Combining Brachytherapy and Cryotherapy as Adjuvant Therapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Conjunctiva: Literature Review and Case Reports

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Separately, cryotherapy and brachytherapy have shown promising results when adjuvating the excision of squamous cell carcinoma of the conjunctiva (SCCC). The aim of this paper is to assess the combined effect in terms of complications and recurrence rate. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> We describe 2 patients suffering from SCCC, and we review the current literature on adjuvant cryotherapy and brachytherapy. Both patients, one of whom suffered from recurrent SCCC, underwent surgical excision followed by combined cryotherapy and brachytherapy. Cryotherapy was performed using a retinal cryoprobe, and 2 rounds each of 5 s with N₂O as a cryogen were applied. Brachytherapy was performed using a ruthenium-106 plaque, delivering a dosage of 100 Gy at 2-mm depth. <b><i>Key Messages:</i></b> By reviewing the current literature and describing 2 case reports, this paper illustrates the use of combined cryotherapy and brachytherapy after surgical excision of SCCC. The current literature presents promising results of each treatment, and the 2 cases showed promising results by combining the 2 adjuvant therapies showing no signs of recurrence or complications during a follow-up period of 26 and 38 months.