Photodynamic therapy for iris metastasis from a mediastinal carcinoid tumor

Intraocular metastasis from a carcinoid tumor is a rare event with anecdotal reports of iris involvement. We describe a case of iris metastasis from a carcinoid tumor treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT).Abstract PURPOSE: Intraocular metastasis from a carcinoid tumor is a rare event with anecdotal reports of iris involvement. We describe a case of iris metastasis from a carcinoid tumor treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT). METHODS: An isolated iris tumor was observed in a 36-year-old man. Anterior segment photography, fluorescein angiography, and fine-needle aspiration biopsy were performed. The tumor was treated with a bolus application of PDT. Regular follow-up (including clinical and angiographic evaluations) was performed over 2 years. RESULTS: The iris mass was cytologically consistent with metastasis from a mediastinal carcinoid tumor. The metastasis showed prominent vascularization. Bolus PDT was applied with complete and long-term regression of the iris tumor. At the 24-month follow-up, the patient was still alive, and no recurrence had been documented. CONCLUSIONS: PDT may be an effective therapeutic option in selected cases of iris metastasis.