CRYOTHERAPY FOR CONJUNCTIVAL LYMPHOID TUMORS

Lymphoid tumors of the conjunctiva traditionally are treated with radiation therapy. Twelve patients with 42 lymphoid tumors were treated with liquid nitrogen spray and were followed up for 26 to 139 months (mean, 75 months). Twenty-eight (67%) tumors resolved with a single treatment, 39 (93%) with a second treatment, and 41 (98%) with a third treatment. Systemic lymphoma developed in two (17%) of 12 patients. These results are comparable to those with radiation therapy. The results of this case series indicate that cryotherapy for certain conjunctival lymphomatous tumors may be a viable option, because of fewer ocular and systemic complications and lower cost.