Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Orbital Cavernous Malformations and Lymphatic Malformations

PURPOSE: To investigate the presence of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR) in orbital cavernous malformations and lymphatic malformations to further understand the feasibility of anti-VEGF treatment. METHODS: This study was a single-center retrospective chart review performed at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of patients who underwent surgical excision of orbital cavernous malformations and lymphangiomas from 2000 – 2017. Immunohistochemical staining of these lesions for VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 expression was performed. RESULTS: A total of 25 patients were identified with cavernous malformations (n=15) and lymphatic malformations (n=10). Ten specimens (7 cavernous malformations, 3 lymphatic malformations) underwent further immunohistochemical analysis. Six of 7 cavernous malformations and one of 3 lymphatic malformations stained positive for VEGFR1 and VEGFR2. CONCLUSIONS: Both cavernous malformations and lymphatic malformations appear to express VEGFR with varying frequency. Additional studies are needed to better characterize the pathogenesis of these lesions, nature of VEGFR expression, and potential efficacy of anti-VEGF treatment.