BACKGROUND:  Ocular melanoma is the most common primary ocular cancer. It is typically treated with radiation, usually in the form of a radioactive plaque that is sewn to the wall of the eye for approximately one week and then removed. Regression rates exceed 95%. Some patients lose vision immediately because the tumor is under the central vision or the radiation has to be applied to the central vision (the macula). However, approximately 30-50% of patients lose vision 2-3 years after the plaque due to effects of the radiation on the retina or optic nerve. Treatment for radiation damage to the macula (maculopathy) or optic nerve (neuropathy) is not effective; the condition is irreversible. Radiation maculopathy or neuropathy could be prevented if the radiation could be blocked (attenuated) from hitting the opposite wall of the eye.

INNOVATION:  Researchers at UCLA have found a new use for specific FDA approved devices that block the radiation dose to intraocular structures when treating ocular melanoma.

ADVANTAGES

• Novel and only method to block the effect of radiation on the opposite wall of the eye
• Able to achieve local tumor control while simultaneously preserving vision in patients with ocular melanoma
• Best chance to maximally preserve vision after plaque radiotherapy
• New use of FDA approved devices with high efficacy, safety and ease of use

DEVELOPMENT-TO-DATE:  In vitro and in vivo cadaveric testing is complete and statistically validated. Animal studies are underway.

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2007-719