Use of Topical Chemotherapy for Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia.

Abstract

Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) includes lesions ranging from mild dysplasia to invasive squamous cell carcinoma, affecting the conjunctiva and cornea. While surgical excision has traditionally been the standard treatment, topical chemotherapy, such as 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), has proven to be an effective and less invasive alternative. This approach treats both visible and subclinical lesions, preserves ocular anatomy, and avoids surgical complications.

A clinical case involved a 37-year-old male patient presenting with a progressive lesion in the right eye. Ultrabiomicroscopy confirmed OSSN without evidence of deep ocular wall infiltration. The treatment plan consisted of intermittent cycles of 5-FU over four weeks, effectively managing side effects like conjunctival hyperemia with lubricants and steroids.

After five months of treatment, a significant reduction in lesion size was achieved. This case underscores the efficacy of 5-FU as a non-surgical alternative for OSSN, demonstrating good tolerability and optimal outcomes when combined with close clinical follow-up.