Intraocular Lymphoma: Descriptive Data of 26 Patients Including Clinico-pathologic Features, Vitreous Findings, and Treatment Outcomes

Ocul Immunol Inflamm. 2018;26(3):347-352. doi: 10.1080/09273948.2016.1193206. Epub 2016 Jul 20.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, therapy, and outcomes of biopsy-proven intraocular lymphoma.

Methods: Review of tertiary referral center records between 2005 and 2015.

Results: A total of 51 eyes of 26 patients were included; mean age of onset was 60.42 years. Common ocular complaints included floaters (42%) and blurred vision (35%); 62% of patients had ocular and central nervous system involvement; 11% had systemic lymphoma; and 27% had only ocular involvement. Vitreous analysis was positive for malignant cells in 77% of patients on initial biopsy, and in 100% of patients on repeat biopsy. In total, 20/26 patients received systemic and topical treatment before IOL diagnosis was made; 25 patients received intravitreal methotrexate and/or rituximab; one patient received intracameral rituximab. All patients achieved remission by their final visit.

Conclusions: Intraocular lymphoma often masquerades as intraocular inflammation, resulting in delayed or misdiagnosis with subsequent inappropriate management. Optimal therapy is a challenge for oncologists and ophthalmologists.

Keywords: Clinical manifestations; intraocular lymphoma; masquerade syndrome; treatment outcomes; uveitis.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age of Onset
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Eye Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Eye Neoplasms / therapy
  • Female
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Lymphoma / diagnosis*
  • Intraocular Lymphoma / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vitrectomy
  • Vitreous Body / pathology*

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids