Radiotherapy for Malignant Lymphoma of Orbit and Ocular Adnexa

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To investigate the clinical features of orbital and ocular adnexal malignant lymphoma and the effectiveness of radiotherapy for its treatment. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 54 eyes in 44 patients who were diagnosed with orbital and ocular adnexal malignant lymphoma and who underwent radiotherapy. RESULTS: The main symptoms of malignant lymphoma patients were conjunctival mass, lid mass, lid swelling, and exophthalmos. Histopathologically, MALT-lymphoma was the most common in 39 patients (88.6%). In all 54 eyes of the 44 patients, the mass either decreased or disappeared completely after radiotherapy. The mean follow-up period was 31 months, ranging from 4 to 68 months. There was no recurrence of malignant lymphoma in the orbit or ocular adnexa during this period. However, there were three cases where the tumor recurred in other systemic organs. Complications of radiotherapy included mild punctate epithelial erosion, xerophthalmia, cataract, and retinopathy. CONCLUSIONS: Localized radiotherapy is an effective and safe way to treat malignant lymphoma of the orbit and the ocular adnexa. In order to decrease complications, the use of lens shielding and optimized radiation amount should be considered.