Intra-Arterial Chemotherapy for Retinoblastoma: Four-Year Results from Tertiary Center in India

Abstract

Background: There are limited reports of intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) for retinoblastoma (RB) from developing world. Objectives: In this study, we report our 4-year experience of IAC for RB from India. Methods: Retrospective, interventional case series. Primary outcome measures included tumor regression, vitreous seeds and subretinal seeds control, and globe salvage. Secondary outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity and treatment complications. Results: Fifteen eyes underwent 53 IAC procedures over mean 28.6 ± 13.8 months (range 10–51 months). IAC was employed as primary (n = 6) or secondary (n = 9) chemotherapy. Following IAC, complete regression of main tumor was seen in 7 eyes (47%) and partial regression in 3 (20%) eyes. Enucleation was done in 5(33%) eyes. Globe salvage rates were achieved in 1 eye (100%) in group B, 2 eyes (67%) in group C (n = 3), 6 eyes (67%) in group D (n = 9), and 1 eye (50%) in group E (n = 2). Following IAC, Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed 93% globe survival rate at 1 year, 76% at 2 years, and 66% at 3, and 4 years. Conclusion: IAC has enhanced globe salvage rates in eyes with RB. Multicenter studies with longer follow-up are necessary to better understand outcomes in the long term.