Chemotherapy for adult tumors

Abstract

Chemotherapeutic agents continue to play an important role in the treatment of orbital disease in adult patients. The last decade has seen significant changes in both agents used and methods of delivery, with new, effective therapies now available in clinical practice. Local therapy has changed the treatment paradigm for ocular surface squamous neoplasia and adjuvant intra-arterial chemotherapy has shown promising results in the treatment of adenoid cystic carcinoma. Novel systemic therapies are available for basal cell nevus syndrome, malignant melanoma, and more, with numerous drugs undergoing phase III clinical trials, several with promising initial results. The breadth of pathology involving the orbit necessitates a broad range of chemotherapeutic agents and delivery methods. This chapter reviews historical chemotherapeutic treatments while focusing on newer therapies that are changing the treatment paradigm of adult orbital disease.