Survival and Recurrence in Vitreoretinal Lymphoma Simulating Uveitis at Presentation: The Possible Role of Combined Chemotherapy

Ocul Immunol Inflamm. 2022 Oct-Nov;30(7-8):1833-1841. doi: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1962916. Epub 2021 Aug 11.

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the role of combined systemic and local chemotherapy in improving the survival of patients with vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL).

Methods: Patients with VRL consecutively seen from 2006 to 2020 were retrospectively reviewed; data on the presence and time of central nervous system (CNS) involvement and treatment regimen (systemic, local or combined chemotherapy) were collected. Overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated for each group.

Results: Forty-three eyes of 22 subjects with histology-proven VRL were included. Mean time of survival was 64.8 months (SE±10.8). Twelve patients (57%) presented CNS involvement, which was significantly associated with progression (r = 0.48, P = .03) and death (r = 0.56, P = .009). The isolated primary VRL group had a 5-year OS of 80%. Combined systemic and local chemotherapy reduced the risk of death by 82% (hazard ratio 0.18[0.04- 0.85]) in the entire cohort.

Conclusion: Combined systemic and local chemotherapy significantly improved OS but not PFS of patients affected by VRL.

Keywords: CNS involvement; Vitreoretinal lymphoma; chemotherapy; survival; uveitis masquerade syndrome.

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lymphoma* / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma* / drug therapy
  • Retinal Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Retinal Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Uveitis
  • Vitreous Body