A report on the outcome of topical mitomycin C as the primary treatment for ocular surface squamous neoplasia

Background: Although surgical excision is still the gold standard treatment for ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN), interest in conservative medical approaches is steadily growing due to its advantages. The clinical outcome of topical mitomycin C (MMC) as the primary treatment for OSSN was reported. The primary outcome measure was clinical regression of the tumour. The secondary Outcome measures were duration of treatment, possible side effects and recurrences. Materials and methods: In this prospective study 11 patients with the diagnosis of OSSN were included. All were treated with mitomycin C eye drops 0.02% 4 times daily for 4 days a week. Results: Out of the 11 patients, complete tumour regression was achieved in 6 (54.5%) patients. The remaining 5 patients reported partial tumour regression. Mean duration of treatment was 6 weeks. The most common side effect noted was eye irritation. The side effect was transient and resolved with the cessation of treatment. No recurrence was observed during the follow up. Conclusion: Topical chemotherapy can be tried as primary treatment in all patients with OSSN as it can cause complete or partial tumour regression with negligible side effects. Keywords: ocular surface squamous neoplasia; mytomycin C; tumour regression