Radiotherapy-induced ocular surface disease

Today radiation is routinely used as a therapeutic modality for select tumors of the orbit, adnexa, paranasal sinus, and nasopharynx. Despite significant improvements in mechanisms of delivery and protective shielding, acute and chronic complications of radiation can affect different segments of the eye. In this report, we provide an overview of ocular damage secondary to radiotherapy. We identify the characteristic clinical changes and underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms involving the ocular surface and provide a rational approach to their prevention and treatment.