Management of Ocular Metastasis.
BACKGROUND: Intraocular metastasis is a significant clinical problem in patients with metastatic cancer. The frequency of intraocular metastasis in all patients dying of cancer is approximately 12%, but in breast cancer patients, the frequency can be as high as 37%. METHODS: A review of pertinent literature and the author's experience are used to describe the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of metastatic tumors of the eye. RESULTS: Intraocular metastases occur frequently and are diagnosed by ophthalmologic examination. Radiotherapy remains the cornerstone of therapy and allows the majority of patients to maintain useful vision for the remainder of their lives. CONCLUSIONS: The recognition and treatment of intraocular metastasis are important clinical oncologic issues. With proper management, patients with ocular metastasis can maintain vision and thus maximize quality of life.
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Division of Radiation Oncology, Northwestern University Medical Center, Chicago, Ill 60611, USA.