Liquid Biopsy and Ocular Tumors: A Review

Purpose: To explore the various applications of liquid biopsy (LB) in ophthalmology and provide a comprehensive discussion on its utility in the field. Methods: A thorough exploration of the literature was conducted, and a total of 47 articles were included. Results: In RB, where conventional tumor biopsies carry risks of spreading the tumor beyond the eye, LB, particularly from the aqueous humor, emerges as a promising alternative. It provides a secure means of detecting cfDNA. In addition, LB is effective in uveal melanoma, particularly through digital droplet PCR, in mutation detection and predicting disease progression. Moreover, vitreous LB proves highly effective in diagnosing vitreoretinal lymphoma, exhibiting greater sensitivity than traditional cytopathological methods. This noninvasive approach not only enhances diagnostic accuracy but also holds potential for guiding biologically targeted therapies, showcasing the ongoing advancements in LB technology poised to redefine and revolutionize the field. Conclusion: These findings offer valuable insights for personalized treatment strategies in ocular malignancies.