Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy reduces vision loss in the optic nerve sheath meningiomas

Meningiomas of the optic nerve sheath tumors are rare, traditionally associated with a transaction, which is usually a blinding procedures are handled. However, researchers at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital have discovered a particular type of radiotherapy in local control offers the same, with fewer adverse effects on vision. The researchers presented their data at the 51st Annual ASTRO Meeting (Abstract # 2676/B-261). Fractionated stereotactic radiation therapy is a specific type of radiotherapy, which allows an effective dose of radiation to tumors, but avoids other structures around it. In the case of optic nerve sheath meningioma, the lens of the eye and brain cells are spared from the Robert, MD, a resident in radiation oncology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

"Fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy is beneficial because it is a noninvasive means of achieving disease control, while allowing patients to their daily lives without being hampered by a major surgery," said Dr. Dan.

The doctor and his colleagues conducted a retrospective analysis of 58 patients with optic nerve sheath meningiomas who were treated with fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy between 1996 and 2006. They reviewed patient records for information technology and radiation therapy for treatment results, local control, visual acuity and acute toxicity, and are included in the processing delay. The median follow-up was 70 months.

On the basis of MRI is the local tumor control radiation more than 95%. Visual acuity was stabilized or improved in 92% of patients. Four patients had deterioration of vision. One patient developed optic neuritis and central retinal vein occlusion developed. There were no grade 3 or higher late complications.

"This was the largest cohort of U.S. patients with meningioma of the optic nerve sheath treated with stereotactic fractionated radiotherapy," said Dr. Dan. "There is no difference in the quality of outcome and quality of life of patients was much better. This should be the quality of care for patients with meningiomas of the optic nerve sheath.