How Do You Prevent Radiation Retinopathy?

Radiation damage is an irreversible, non-fixable, and un-curable state. Thankfully this is exactly what we need to destroy cancer. However, when healthy tissues get damaged by radiation, there is nothing we can do that will return the damaged tissue to its original healthy state. In order to prevent radiation retinopathy and damage, there are three things that can be done: 1) Diagnose and treat small melanomas early; the smaller the tumor, the less radiation is needed to destroy it. 2) Use notched plaques sparingly and only when the melanoma is wrapped more than 180 degrees around and touching the optic nerve. 3) Use silicone oil (which is denser than water) to shield the healthy retinal tissue from radiation during brachytherapy treatment.  We do not discuss the use of Avastin (bevacizumab) and anti-VEGF agents to prevent radiation retinopathy, because the data shows no significant benefit to treating prophylactically with Avastin. Also, because not everyone gets radiation retinopathy, we at UCLA save anti-VEGF therapy use for those people who DO begin to develop radiation retinopathy and continue treatments as long as there is SUBJECTIVE visual benefit.  Welcome to Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma, a guide to understanding everything there is to know about your experience with this rare cancer. Learn through the lens of my knowledge and clinical experience as a physician expert and passionate patient advocate. The more you know about ocular melanoma, the better you will do, and the better you will live. Let's go! The content shared on the Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided must not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As a listener, you are responsible for your own health-related decisions and must consider consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.  Tara McCannel MD PhD is a an ocular oncologist, vitreoretinal surgeon and co-founder of Seyhart Wellness. She is also the host of the Mind Body MD podcast where she shares her passion for holistic health and wellness.