Abstract

Plaque brachytherapy and other radiation treatments have become an increasingly popular option for primary treatment of uveal melanoma since the publication of results from the Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study. Radiation therapy, however, can cause direct or indirect damage to important ocular structures outside of the tumor, especially to the lens, retina, and optic nerve. Recent advancements in plaque brachytherapy technology have allowed for the reduction of iatrogenic injury, though some radiation damage is still unavoidable and follow-up treatment options are limited. Before treating with plaque brachytherapy or other radiation options, physicians must evaluate tumor-and patient-level risk factors for extensive radiation damage and discuss the risks and benefits of such a treatment with patients. In the years following radiation therapy for uveal melanoma, patients should also be followed closely by an ophthalmologist to assess for the delayed onset of radiation damage.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationUveal Melanoma
Subtitle of host publicationBiology and Management
PublisherSpringer International Publishing
Pages115-134
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9783030781170
ISBN (Print)9783030781163
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2021

Keywords

  • Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor
  • Plaque brachytherapy
  • Radiation retinopathy
  • Radiation therapy
  • Uveal melanoma

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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