Safer Eye Chemo for Kids: Intravitreal Topotecan Success in Retinoblastoma

In Hyderabad, the LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) ran a study in children with retinoblastoma (a rare but serious eye cancer). Traditionally, recurrences or resistant tumors are treated with intravitreal injections of melphalan, but at higher doses that can damage the retina.

In this new work, they used topotecan (100 micrograms injected into the eye) for recurrent or resistant tumors. Among seven children treated, tumor control was achieved in ~71% of cases, no observed retinal damage, and all eyes were saved.

As a doctor, this gives hope: a therapy that’s effective and safer for vision preservation. For pediatric oncologists and ophthalmologists, this means we may soon have an option that balances tumor control with lower risk of harming vision, especially in India where retinoblastoma burden is significant.