A Cause of Radioresistance in Retinoblastoma: Photorecptor Differentiation
Abstract
Forty-two eyes in which there were residual retinoblastomas following radiotherapy were examined histopathologically. Forty percent of the tumors showed areas of photoreceptor differentiation. Three histopathologic patterns were noted. Some tumor nodules consisted entirely of cells showing photoreceptor differentiation while other tumor nodules consisted of cells mingled with glial cells or undifferentiated retinoblastoma cells. Detailed clinical descriptions before and after radiation therapy were available on four of the tumor nodules. These tumor nodules were described as grayish, translucent, or 'fish flesh' in appearance. In the follow up of 13 patients, only 1 tumor death was recorded. This study suggests that, while the tumors with photoreceptor differentiation are relatively benign histopathologically, they are comparatively resistant to radiotherapy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0717812
Entities
People
- Ben S. Fine
- Lorenz E. Zimmerman
- Mark O. Ts'o
- Robert M. Ellsworth
Organizations
- Armed Forces Institute of Pathology