Authors' objectives:

This study examines the use of Transpupillary Thermotherapy (TTT)

Authors' results and conclusions: Bibliographical analysis shows that the most common application of TTT is on the following pathologies: choroidal melanoma, vascular malformations (choroidal hemangioma), age-related macular degeneration as a result of choroidal neovascularization and retinoblastoma.

Authors' recommendations: There is not enough evidence to support the use of TTT in Benign Vascular Malformations and in Age-related Macular Degenerations as a result of Choroidal Neovascularization. In Choroidal Melanoma, the indication of TTT as single treatment would apply to those patients with an apical height of up to 4mm and who do not show the following exclusion criteria: pupil unable to be adequately dilated; peripherically-located tumor non visible in its full extension with laser contact lenses and subretinal fluid more than 3 mm. TTT would be indicated as a therapy combined with brachytherapy in those tumors up to 8mm in apical height. In Retinoblastoma, the indication of TTT would apply to small tumors with no subretinal seeding and isolated vitreous and in moderate-size tumors (up to 3mm diameter) combined with chemotherapy.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.iecs.org.ar/

Year Published: 2003

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Argentina

Organisation Name: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy

Contact Address: Dr. Emilio Ravignani 2024, Buenos Aires - Argentina, C1414 CABA

Contact Name: info@iecs.org.ar

Contact Email: info@iecs.org.ar

Copyright: Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy (IECS)