Immunoreduction of ocular surface tumours with intralesional interferon alpha-2a

Purpose To share our initial experience in the use of intralesional interferon alpha-2a at primary presentation in ocular surface tumours as a method of immunoreduction prior to definitive surgical management. Methods Case series of patients referred to Sheffield Ocular Oncology Service with rapidly growing ocular surface tumours, treated with intralesional interferon alpha-2a at first presentation prior to definitive surgical management. Results All three patients, two with conjunctival melanoma and one with ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) demonstrated immunoreduction of tumour without any adverse side effects. Conclusions Interferon alpha-2a is effective in conjunctival melanoma and OSSN. Intralesional interferon at first presentation may be used for immunoreduction prior to definitive surgical management. This may improve surgical and long-term outcomes, improve patient experience, and help meet cancer treatment targets.