Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy for parasellar meningiomas: a preliminary report of visual outcomes.
OBJECTIVE
Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (FSRT) is a new treatment for brain tumours that are close to critical structures, such as the visual apparatus. This study aims to assess the visual outcomes for patients with parasellar meningioma following FSRT.


METHODS
A retrospective, non-comparative case series of 13 patients with parasellar meningiomas who were treated in one institution with FSRT between January 1995 and January 2001.


RESULTS
13 patients (26 eyes) were followed for a mean of 2 years. Visual acuity improved in four eyes (12.5%), remained stable in 18 eyes (75%), and worsened in three eyes (12.5%). Visual field improved in 15 eyes (57%), remained stable in six eyes (23%), and worsened in four eyes (15%). No adverse visual outcome occurred as a result of radiation.


CONCLUSIONS
These preliminary findings suggest that FSRT is a safe and effective treatment for parasellar meningiomas.
Behbehani
R S
RS
Neuroophthalmology Service, Wills Eye Hospital, 840 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. r_behbehani@hotmail.com
McElveen
T
T
Sergott
R C
RC
Andrews
D W
DW
Savino
P J
PJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008577:Meningeal Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D008579:Meningioma / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011878:Radiotherapy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity / Q000502:physiology; D014794:Visual Fields / Q000502:physiology