[Trans-pupillary hyperthermia of malignant choroid melanoma. Initial experiences].

UNLABELLED: The purpose of this report is to evaluate the efficacy of transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) to treat choroidal melanoma.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Twelve patients with choroidal melanoma were treated. Four with small tumors close to the posterior pole received TTT alone; 8 were treated simultaneously with TTT and Ru-106 brachytherapy. To perform TTT a diode laser with a beam diameter of 3 mm was used. Exposure time ranged from 60 to 90 s until the retinal surface became light gray. Follow-up examinations were performed at 1-month intervals. If the tumor was partially regressed, additional TTT was performed to reach the endpoint of a chorioretinal scar.

RESULTS

All tumors exhibited a reduction of tumor height in a maximal follow-up period of 6 months. Four cases showed complete regression within 3 months. Side effects were minimal.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with TTT may be useful as a complementary modality to brachytherapy. A longer follow-up time is necessary for final evaluation.