Removal of Radiation-Induced Cataracts in Patients Treated for Retinoblastoma

Authors:
  • DMDavid Meyer
    David Meyer
  • JSJerry A. Shields
    Jerry A. Shields
  • ABAndrea G. Balas
    Andrea G. Balas
  • LNLeonard B. Nelson
    Leonard B. Nelson
  • JFJames Fontanesi
    James Fontanesi
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Abstract
• Experience with removal of radiation-induced cataract in patients treated for retinoblastoma is limited. We retrospectively reviewed the records of 38 patients with retinoblastoma (42 eyes) who underwent removal of radiation-induced cataract from 1973 to 1989. Nineteen eyes (45%) without macular tumors or severe radiation complications had final visual acuities in the range of 20/20 to 20/50. One eye (2.4%) developed a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and four eyes (9.5%) were noted to have amblyopia after cataract removal. Three eyes (7%) developed retinoblastoma recurrence, one with extension of retinoblastoma into the subconjunctival space through the previous sclerotomy. Exenteration was performed and the patient was alive after 8 years. Cataract removal can be visually beneficial in selected patients with radiation-induced cataracts.

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