New Paradigm in Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia—Insights from a Case Report on the Use of Interferon in Treatment

Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia (OSSN) is the most common non-melanocytic ocular surface tumor. Treatment options include surgery and topical or injectable therapies, with interferon alpha-2b (IFNα−2b) being a well-tolerated immunomodulatory agent. This case report aims to explore the use of topical IFNα−2b in a patient with multiple OSSN recurrences.

A 65-year-old woman with a history of recurrent conjunctival papilloma, confirmed as OSSN, was treated with excision and cryotherapy, followed by subconjunctival IFNα−2b injections and eventually topical IFNα−2b (3 million international units-MIU/mL, four times daily for 12 weeks) after further recurrence. Initial discomfort and redness were reported shortly after starting topical therapy, but significant lesion regression was observed. After eight weeks, complete clinical remission was achieved. Despite premature discontinuation due to drug unavailability, no relapse was observed during a 3-year follow-up.

This case underscores the clinical effectiveness and favorable tolerability of topical interferon alpha-2b in the management of recurrent ocular surface squamous neoplasia. The achievement of durable remission after a shortened treatment course highlights its potential as a flexible therapeutic option, with meaningful implications for clinical practice, particularly in settings with limited access to biologic therapies.