Title: Orbital and Ocular Complications of External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT) for Retinoblastoma (Rb)
Authors: Dr Nibedita Acharya, Dr Usha Vasu
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i6.84
Abstract
Introduction: External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) was the preferred form of management of moderately advanced retinoblastoma in late 1900s. But because of its serious side-effects, and also the availability of other safer treatment options EBRT is being used less often now.
Aim: The aim of this study is to highlight the Orbital and Ocular Complications of External Beam Radiation Therapy, their recognition and prevention.
Materials and Methods: Retrospective data analysis of retinoblastoma patients who presented to our institution over past 14 years were done. The case records of patients with minimum follow up of 6 months and maximum follow up of 10 years were included in the study. The stage of retinoblastoma and type of external beam radiotherapy given to them was documented. The complications observed after external beam radiotherapy treatment were noted down. Details of the treatment given to these patients were documented.
Results: Total 46 patients were included in the study. Of this 29 children received only Unilateral EBRT (Group I) while 17 received bilateral EBRT (Group II). Contracted socket was the most common complication seen in both the groups – 17 in group I and 11 in group II. Second common complication was ocular surface abnormalities which kept on recurring in spite of treatment. Other complications observed were facial hypoplasia, radiation retinopathy, orbital cellulitis, cataract etc.
Conclusion: Since external beam radiotherapy is still used to treat the late stage of Retinoblastoma in poor Indian patients, awareness of complications of EBRT is worthwhile. Keeping the side effects in mind, it is always preferable to advise other modalities of treatment for retinoblastoma instead of EBRT.
Keywords: External beam radiotherapy, Retinoblastoma, contracted socket.
