Therapeutic Evaluation of Interferon Alpha 2b in Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia

Abstract

Background: To evaluate the efficacy of Interferon alpha-2b (IFN α-2b) in the management of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia (OSSN), including its roles in immunotherapy, immunoreduction, and immunoprevention.

Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted over a one-year period at a tertiary care hospital. The study included 30 patients diagnosed with OSSN who had received treatment with IFN α-2b and provided informed consent for participation. Medical records were reviewed to assess treatment outcomes and adverse effects.

Results: Among the 30 patients analyzed, immunotherapy was achieved in 13 patients (43.33%), immunoreduction in 6 patients (20%), and immunoprevention in 11 patients (36.66%). The treatment was well tolerated, with only minor side effects reported as conjunctival hyperemia in 2 patients (6.66%) and flu-like symptoms in 2 patients (6.66%). No adverse effects were observed in 26 patients (86.66%). Also, no recurrences of OSSN were noted during one year follow-up period.

Conclusion: Interferon alpha-2b appears to be a safe and effective treatment modality for OSSN, demonstrating potential as a primary approach for immunotherapy, immunoreduction, and immunoprevention. Given its favourable safety profile and efficacy, IFN α-2b may serve as a non-surgical alternative and could potentially replace surgery as the standard of care in OSSN cases.