Abstract
Purpose :
Cavernous hemangiomas and lymphangiomas represent benign neoplasms of the orbit. While the pathophysiology is poorly understood, many of these lesions are considered congenital anomalies that can accelerate in growth later in life. Treatment can be challenging, especially in large lesions close to the orbital apex. We sought to study the presence of vascular growth factor receptors (VEGF) in ocular cavernous hemangiomas and lymphangiomas to further understand the feasibility of anti-VEGF treatment.
Methods :
Single-center study at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of patients who underwent surgical excision of orbital cavernous hemangiomas and lymphangiomas from 2000 – 2017. Retrospective chart review of pertinent patient demographics and clinical course and treatment were collected. Additional immunohistochemical staining were performed for VEGF receptor 1 and 2 and CD31. This study was approved by the University of Miami Institutional Review Board.
Results :
A total of 15 patients with cavernous hemangiomas and 10 patients with lymphangiomas were identified. In regards to cavernous hemangiomas, the mean presentation was 49.6 ± 11.7 years of age, the majority were male (53% of patients) and involved the left eye (73%). In regards to lymphangiomas, the mean presentation was 26.1 ± 24.8 years of age, the majority female (70% of patients) and involved the left eye (60%). Cavernous hemangiomas were seen more commonly intraconal (53%) compared to lymphangiomas (40%). Many lymphangiomas were found on the eyelid (50%) compared to cavernous hemangiomas (13%). No recurrences were noted after surgical excision of cavernous hemangiomas while two recurrences were noted after incomplete surgical excision of lymphangiomas. Immunohistochemical staining revealed the presence of VEGF receptors 1 and 2 and CD31 on all 6 samples.
Conclusions :
Cavernous hemangiomas and lymphangiomas are considered benign vascular lesions with presence of VEGF receptors that may support the adjunct use of anti-VEGF treatment. Additional immunohistochemical analysis and diagnostic testing is currently underway to better characterize the proposed mechanism of these vascular growths.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.