Experimental Study of Orbital Metastasis in Rabbits with VX-2 Carcinoma

The VX-2 Carcinoma was used to create a model of the orbital metastasis in rabbits.

0.5ml suspension containing 20-30×10⁷ cells of VX-2 Carcinoma was injected into the 36 orbits of 18 rabbits. With 3 to 4 day interval. tumors were evaluated with ultrasonography and carotid arteriography.

Ultrasonography findings revealed a well-defined. hyperechoic mass with central necrosis. and invasion of the orbital wall and the optic canal. The tumors appeared hypervascular lesion with carly venous drainage and vascular sweeping on carotid arteriography.

Pathologically, the tumor consisted of compacted high mitotic adenocarcinoma. with large vacuolated nuclei and profuse cytoplasm. Massive infiltration into the orbital wall and the retrobulba also found.

This animal model quickly. consistently and inexpensively produced orbital mass lesions. It is well suited for ophthalmologic oncologic research focused imaging modalities. and multimodality of treatment approach to the orbital mass lesion.