou1, Mingming Yang1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Institute of Science Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan.

Background: Hematologic malignancies (HMs), including leukemia and lymphoma, are systemic diseases that may cause a wide range of ocular manifestations. Methods: We searched PubMed/MEDLINE (2015-2026) and identified articles with an emphasis on clinically relevant studies and recent developments. Results: Clinically, ocular involvement presents with diverse manifestations, including retinal hemorrhage, vitreoretinal lymphoma, choroidal infiltration, orbital masses, treatment-related ocular toxicities, graft-versus-host disease, and secondary infectious complications. These findings may mimic other ocular diseases and consequently lead to delayed diagnosis. In some cases, ocular manifestations may represent the initial presentation of hematologic malignancies or indicate disease recurrence. Diagnostic evaluation relies on comprehensive ophthalmic examination, imaging, and laboratory analysis. Management strategies include systemic treatment of the underlying malignancy, local ocular therapy, and targeted treatment of infectious or treatment-related complications. Conclusions: Ocular manifestations of hematologic malignancies have significant diagnostic and prognostic implications. Early recognition, multidisciplinary collaboration, and comprehensive ophthalmic assessment are essential for timely diagnosis and optimal management. Improved awareness of disease-related, treatment-related, and infection-related ocular manifestations may facilitate earlier intervention and contribute to better visual and systemic outcomes.

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