Rescue intra-arterial chemotherapy in unilateral multirelapsed peripapillary retinoblastoma: Decision making and the role of MRI

Eur J Ophthalmol. 2022 Jan;32(1):NP208-NP211. doi: 10.1177/1120672120957586. Epub 2020 Sep 9.

Abstract

Introduction: In this case report we report our experience with rescue intra-arterial chemotherapy in a case of multi-relapsed peripapillary Retinoblastoma (RB) and the importance of high resolution MRI in detecting possible optic disc infiltration.

Case report: In 2007, a 14 month-old caucasian girl was referred to our ocular oncology unit for leukocoria. Only left eye was interested, with a single mass of the posterior pole. Patient underwent six cycles of systemic chemotherapy and focal laser consolidation. Several relapses occurred during follow-up. Selective intra-arterial chemotherapy (SIAC) with Melphalan was performed and type IV remission was achieved. A new relapse occurred next to the optic disc. MRI was performed and we decided to try to save the globe with a rescue cycle of SIAC.

Conclusion: MRI has demonstrated to be useful in decision making in RB, giving us a last chance to save the globe.

Keywords: Retinoblastoma; acute ischemic optic neuropathy; ocular oncology; paediatric ophthalmology; selective intra-arterial chemotherapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Decision Making
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infusions, Intra-Arterial
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Melphalan
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Retinal Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Retinal Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Retinoblastoma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Retinoblastoma* / drug therapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Melphalan