Role and Benefits of Radiation Therapy

Inflammatory orbital pseudotumour, lymphoid hyperplasia

Modest doses of radiation dose are well tolerated and arrest progression. Subsequent cataract is likely. Multidisciplinary assessment is required and radiotherapy is considered after a demonstrated non-response to steroids. Lymphoma must be excluded to the fullest extent reasonable.

Graves’ orbitopathy

Radiotherapy in moderate doses may prevent further inflammatory episodes, decrease edema, and arrest progression, but does not usually correct severe proptosis. It is often given in conjunction with orbital decompression procedures.

Multidisciplinary assessment is required and radiotherapy is usually considered after demonstrated non-response to steroids.

Choroidal hemangioma

Role of radiation: Low dose fractionated radiotherapy can arrest progression. Vision will not recover in the presence of foveal detachment.

How to Obtain a Referral

Opinions from Radiation Oncology and/or Ophthalmology regarding management or treatment of ocular/orbital structures, including effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy on normal tissues can be obtained by contacting:

Lee Penney
Manager, Ocular Oncology Clinic
Tel: (416) 946-4501 ext 5430
Fax: 416-946-2189

Inquiries may also be made directly to Drs Payne, Laperriere, or Millar.

This page was last updated August 3rd, 2010 at 2:25pm.