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Introduction: Local therapies for high risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) such as intravesical chemotherapy (IVC) have shown a high rate of progression and recurrence (1). Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) for local therapies has been shown to reduce progression and recurrence in patient with NMIBC. However, its potential role is limited in high burden countries for tuberculosis (TB) due to its low specificity that can cause wrong diagnosis or false positive in patients with clinically diagnosed tuberculosis. BCG vaccine that has to be given for most people in tuberculosis endemic countries will induce trained immunity that could reduce the effectivity of intravesical BCG for NMIBC Moreover, intravesical BCG is contraindicated in patient with or previous tuberculosis. The potential clinical benefit of intraarterial chemotherapy (IAC) in delaying the recurrence and progression of high-risk NMIBC have been investigated with promising results (2, 3). We aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the potential anti-tumor effect of IAC in NMIBC. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of published articles in Cochrane Library, Pubmed, and Science-Direct to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing IAC alone or combined with IVC versus IVC/BCG alone in NMIBC. The protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) was applied to this study. Results: Four RCTs and 4 cohort observational studies were eligible in this study and 5 studies were included in meta-analysis. The risk ratio of tumor recurrence was reduced by 35% (RR = 0.65; 95% CI 0.49-0.87; p = 0.004) in IAC plus IVC, while recurrence-free survival (RFS) was prolonged by 45% (HR: 0.55; 95% CI, 0.44-0.69; p < 0.001). The risk of tumor progression was reduced by 45% (RR = 0.55; 95% CI 0.41-0.75; p = 0.002) and tumor progression-free survival (PFS) was also prolonged by 53% (HR: 0.47; 95% CI, 0.34-0.65; p < 0.001). Some RCT's had high or unclear risk of bias, meanwhile 4 included cohort studies had overall low risk of bias, therefore the pooled results need to be interpreted cautiously. Subgroup analysis revealed that the heterogeneity outcome of tumour recurrence might be attributed to the difference in NMIBC stages and grades. Conclusions: The IAC alone or combined with IVC following bladder tumor resection may lower the risk of tumor recurrence and progression. These findings highlight the importance of further multi institutional randomized controlled trials with bigger sample size using a standardized IAC protocol to validate the current results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Introduction: Local therapies for high risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) such as intravesical chemotherapy (IVC) have shown a high rate of progression and recurrence (1). Intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) for local therapies has been shown to reduce progression and recurrence in patient with NMIBC. However, its potential role is limited in high burden countries for tuberculosis (TB) due to its low specificity that can cause wrong diagnosis or false positive in patients with clinically diagnosed tuberculosis. BCG vaccine that has to be given for most people in tuberculosis endemic countries will induce trained immunity that could reduce the effectivity of intravesical BCG for NMIBC Moreover, intravesical BCG is contraindicated in patient with or previous tuberculosis. The potential clinical benefit of intraarterial chemotherapy (IAC) in delaying the recurrence and progression of high-risk NMIBC have been investigated with promising results (2, 3). We aimed to conduct a meta-analysis to evaluate the potential anti-tumor effect of IAC in NMIBC. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive search of published articles in Cochrane Library, Pubmed, and Science-Direct to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing IAC alone or combined with IVC versus IVC/BCG alone in NMIBC. The protocol of preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) was applied to this study. Results: Four RCTs and 4 cohort observational studies were eligible in this study and 5 studies were included in meta-analysis. The risk ratio of tumor recurrence was reduced by 35% (RR = 0.65; 95% CI 0.49-0.87; p = 0.004) in IAC plus IVC, while recurrence-free survival (RFS) was prolonged by 45% (HR: 0.55; 95% CI, 0.44-0.69; p < 0.001). The risk of tumor progression was reduced by 45% (RR = 0.55; 95% CI 0.41-0.75; p = 0.002) and tumor progression-free survival (PFS) was also prolonged by 53% (HR: 0.47; 95% CI, 0.34-0.65; p < 0.001). Some RCT’s had high or unclear risk of bias, meanwhile 4 included cohort studies had overall low risk of bias, therefore the pooled results need to be interpreted cautiously. Subgroup analysis revealed that the heterogeneity outcome of tumour recurrence might be attributed to the difference in NMIBC stages and grades. Conclusions: The IAC alone or combined with IVC following bladder tumor resection may lower the risk of tumor recurrence A systematic review and meta-analysis of intraarterial chemotherapy for non muscle invasive bladder cancer: Promising alternative therapy in high tuberculosis burden countries Zakaria Aulia Rahman 1, 2, Furqan Hidayatullah 1, 2, Jasmine Lim3, Lukman Hakim1, 4 1 Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga; 2 Dr. Soetomo General-Academic Hospital, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia; 3 Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; 4 Universitas Airlangga Teaching Hospital, Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia. DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2024.12154 Summary and progression. These findings highlight the importance of further multi institutional randomized controlled trials with bigger sample size using a standardized IAC protocol to validate the current results.

Purpose : The goal of this study was to compare the efficacy of intraarterial chemotherapy (IAC) for retinoblastoma delivered via the ophthalmic artery (OA) division of the internal carotid artery (ICA) versus alternative branches of the external carotid artery (ECA). Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients receiving IAC for retinoblastoma at a single institution. Subjects were divided into three groups: those that received IAC solely through the OA branch of the ICA, those that initially received IAC through the OA branch of the ICA but were later switched to the ECA, and those that only received IAC through the ECA. The main outcomes compared included globe salvage rate and reduction in tumor thickness and size. Results: A total of 30 eyes from 26 patients were included. A total of 91 (58%) sessions of IAC were performed through the OA division of the ICA and 65 (42%) were performed through branches of the ECA. Eleven eyes (37%) solely received IAC through the OA branch of the ICA, 16 eyes (53%) were converted to ECA treatment, and 3 eyes solely received IAC through branches of the ECA. Statistical analysis did not show any significant difference in globe salvage rate or reduction in tumor thickness and size. Conclusion: The use of alternative approaches for IAC when the OA branch of the ICA catheterization is not feasible allows for safe continued delivery of highly effective IAC, leading to similar outcomes in terms of globe salvage and reduction in tumor size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinoblatoma is now the pediatric cancer with the highest cure rate. More than any other ocular malignancy the approach to this cancer has changed dramatically in the past 10 years. Most of the things taught to the majority of all Ophthalmology residents is out of date. Because few Ophthalmologists deal with retinoblastoma they are not aware of these seismic changes so this summary of my Curtin lectures outlines some of the major changes all Ophthalmologists should be familiar with. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background In pursuit of a cure for cancer, it is imperative to utilize every tool, resource, and strategy. Included under this umbrella is the optimization of drug delivery. Broadly speaking, anti‐cancer treatment has been perpetually hindered by off‐target activity, systemic toxicity, and other adverse reactions. Intraarterial (IA) delivery of therapeutics is an approach that has garnered increased attention in recent years. This approach can deliver drug directly to the desired site with the potential to minimize systemic toxicity. Methods In this review, we briefly cover existing IA indications for peripheral solid tumors as a base from which we can learn, followed by trials and procedural considerations of IA drug delivery for neck, head, and central nervous system tumors. Results While the bulk of IA research and clinical trials have focused on drug delivery outside of the central nervous system, there have been recent encouraging results in IA tumor treatment within the neurointerventional arena, such as head and neck tumors, retinoblastoma, glioblastoma multiforme, and central nervous system lymphoma. Conclusion This review highlights the need for increased clinical research on IA chemotherapeutic delivery as a multi‐disciplinary approach involving neurointerventional surgeons.

Cell-free DNA analysis in cancer has gone from research to widespread clinical use in the past 10 years. At Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, we developed a technology and test to assay cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from blood (plasma) in our retinoblastoma patients. cfDNA derived from intraocular retinoblastoma can be measured and quantified in the blood (plasma) of patients. It is derived from the tumor cells themselves. Simulating lesions did not have cfDNA abnormalities. cfDNA disappears quickly after cutting the optic nerve (50% gone in 10 minutes) and if cfDNA is measurable after enucleation, metastases develop. Analysis of the buffy coat can detect germline defects including very low levels of mosaicism not detected with other NGS techniques. Analysis of the buffy coat also reveals non Rb1 germline predilections to second cancers. Analysis of cfDNA from blood of retinoblastoma patients can be used to diagnose and manage retinoblastoma and reflect an accurate molecular profile of RB1 abnormalities of the intraocular tumor. Analysis of the germline with the buffy coat detects very low levels of mosaicism not detected with conventional methods. Liquid biopsy for retinoblastoma is already in clinical use and offers information not available with any other technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. Determine the nature of tumor regression and possible complications associated with the retinotoxic effect of melphalan and carboplatin with local chemotherapy.Methods. A histological analysis of 19 enucleated eyes from 19 patients with retinoblastoma was performed after combined organ-preserving treatment, including systemic chemotherapy and local chemotherapy in various doses. The enucleated eyes were fixed in 10 % formalin and processed routinely for histological examination.Results. Significant changes in the tumor tissue such as tumor regression associated with the destruction of the tumor tissue and its replacement with fibrous tissue, glia proliferation, and the formation of petrificates were revealed. Complete regression of the tumor was detected in 3 out of 19 eyes, partial in 13 eyes. There were no signs of regression in 3 eyes. Tumor invasion into the choroid was found in 5 cases, into the anterior sector — in 3 cases, into the optic nerve — in 3 cases. The retrobulbar tumor was presented in 1 case. Retinotoxic complications revealed. Hemorrhagic changes associated with focal necrosis of the central retinal vessels (n = 4), destructive changes in retinal pigment epithelium (RPE; n = 10) associated with the accumulation of melphalan in RPE leading to atrophic processes in the retina. Complications in the form of secondary glaucoma, severe fibrosis and retinal detachment, despite the complete resorption of the tumor, led not only to loss of vision, but also hindered visualization of the fundus and substantiated the need for enucleation in 3 cases. In other cases, enucleation was performed due to continued tumor growth (n = 16) or progression during treatment (n = 3).Conclusions. Retinoblastoma can be controlled with local chemotherapy. However, clinical and morphological examinations of enucleated eyes revealed and confirmed, along with tumor resorption, intraocular complications as a result of the toxic effect of the drugs and the presence of active tumor tissue to varying degrees of therapeutic pathomorphism, which can be explained by the resistance of RB to these drugs. Thus, a further search is needed for drugs that destroy the tumor and minimize the retinotoxic effect.

The study objective is to evaluate the results of organ-preserving treatment of locally advanced larynx squamous cell carcinoma.Materials and methods. Analysis of 28 patients with locally advanced larynx squamous cell carcinoma (stages III-IV) who underwent treatment at the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology of the Ministry of Health of Russia between 2017 and 2020 was performed. At the first stage, 2-3 courses of combined inductive polychemotherapy per the DCF scheme with 21-day interval were performed (docetaxel 60 mg/m2, cisplatin 60 mg/m2 intraarterially bolus with detoxication with sodium thiosulfate, 5-fluorouracil 1000 mg/m2/day as 96-hour infusion). The second stage included external beam radiotherapy (60-70 Gy, 2 Gy per day 5 days a week) as monotreatment if complete clinical response after chemotherapy was achieved or with regional administration of cisplatin (60 mg/m2 once per 3 weeks) if after inductive stage full clinical response wasn»t observed.Results. In 20 (71.5 %) patients, complete clinical response was observed after inductive treatment; in 7 (25 %) patients, partial response was observed. Tumor stabilization was detected in 1 (3.5 %) patient. Two-year overall survival was 95.8 ± 4.1 %, progression-free survival was 90.1 ± 6.8 %.Conclusion. The proposed strategy of organ-preserving treatment of stage III-IV larynx cancer with substitution of systemic chemotherapy with regional intraarterial chemotherapy prior to radiotherapy is highly effective from the point of view of direct anti-tumor effect and recurrence-free and overall survival.

Background: Patients with unresectable recurrent rectal cancer (RRC) or colorectal cancer (CRC) with liver metastases, refractory to at least two lines of traditional systemic therapy, may receive third line intraarterial chemotherapy (IC) and targeted therapy (TT) using drugs selected by chemosensitivity and tumor gene expression analyses of liquid biopsy-derived circulating tumor cells (CTCs).Methods: In this retrospective study, 36 patients with refractory unresectable RRC or refractory unresectable CRC liver metastases were submitted for IC and TT with agents selected by precision oncotherapy chemosensitivity assays performed on liquid biopsy-derived CTCs, transiently cultured in vitro, and by tumor gene expression in the same CTC population, as a ratio to tumor gene expression in peripheral mononuclear blood cells (PMBCs) from the same individual. The endpoint was to evaluate the predictive accuracy of a specific liquid biopsy precision oncotherapy CTC purification and in vitro culture methodology for a positive RECIST 1.1 response to the therapy selected.Results: Our analyses resulted in evaluations of 94.12% (95% CI 0.71-0.99) for sensitivity, 5.26% (95% CI 0.01-0.26) for specificity, a predictive value of 47.06% (95% CI 0.29-0.65) for a positive response, a predictive value of 50% (95% CI 0.01-0.98) for a negative response, with an overall calculated predictive accuracy of 47.22% (95% CI 0.30-0.64).Conclusions: This is the first reported estimation of predictive accuracy derived from combining chemosensitivity and tumor gene expression analyses on liquid biopsy-derived CTCs, transiently cultured in vitro which, despite limitations, represents a baseline and benchmark which we envisage will be improve upon by methodological and technological advances and future clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Human papilloma virus-negative oropharyngeal cancer has not achieved satisfactory outcomes compared with those of human papilloma virus-positive oropharyngeal cancer. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of selective intraarterial chemoradiotherapy with the docetaxel and nedaplatin regimen for human papilloma virus-negative oropharyngeal cancer.Methods: Twenty-two consecutive patients with human papilloma virus-negative oropharyngeal cancer who had undergone selective intraarterial chemoradiotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. The primary tumor and whole neck were irradiated (50 Gy). Subsequently, the primary site and metastatic lymph nodes were boosted by 20 Gy. The intraarterial chemotherapy regimen comprised a combination of nedaplatin (80 mg/m2) and docetaxel (60 mg/m2), which was initially administered at the start of radiotherapy and was given every 4 weeks for three sessions. Each intraarterial dose of an anticancer agent was determined according to the percentage of the tumor volume supplied by the target artery to the total tumor volume, which was intraoperatively measured via cone-beam computed tomography. The outcome measures were locoregional control, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates and adverse events. Statistical analyses were performed using the Kaplan-Meier method.Results: The median follow-up period was 59 (range, 15-103) months. The T stage was T1/T2 in 5 patients (23%), T3 in 5 patients (23%), and T4 in 12 patients (54%). Cervical lymph node metastasis was staged as ≥N2c in 7 (32%) patients. Complete response was achieved in all patients at the first imaging examination after intraarterial chemoradiotherapy. The 5-year locoregional control, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates were 96% (95% confidence interval, 0.72-0.99), 91% (95% confidence interval, 0.68-0.98), and 100% (95% confidence interval, not available), respectively. Regarding serious acute adverse events, grade 4 laryngeal edema and leukopenia were observed in 1 (5%) and 11 patients (50%), respectively. No other serious acute adverse events were observed.Conclusion: Selective intraarterial chemoradiotherapy with docetaxel and nedaplatin has the potential to achieve favorable locoregional control, disease-free survival, and overall survival rates in human papilloma virus-negative oropharyngeal cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report one retinoblastoma patient with dual ophthalmic arteries (also known as "double ophthalmic arteries") arising from the internal carotid artery which fuse with each other inside the orbit. The caudal ophthalmic artery with larger caliber originated from the cavernous segment of internal carotid artery and passed through the superior orbital fissure. The cranial and tiny one arose more cranially from the supraclinoid internal carotid artery and passed through the optic canal. After superselective catheterization, frank anastomosis was shown between two ophthalmic arteries and the central retinal artery arose from the cranial one. To the best of our knowledge, this case is the first observation of a dual ophthalmic artery with cavernous/supracavernous origins fusing with each other proven by superselective ophthalmic angiography. Whether there is an anastomosis between two ophthalmic arteries is important for deciding which artery to be selected for intraarterial treatment. In cases of retinoblastoma, detailed angiographic analysis may be essential to examine the orbital arterial system and to avoid unexpected complications during intraarterial chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term treatment results of combined superselective intraarterial chemotherapy and radiation therapy for advanced maxillary sinus cancer (MSC) and the incidence of regional lymph node failure, and to reveal the clinical and anatomical predictive factors for metastasis. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 55 consecutive patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the maxillary sinus who were treated with external radiotherapy and superselective intraarterial chemotherapy. Elective nodal irradiation (ENI) was performed only in the clinical node-positive (cN+) cases and not in the clinical node-negative (cN0) cases. Results: Thirty-eight patients were cN0, and 17 were cN+ at diagnosis. Regional lymph node metastases occurred in 7 of 38 patients with cN0, and 2 of 17 with cN+ during the median follow-up period of 36 months. There were more cases of high-grade (3 or 4) late adverse events in the ENI group than in the non-ENI group (13% vs. 41%, respectively; p = 0.03). In cN0 cases without ENI, invasion of the pterygoid plates (57% vs. 90%; p

We report the case of a 9-month-old girl with bilateral retinoblastoma who had incomplete tumor resolution after selective ophthalmic artery infusion chemotherapy (SOAIC). Systemic chemotherapy, rarely used as salvage therapy after SOAIC, with systemic carboplatin, etoposide, and vincristine achieved complete and sustained regression in both eyes.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term treatment results of combined superselective intraarterial chemotherapy and radiation therapy for advanced maxillary sinus cancer (MSC) and the incidence of regional lymph node failure, and to reveal the clinical and anatomical predictive factors for metastasis.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated 55 consecutive patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the maxillary sinus who were treated with external radiotherapy and superselective intraarterial chemotherapy. Elective nodal irradiation (ENI) was performed only in the clinical node-positive (cN+) cases and not in the clinical node-negative (cN0) cases.Results: Thirty-eight patients were cN0, and 17 were cN+ at diagnosis. Regional lymph node metastases occurred in 7 of 38 patients with cN0, and 2 of 17 with cN+ during the median follow-up period of 36 months. There were more cases of high-grade (3 or 4) late adverse events in the ENI group than in the non-ENI group (13% vs. 41%, respectively; p = 0.03). In cN0 cases without ENI, invasion of the pterygoid plates (57% vs. 90%; p < 0.01) and oral cavity (35% vs. 92%, with invasion vs without invasion, respectively; p = 0.02) was significantly correlated with a low 5-year regional recurrence-free rate.Conclusions: Patients with MCS and invasion of the pterygoid plates and oral cavity can be considered appropriate candidates for ENI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a potentially fatal intraocular malignancy in children, and hand-held optical coherence tomography (HH-OCT) can assist in submillimeter detection and monitoring after treatment of Rb. Retinoblastoma located in the macula, or those with chemo resistance, can be among the most difficult to manage. We describe HH-OCT features in a case of chemo resistant macular Rb that eventually responded to plaque radiotherapy after failing intravenous chemotherapy and intraarterial chemotherapy. Methods: Observational case report. Results: A 15-month-old girl with leukocoria was found to have Group D Rb in the right eye of 6-µm thickness and macular Group B Rb in the left eye of 4-µm thickness. She was treated with 6-monthly cycles of systemic intravenous chemotherapy and focal consolidation therapies to both eyes, with tumor regression in both eyes. However, macular tumor in the left eye demonstrated subsequent recurrence, from regressed thickness of 792 µm on HH-OCT to a dome-shaped hyperreflective retinal mass of .2000 µm thickness. Three cycles of intraarterial chemotherapy were sufficient for tumor regression down to 977 µm thickness on HH-OCT. Six months later, macular tumor in the left eye recurred again to .2000 µm thickness and necessitated plaque radiotherapy using apex dose of 35 Gy over 95.25 hours. Hand-held OCT confirmed rapid tumor regression to 722 µm after plaque treatment and regression remained stable at 6-month follow-up. Conclusion: Hand-held OCT was critical in assessment of Rb after failed intravenous chemotherapy and intraarterial chemotherapy and later documenting regression after plaque radiotherapy. Hand-held OCT is vital in providing cross-sectional imaging and measurements of small macular and paramacular Rbs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinoblastoma stands as a paradigm of success in treating malignancies among pediatric patients. Over recent decades, the approach to managing retinoblastoma has evolved significantly, transitioning from the preservation of patients' lives to the preservation of eyes and vision while minimizing treatment-related complications. Chemotherapy, administered through diverse routes, has solidified its role as the cornerstone of retinoblastoma treatment. In addition to intravenous chemotherapy (IVC), alternative administration routes, including intraarterial (IAC), intravitreal, intracameral, and periocular delivery, have emerged as promising modalities for retinoblastoma management. Numerous studies have demonstrated outstanding outcomes, achieving nearly 100% salvage rates for eyes classified under groups A-C. However, for advanced intraocular retinoblastoma (groups D and E eyes), IAC appears to offer superior local control rates compared to IVC. Intravitreal injection of chemotherapeutic agents, when administered in a controlled and secure manner, holds promise in averting the need for enucleation and radiotherapy in advanced retinoblastoma cases presenting with vitreous seeds. The optimal chemotherapy strategy remains meticulously tailored based on numerous factors. This review provides a comprehensive update on chemotherapy across various routes, encompassing key considerations, dosages, administration methods, treatment outcomes, and potential complications. Furthermore, it explores emerging potential treatments and outlines future directions aimed at enhancing treatment outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

We report two pediatric retinoblastoma patients with unusual ophthalmic artery (OA) origins who were referred to our interventional neuroradiology department for intraarterial chemotherapy. The first patient had double OAs arising from the ipsilateral internal carotid artery and a central retinal artery (CRA) arising from the more cranially located artery, whereas the second patient had an OA originating from the A1 segment of the ipsilateral anterior cerebral artery. In both cases the CRA arose from the artery entering the orbit through the optic foramen. Both patients tolerated the procedures well. To the best of our knowledge, our retinoblastoma patients with unusual OA origins are the first in the literature in which detailed knowledge of the orbital vasculature and especially CRA origin carried immediate clinical implications, altering access strategies. These variations were proved both by flat-panel detector computed tomography findings and superselective injections of OAs with unusual origins. Our results show that in patients with retinoblastoma, a detailed angiographic work-up may be necessary to evaluate the orbital vasculature and possible abnormal origin of the OA. Recognition of possible variations of OA origin and its branching patterns is of the utmost importance for successful treatment and avoidance of adverse events among retinoblastoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the feasibility and safety of percutaneously implanted arterial port catheter systems for hepatic arterial infusion of chemotherapy (HAI) in patients with unresectable liver malignancies. From October 2010 to August 2018, arterial port catheters for HAI were percutaneously implanted in 43 patients with unresectable liver malignancies. Three different catheter placement techniques were compared: a conventional end-hole catheter placed in the common hepatic artery (technique 1, n = 16), a side-hole catheter with the tip fixed in the gastroduodenal artery (technique 2, n = 18), and a long-tapered side-hole catheter with the tip inserted distally in a segmental hepatic artery (technique 3, n = 6). Catheter implantation was successful in 40 (93%) of the 43 patients. Complications related to catheter placement were observed in 10 (23%) patients; 5 (83%) of the 6 major complications were resolved, as well as all 4 minor complications. Catheter migration and occlusion occurred in 9 (22.5%) patients. Catheter migration was more frequent with technique 1 (n = 6) than with technique 2 (n = 1), although the difference was not significant (p = 0.066). Percutaneous arterial port catheter implantation for HAI is highly feasible and carries a low risk of complications.

We report the case of a 9-month-old girl with bilateral retinoblastoma who had incomplete tumor resolution after selective ophthalmic artery infusion chemotherapy (SOAIC). Systemic chemotherapy, rarely used as salvage therapy after SOAIC, with systemic carboplatin, etoposide, and vincristine achieved complete and sustained regression in both eyes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retinoblastoma is a deadly eye cancer in children, leading to death in 50%–70% of children in undeveloped nations. Unfortunately, this aggressive tumor is the most common intraocular malignancy worldwide. For the last 2 decades, intravenous (IV) chemotherapy has been the mainstay of treatment for retinoblastomas. This route has provided improved control in retinoblastoma, with sparing of the eye and vision in some cases. More recently, intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) has become the first line treatment for advanced and refractory retinoblastoma in many centers worldwide. The advances in treatment along with early tumor detection are responsible for the favorable prognosis found in developed nations. IAC classically uses the ophthalmic artery (OA) in attempt to deliver the maximal dose of chemotherapy while minimizing systemic complications. However, direct catheterization of the ophthalmic artery (OA) is not always possible. The purpose of this article is to describe a case where the OA has been thrombosed and an alternative access route using the middle meningeal artery (MMA) was used.

Purpose: To report a case of clinically invisible retinoblastoma recurrence detected only on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Methods: Case report. Results: A 3-week-old girl with bilateral familial retinoblastoma underwent six cycles of intravenous chemoreduction. Both eyes showed tumor regression. After 6 cycles of chemoreduction, the tumor in the right eye appeared with clinical regression; however, by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, there was 40 mm increase in thickness and 290 mm increase in basal diameter. Due to tumor proximity of 1.85 mm to the foveola, the recurrence was treated via intraarterial chemotherapy with two cycles of Melphalan 3 mg. After treatment, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography showed complete regression of the recurrent tumor to a flat scar with intact fovea. Conclusion: Precise submillimeter imaging with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for monitoring retinoblastoma is important and can allow detection of early recurrences that might be clinically invisible otherwise, as well as surveillance of the fovea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: It is well known that many anastomoses can join the external carotid system and the ophthalmic artery. However, their frequency has never been reported. Since they can be relevant for interventional radiologists operating in the orbit, we decided to illustrate and determine the frequency of the anastomoses that can be found in children. Methods: A retrospective study of 443 angiographic procedures (via ophthalmic artery and/or external carotid artery) carried out on 97 children affected by intraocular retinoblastoma was made to investigate the arterial anatomy of 106 orbits. Results: Anastomoses were observed in 44.33 % of orbits. However, their true frequency is likely much higher as the rate of visualization increased up to 91.11 % of orbits when the angiographic study was extended to the external carotid artery. In order of frequency we detected the following anastomoses: lacrimal artery-middle meningeal artery, lacrimal artery-anterior deep temporal artery, ophthalmic artery-middle meningeal artery, ophthalmic artery-facial artery, supraorbital artery-superficial temporal artery, supratrochlear artery-superficial temporal artery, supraorbital artery-middle meningeal artery, dorsal nasal artery-infraorbital artery, supraorbital artery-zygomaticoorbital artery, lacrimal artery-zygomaticoorbital artery. Conclusion: When properly searched, anastomoses between the ophthalmic artery and the external carotid artery are almost constant in children. Depending on the clinical scenario, they can represent dangers or valuable alternative routes for collateral circulations and intraarterial chemotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]