Eye-sparing multidisciplinary approach for the management of lacrimal gland carcinoma

Background: We analyzed local control and early ocular toxicity after eye-sparing management of lacrimal gland carcinoma. Methods: For consecutive patients with lacrimal gland carcinoma treated during 2007 to 2014, we reviewed tumor characteristics, treatment details, ocular toxic effects, and recurrence. Results: Twenty patients, median age 55 years, were treated for lacrimal gland carcinoma during the study period; 11 had globe-sparing surgery. Seven patients had adenoid cystic carcinoma, 2 had carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, and 1 each had high-grade and low-grade adenocarcinoma. Ten patients underwent postoperative radiotherapy, median 60 Gy (range, 52–64 Gy), 6 with concurrent chemotherapy. At a median of 30 months after radiation, all patients had dry eye syndrome, and 1 patient had severe corneal and conjunctival damage leading to enucleation. All 11 patients were disease free at last contact, median follow-up after surgery of 33 months. Conclusion: An eye-sparing approach with surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy is feasible for selected patients with lacrimal gland carcinoma and is associated with a reasonable locoregional control and ocular toxicity profile.