1
|
Boltz A, Spöttl T, Huf W, Weingessel B, Vécsei-Marlovits VP. Effect of intravitreal injections due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration on retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and minimum rim width: a cross sectional study. BMC Ophthalmol 2024; 24:185. [PMID: 38654214 PMCID: PMC11036677 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03453-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The present study tested the hypothesis that repeated anti-VEGF injections are associated with reduced retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and minimum rim width (MRW) of the optic nerve head. PATIENTS AND METHODS Sixty-six patients with a history of intravitreal injections due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration were included. RNFL and MRW were measured using optical coherence tomography (Spectralis OCT, Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany). RESULTS Mean global RNFL was 90.62 μm and both RNFL as well as MRW significantly decreased with advanced age (p = 0.005 and p = 0.019, respectively). Correlating for the number of injections, no significant impact on RNFL was found globally (p = 0.642) or in any of the sectors. In contrast, however, global MRW was significantly reduced with increasing numbers of intravitreal injections (p = 0.012). The same holds true when adjusted for the confounding factor age (RNFL p = 0.566 and MRW p = 0.023). CONCLUSION Our study shows that repeated intravitreal injections due to choroidal neovascularization seem to have a deleterious effect on MRW but not on RNFL. This suggests that MRW is a more sensitive marker than RNFL for evaluating the effect of frequent intravitreal injections on the optic nerve head since it seems to be the first structure affected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Boltz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hietzing Hospital, Wolkersbergenstraße 1, Vienna, 1130, Austria.
- Karl-Landsteiner Institute for Process Optimization and Quality Management in Cataract Surgery, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Tanja Spöttl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hietzing Hospital, Wolkersbergenstraße 1, Vienna, 1130, Austria
- Karl-Landsteiner Institute for Process Optimization and Quality Management in Cataract Surgery, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Huf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hietzing Hospital, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for Clinical Risk Management, Vienna, Austria
| | - Birgit Weingessel
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hietzing Hospital, Wolkersbergenstraße 1, Vienna, 1130, Austria
- Karl-Landsteiner Institute for Process Optimization and Quality Management in Cataract Surgery, Vienna, Austria
| | - Veronika Pia Vécsei-Marlovits
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hietzing Hospital, Wolkersbergenstraße 1, Vienna, 1130, Austria
- Karl-Landsteiner Institute for Process Optimization and Quality Management in Cataract Surgery, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vilares-Morgado R, Correia V, Ferreira AM, Alves F, Melo AB, Estrela-Silva S, Araújo J, Tavares-Ferreira J, Silva M, Rocha-Sousa A, Carneiro A, Barbosa-Breda J. Effect of Repeated Intravitreal Injections in Glaucoma Spectrum Diseases. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:3613-3627. [PMID: 38026596 PMCID: PMC10676727 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s441500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate whether repeated intravitreal injections (IVI) with an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent are associated with glaucomatous progression in eyes with glaucoma spectrum diseases (GSD). Methods Single-center, retrospective, longitudinal study of patients with bilateral and similar GSD who: (1) received ≥8 IVI in only one eye during the study period; (2) had ≥2 retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFL) measurements obtained by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) at least 12 months apart. The primary outcome was the absolute RNFL thickness change, comparing injected and fellow uninjected eyes. Linear mixed effects models were constructed, including a multivariable model. Results Sixty-eight eyes from 34 patients were included, 34 injected and 34 fellow uninjected eyes. Average baseline age was 67.68±21.77 years with a follow-up of 3.66±1.89 years and 25.12±14.49 IVI. RNFL thickness decreased significantly from 80.92±15.78 to 77.20±17.35 μm (p<0.001; -1.18±1.93 μm/year) in injected eyes and from 79.95±17.91 to 76.61±17.97 μm (p<0.001; -1.07±0.98 μm/year) in uninjected eyes. In a multivariable linear mixed model of injected eyes, only higher baseline RNFL thickness (p < 0.001) significantly predicted higher absolute RNFL thickness loss. Neither absolute RNFL thickness variation (p=0.716) nor RNFL rate (p=0.779) was significantly different between paired injected and uninjected eyes. Absolute IOP variation was not significantly different between groups (16.62±4.77 to 15.09±4.34 mmHg in injected eyes and 17.68±5.01 to 14.50±3.39 mmHg in fellow uninjected eyes; p=0.248). The proportion of eyes receiving glaucoma medical treatment increased significantly in both groups (55.9% to 76.5% in injected eyes; p=0.039; 58.8% to 76.5% in uninjected eyes; p = 0.031). The number of glaucoma medications also increased significantly in both groups (1.03±1.11 to 1.59±1.18 glaucoma medications in injected eyes; p=0.003; 1.09±1.11 to 1.56±1.19 glaucoma medications in uninjected eyes; p=0.003). Conclusion Repeated IVI do not seem to accelerate glaucomatous progression. Future studies with a longer follow-up are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Vilares-Morgado
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- UnIC@RISE, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Correia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Ferreira
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Flávio Alves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - António Benevides Melo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Estrela-Silva
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Araújo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Tavares-Ferreira
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Silva
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Amândio Rocha-Sousa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- UnIC@RISE, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Angela Carneiro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- UnIC@RISE, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Barbosa-Breda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal
- UnIC@RISE, Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- KULeuven, Research Group Ophthalmology, Department of Neurosciences, Leuven, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Daka Q, Špegel N, Atanasovska Velkovska M, Steblovnik T, Kolko M, Neziri B, Cvenkel B. Exploring the Relationship between Anti-VEGF Therapy and Glaucoma: Implications for Management Strategies. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4674. [PMID: 37510790 PMCID: PMC10380425 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A short-term increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) is a common side effect after intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy, but a sustained increase in IOP with the development of secondary glaucoma has also been reported in some studies after repeated intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. The aim of this review is to present and discuss the possible pathophysiological mechanisms and factors contributing to a sustained rise in IOP, as well as treatment strategies for patients at risk. Close monitoring and adjustable IOP-lowering treatment are recommended for high-risk patients, including those with glaucoma, angle-closure anomalies, ocular hypertension or family history of glaucoma; patients receiving a high number of injections or at shorter intervals; and patients with capsulotomy. Strategies are needed to identify patients at risk in a timely manner and to prevent sustained elevation of IOP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qëndresë Daka
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo
- Eye Clinic, University Clinical Centre of Kosova, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Špegel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Tjaša Steblovnik
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miriam Kolko
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Ophthalmology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, 2600 Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Burim Neziri
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, University of Prishtina, 10000 Prishtina, Kosovo
| | - Barbara Cvenkel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zivkovic M, Radosavljevic A, Zlatanovic M, Jaksic V, Davidovic S, Stamenkovic M, Todorovic I, Jaksic J. Influence of Multiple Anti-VEGF Injections on Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer and Ganglion Cell-Inner Plexiform Layer Thickness in Patients with Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:medicina59010138. [PMID: 36676762 PMCID: PMC9862962 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59010138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Backgrounds and Objectives: To analyze the influence of multiple anti-VEGF intravitreal injections for exudative age-related macular degeneration on the thickness of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC + IPL) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Materials and Methods: A prospective interventional study of consecutive patients treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) was performed. Average and sectorial values of RNFL and GC + IPL thickness were recorded using Cirrus SD-OCT at 0, 6, 12, and 24 months. Patients suffering from any ocular disease that could affect RNFL or GC + IPL thickness were excluded. Results: A total of 135 patients (70 women and 65 men, aged 65 ± 15 years) were included. The average number of injections per patient was 12.4 ± 2.4. Average RNFL and GC + IPL thickness prior to the first injection (87.6 ± 12.2 and 47.2 ± 15.5 respectively), and after 24-month follow-up (86.2 ± 12.6 and 46.7 ± 11.9 respectively) did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). There was a significant decrease in GC2, GC5 segments, and minimum GC + IPL thickness. Conclusion: Repeated anti-VEGF treatment did not cause significant changes in the thickness of RNFL and GC + IPL layers over a period of 24 months. The detected decrease in GC2 and GC5 sectors, as well as in minimum GC + IPL thickness, could be a sign of ganglion cell damage induced by the treatment or could occur during the natural course of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Zivkovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia
- Ophthalmology Eye Hospital “Clinic Maja”, 18000 Nis, Serbia
| | - Aleksandra Radosavljevic
- School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Eye Clinic, University Clinical Center of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +381-11-2688-997; Fax: +381-11-2688-164
| | - Marko Zlatanovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Nis, 18000 Nis, Serbia
- Ophthalmology Eye Hospital “Clinic Maja”, 18000 Nis, Serbia
| | - Vesna Jaksic
- School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
- Eye Clinic, Clinical Center Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sofija Davidovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | | | - Ivana Todorovic
- Eye Clinic, Clinical Center Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jana Jaksic
- Eye Clinic, Clinical Center Zvezdara, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gunay BO, Esenulku CM. Retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell layer thickness changes following intravitreal aflibercept for age-related macular degeneration. Cutan Ocul Toxicol 2022; 41:91-97. [PMID: 35135401 DOI: 10.1080/15569527.2022.2034843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effect of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections on peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFLT) and macular ganglion cell layer thickness (GCLT) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients during a 1-year follow-up. METHODS This is a prospective study including 34 patients who were treated with aflibercept for treatment-naive nAMD. Following a loading phase of 3-monthly aflibercept, re-injections were performed on a pro re nata regimen for 12 months. Best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and spectral-domain-optical coherence tomography analysis were performed at baseline and 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months following treatment. Peripapillary RNFLT and macular GCLT along with the central macular thickness (CMT) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) were evaluated at each visit. RESULTS Mean number of aflibercept injections was 6.0 ± 1.8. Significant thinning was observed at the central macular ganglion cell layer and at 1 mm superior, temporal, and nasal ganglion cell layer compared to baseline at 1-year (p < 0.05). No significant change of RNFLT was shown (p > 0.05). Mean CMT and SFCT were significantly reduced after IVA therapy (p < 0.05, for both). No correlation was found between injection number and GCLT change. CONCLUSIONS Intravitreal aflibercept caused significant ganglion cell layer thinning during a 1-year follow-up without any changes in RNFLT. Intravitreal aflibercept itself may have a chance to induce decreased GCLT in nAMD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Betul Onal Gunay
- University of Health Sciences, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Cenap Mahmut Esenulku
- University of Health Sciences, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Trabzon, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Levin AM, Chaya CJ, Kahook MY, Wirostko BM. Intraocular Pressure Elevation Following Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Injections: Short- and Long-term Considerations. J Glaucoma 2021; 30:1019-1026. [PMID: 34086610 PMCID: PMC8635259 DOI: 10.1097/ijg.0000000000001894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Published studies agree that transient intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes are common after intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents. Currently, there is no standard of care guiding if and when to prevent these IOP spikes. Furthermore, there are challenges in determining the impact of postinjection IOP elevation on the health of the retinal ganglion cells, particularly given the often-existing comorbidities of retinal and glaucoma pathology. This review highlights the current literature regarding both acute and chronic postinjection IOP elevations and discusses management of postinjection IOP elevation, especially in patients at high risk for glaucomatous damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariana M. Levin
- John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Craig J. Chaya
- John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Malik Y. Kahook
- Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Eye Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Barbara M. Wirostko
- John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Swaminathan SS, Kunkler AL, Quan AV, Medert CM, Vanner EA, Feuer W, Chang TC. Rates of RNFL Thinning in Patients with Suspected or Confirmed Glaucoma Receiving Unilateral Intravitreal Injections for Exudative AMD. Am J Ophthalmol 2021; 226:206-216. [PMID: 33359714 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2020.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study evaluated whether the rate of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thinning is faster in eyes receiving intravitreal injections than in fellow uninjected eyes among patients suspected of having or confirmed to have glaucoma and exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). DESIGN Retrospective comparative cohort study. METHODS Patients with a diagnosis of unilateral exudative AMD and confirmed to have or suspected of having glaucoma in both eyes receiving unilateral intravitreal injections were identified. Those with ≥3 RNFL optical coherence tomography scans and ≥6 injections were included in the study. Rates of RNFL thinning in the injected eye versus the uninjected eye were estimated using linear mixed models. The main outcome measurement was the differences in rates of RNFL thinning in the injected versus the fellow uninjected eye. The effects of postinjection elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP), injection frequency, and number of injections were also evaluated. RESULTS A total of 53 patients met the inclusion criteria, receiving 26.4 ± 15.9 intravitreal injections. The average rate of RNFL thinning in uninjected eyes was -0.620 μm/year (P = .029). Injected eyes had an additional incremental loss of -0.385 μm/year, but this value was not statistically significant (95% confidence interval [CI]: -1.147 to 0.379 μm/year; P = .324). Subgroup analysis with only glaucoma patients (n = 33) also demonstrated a nonsignificant effect of injections (-0.568 μm/year; 95% CI: -1.454 to 0.319 μm/year; P = .212). Postinjection IOP elevation, injection frequency, and total number of injections were not associated with faster RNFL loss. CONCLUSIONS Among exudative AMD patients with glaucoma or suspected of having glaucoma, the rate of RNFL thinning in eyes receiving intravitreal injections did not significantly differ from that of fellow uninjected eyes.
Collapse
|
8
|
Effect of intravitreal ranibizumab and aflibercept injections on retinal nerve fiber layer thickness. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5010. [PMID: 33658584 PMCID: PMC7930121 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84648-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose is to evaluate the effects of multiple intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) and aflibercept (IVA) injections on peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This retrospective, observational, consecutive case series study enrolled patients newly diagnosed with monocular exudative AMD from January 2014 to October 2019 who were administered IVR or IVA injections. Normal fellow eyes were included as controls. Medical records and spectral domain optical coherence tomography results were reviewed at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after injection. No statistically significant differences in peripapillary RNFL thickness and intraocular pressure were observed between the treated and fellow eyes in the two groups. The global RNFL thicknesses for the treated eyes decreased significantly after 12 months compared with baseline, but no significant difference was observed in any of the six examined sectors (temporal, superior temporal, superior nasal, nasal, inferior nasal, and inferior temporal). At 12 months, the central macular thickness of the treated eyes decreased significantly. Multiple IVR and IVA injections are apparently safe considering peripapillary RNFL damage in patients with exudative AMD. The decreased RNFL thickness of the global sector was presumably due to anatomical improvement of macular lesions.
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang L, Swaminathan SS, Yang J, Barikian A, Shi Y, Shen M, Jiang X, Feuer W, Gregori G, Rosenfeld PJ. Dose-Response Relationship between Intravitreal Injections and Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Thinning in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmol Retina 2020; 5:648-654. [PMID: 33045458 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2020.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine if multiple intravitreal injections of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors for unilateral exudative age-related macular degeneration (eAMD) are associated with thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), we compared RNFL thickness measurements from the injected eye with that of the fellow eye with nonexudative age-related macular degeneration (neAMD). DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS Patients undergoing anti-VEGF therapy for unilateral eAMD. METHODS Patients receiving anti-VEGF therapy secondary to eAMD in 1 eye with neAMD in their fellow eye were identified. Patients with a known diagnosis of glaucoma were excluded. Spectral domain OCT measurements of the peripapillary RNFL thickness from both eyes were performed and compared. The differences in the RNFL thickness measurements between eyes were correlated with the number of injections and the duration of therapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Correlation between the number of anti-VEGF injections and peripapillary RNFL thinning. RESULTS A total of 108 eyes of 54 patients were evaluated in this study. The average peripapillary RNFL thickness measurements of the injected eye and fellow eye were 87.3 ± 9.6 μm and 89.0 ± 7.5 μm, respectively (P = 0.055). The RNFL thickness difference (fellow eye minus injected eye) was significantly correlated with the number of injections (r = 0.40, P = 0.002) and months of injections (r = 0.38, P = 0.005). The relationship between the difference in the RNFL thickness and the number of injections had a nonlinear dose-response relationship that became apparent after approximately 30 injections and 50 months of injections. CONCLUSIONS The difference in RNFL thickness measurements between injected eyes and uninjected fellow eyes was largely within the reported normal limits for interocular differences between healthy eyes. Nevertheless, there was a dose-response relationship between RNFL thinning and number of injections among patients receiving a greater number of injections, suggesting that anti-VEGF injections may have a modest effect on the RNFL thickness after several years of therapy in eyes requiring more anti-VEGF injections; however, we cannot exclude that the RNFL thinning may be secondary to active age-related macular degeneration (AMD) disease progression in both eyes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Swarup S Swaminathan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Anita Barikian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Yingying Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Mengxi Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Xiaoshuang Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - William Feuer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Giovanni Gregori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Philip J Rosenfeld
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
de Vries VA, Bassil FL, Ramdas WD. The effects of intravitreal injections on intraocular pressure and retinal nerve fiber layer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13248. [PMID: 32764619 PMCID: PMC7411061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70269-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of eye diseases treated with intravitreal injections is increasing. Obviously, an injection of fluid into the eye results in an increase of intraocular pressure (IOP), the main risk factor for glaucoma. However, the effect of these repeated IOP increases on the eye is unclear. Therefore, we performed a systematic review with meta-analyses. PubMed, Embase and Clinical Trials Registries were searched for articles investigating the relationship between intravitreal injections (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor [anti-VEGF] or steroids) and either IOP, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL)-thickness and glaucoma. Multiple meta-analyses were performed, combining data on intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF medication and dexamethasone implants. A total of 74 articles were eligible for meta-analyses. The short-term effect of an intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF showed a statistically significant increase in IOP. One day after injection of anti-VEGF, however, IOP was significantly lower than baseline. The long-term time-intervals showed no significant difference in IOP. After intravitreal injection of a dexamethasone implant, IOP was significantly higher than baseline 1 month post-injection. RNFL-thickness was significantly reduced 6 and 12 months post-injection of anti-VEGF, as well as at end of follow up. Caution is advised when using intravitreal medication, especially when treating patients with advanced glaucoma; in these cases, prophylactic IOP-lowering medication may be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor A de Vries
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Fabiana L Bassil
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wishal D Ramdas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Effect of Intravitreal Injections on Retinal Imaging Metrics in Glaucomatous and Non-Glaucomatous Eyes. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2020; 8:111-119. [PMID: 33738146 DOI: 10.1007/s40135-020-00235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To summarize the available literature on retinal imaging metrics in the context of intravitreal injections in glaucomatous and non-glaucomatous eyes. Recent Findings The retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in injected non-glaucomatous eyes appears to thin at a similar rate to uninjected fellow eyes. A total of four studies evaluating RNFL thinning in injected glaucomatous eyes yielded mixed results, with more recent longitudinal investigations suggesting a potential association. The ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer is also being studied as a potential endpoint in both glaucomatous and non-glaucomatous eyes following intravitreal injections.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lee SW, Sim HE, Park JY, Kim JS, Chang IB, Park YS, Hwang JH. Changes in inner retinal layer thickness in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration during treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e19955. [PMID: 32332680 PMCID: PMC7220743 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000019955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify any changes that occur in the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) during treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections.Patients were enrolled in this retrospective study if they had exudative AMD, had received at least 3 injections of ranibizumab or aflibercept, and had a minimum of 12 months of follow-up. We analyzed the changes in the RNFL and GC-IPL using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in rescan mode.Fifty-two eyes of 52 patients who had been treated with repeated anti-VEGF injections for exudative AMD were included. At the final visit, there was no significant between-group difference in best-corrected visual acuity or intraocular pressure. There was a significant decrease in central macular thickness in all groups (P < .05). There was a decrease in RNFL thickness that was only statistically significant in the ranibizumab group and when the ranibizumab or aflibercept groups were combined (P = .036 and .044, respectively). The thickness of the GC-IPL layer was significantly decreased in the aflibercept and total group (P = .035 and P = .048, respectively).The thicknesses of the RNFL and GC-IPL decreased in patients with exudative AMD who underwent repeated anti-VEGF injections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seong Woo Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul
| | - Ha Eun Sim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul
| | - Jae Yong Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul
| | - Jae Suk Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul
| | - In Beom Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Busan Paik Hospital, Inje University, Busan
| | | | - Je Hyung Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sanggye Paik Hospital, Inje University, Seoul
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kim SW, Woo JE, Yoon YS, Lee S, Woo JM, Min JK. Retinal and Choroidal Changes after Anti Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy for Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:184-189. [PMID: 30892159 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190319165824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate changes in retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer, and choroidal thickness in the macular area in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration who received repeated intravitreal ranibizumab and aflibercept treatments. METHODS This retrospective study included 90 eyes of 90 treatment-naive patients. Fifty eyes were treated with intravitreal injections of aflibercept, and 40 were treated with intravitreal injections of ranibizumab. Unaffected fellow eyes (71 eyes) were used as controls. The dosage was one injection per month for 3 consecutive months as an initial treatment. The patients were examined monthly for 6 months following the initial injection. Additional intravitreal injections were given reactively in an optical coherence tomography-guided "pro re nata" protocol. Measurements of the retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer, full retina, and choroidal thickness were simultaneously obtained via swept-source optical coherence tomography in the nine Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study subfields. RESULTS The retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in the nine Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study subfields did not differ significantly among the three study groups (aflibercept vs. ranibizumab vs. control). The ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness was significantly reduced in the aflibercept group, while the choroidal thickness was reduced in both the aflibercept and ranibizumab groups. CONCLUSION Excessive long-term vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition by an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent that is trapped by neuronal and retinal pigment epithelium cells may adversely affect the function of physiological vascular endothelial growth factor and harm retinal cells and vessels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Woo Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jong Eun Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Yo Sep Yoon
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Seunghwan Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Je Moon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| | - Jung Kee Min
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ulsan University Hospital, University of Ulsan, College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Inan ÜÜ, Baysal Z, Inan S. Long-term changes in retinal layers in patients undergoing intravitreal ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Int Ophthalmol 2019; 39:2721-2730. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-019-01116-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
|
15
|
Abdolrahimzadeh S, Gharbiya M, Formisano M, Bertini F, Cerini A, Pacella E. Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Intravitreal Therapy and Macular Ganglion Cell Layer Thickness in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Curr Eye Res 2019; 44:1000-1005. [DOI: 10.1080/02713683.2019.1610179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Solmaz Abdolrahimzadeh
- Ophthalmology Unit, NESMOS Department, “Sapienza” University of Rome, St. Andrea Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Magda Gharbiya
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Sense Organs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Formisano
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Sense Organs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Bertini
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Sense Organs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Cerini
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Sense Organs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Pacella
- Ophthalmology Unit, Department of Sense Organs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
EFFECT OF INTRAVITREAL RANIBIZUMAB ON GANGLION CELL COMPLEX AND PERIPAPILLARY RETINAL NERVE FIBER LAYER IN NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION USING SPECTRAL DOMAIN OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY. Retina 2018; 37:1314-1319. [PMID: 28574419 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000001360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the changes in ganglion cell complex and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness, in central macular thickness and choroidal thickness on spectral domain optical coherence tomography in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated with intravitreal ranibizumab injections. METHODS All consecutive patients with untreated neovascular age-related macular degeneration received loading phase of three monthly intravitreal ranibizumab, followed by retreatments on a pro re nata protocol for 12 months. PRIMARY OUTCOME changes in ganglion cell complex and retinal nerve fiber layer at the end of follow-up. Secondary outcome: changes in best-corrected visual acuity, central macular thickness, and choroidal thickness at the end of follow-up. Choroidal thickness was measured at 500 μm, 1000 μm, and 1,500 μm intervals nasally, temporally, superiorly, and inferiorly to the fovea, respectively, on horizontal and vertical line scans centered on the fovea. RESULTS Twenty-four eyes were included. Ganglion cell complex and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness did not show statistically significant changes through 12 months (55.6 ± 18.5 and 81.9 ± 9.9 μm at baseline, 52.7 ± 19.3 and 84.6 ± 15.5 μm at month 12, P > 0.05). Central macular thickness showed progressive decrease from baseline to month 12, with maximum reduction at month 3 (P < 0.001). Statistically significant reduction in choroidal thickness was registered in the nasal 500, 1000, and 1,500 μm from the fovea, corresponding to the papillomacular region (from 169.6 ± 45.3 to 153.9 ± 46.9, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Intravitreal ranibizumab injections did not affect retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell complex thickness in 1-year follow-up. Choroidal thickness in papillomacular area and central macular thickness was significantly reduced at the end of treatment. Further studies, with larger sample, longer follow-up, and greater number of injections, are warranted.
Collapse
|
17
|
Rate of Macular Ganglion Cell-inner Plexiform Layer Thinning in Glaucomatous Eyes With Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibition. J Glaucoma 2017; 26:980-986. [DOI: 10.1097/ijg.0000000000000776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
|
18
|
Bracha P, Moore NA, Ciulla TA, WuDunn D, Cantor LB. The acute and chronic effects of intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections on intraocular pressure: A review. Surv Ophthalmol 2017; 63:281-295. [PMID: 28882597 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2017] [Revised: 08/27/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The acute and chronic effects of repeated intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections on intraocular pressure have not been fully characterized, and the development of sustained ocular hypertension could adversely affect patients who are at risk of glaucomatous optic neuropathy. As expected, volume-driven, acute ocular hypertension immediately follows intravitreal injection, but this pressure elevation is generally transient and well tolerated. Several medications have been investigated to limit acute ocular hypertension following anti-VEGF therapy, but the benefits of pretreatment are not conclusive. Chronic, sustained ocular hypertension, distinct from the short-term acute ocular hypertension after each injection, has also been associated with repeated intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. Risk factors for chronic ocular hypertension include the total number of injections, a greater frequency of injection, and preexisting glaucoma. Proposed mechanisms for chronic ocular hypertension include microparticle obstruction, toxic or inflammatory effects on trabecular meshwork, as well as alterations in outflow facility by anti-VEGF agents. Although limiting anti-VEGF therapy could minimize the risk of both acute and chronic ocular hypertension, foregoing anti-VEGF therapy risks progression of various macular diseases with resulting permanent central vision loss. While definitive evidence of damage to the retinal nerve fiber layer is lacking, patients receiving repeated injections should be monitored for ocular hypertension and patients in whom sustained ocular hypertension subsequently developed should be periodically monitored for glaucomatous changes with optic nerve optical coherence tomography and static visual fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Bracha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
| | - Nicholas A Moore
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Retina Service, Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Darrell WuDunn
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Louis B Cantor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY ASSESSMENT OF VASCULAR EFFECTS OCCURRING AFTER AFLIBERCEPT INTRAVITREAL INJECTIONS IN TREATMENT-NAIVE PATIENTS WITH WET AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2017; 37:247-256. [PMID: 27628926 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000001145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate vessel changes occurring after aflibercept injections in treatment-naive exudative age-related macular degeneration patients. METHODS Fifteen eyes of 15 patients affected by wet age-related macular degeneration were enrolled in the study. All the patients had a diagnosis of Type 1 choroidal neovascularization and were treated with 3 monthly aflibercept intravitreal injections (IVI). Subjects were evaluated by means of optical coherence tomography angiography at baseline, the day after the first injection and one month after both the first and the second IVI. At last, all the patients were followed up to 2 months after the third IVI. RESULTS Foveal superficial vascular plexus flow density was 29.01% (21.13-37.32%) at baseline and was significantly reduced as soon as 1 month after the first IVI (median: 20.78%; interquartile range: 14.75-23.13%; P = 0.017). Parafoveal superficial vascular plexus flow density was 47.09% (44.91-51.72%) at baseline and significantly decreased as soon as 1 month after the second IVI (median: 44.40%; interquartile range: 41.59-49.29%; P = 0.034). Choroidal neovascularization lesion area remained stable throughout the follow-up. Nevertheless, interestingly, choroidal neovascularization flow area was significantly reduced as soon as the next day the first IVI (median: 0.37 mm and interquartile range: 0.27-0.72 mm at baseline; median: 0.30 mm and interquartile range: 0.24-0.64 mm at 1 day after the first IVI; P = 0.047). CONCLUSION Intravitreal aflibercept injections are associated with a significant change in native retinal and choroidal vasculature. Moreover, the treatment did not cause a reduction in lesion area, but rather reduced the flow in the choroidal neovascularization.
Collapse
|
20
|
Beck M, Munk MR, Ebneter A, Wolf S, Zinkernagel MS. Retinal Ganglion Cell Layer Change in Patients Treated With Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor for Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration. Am J Ophthalmol 2016; 167:10-7. [PMID: 27084000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2016.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate macular retinal ganglion cell thickness in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. DESIGN Retrospective case series with fellow-eye comparison. METHODS Patients with continuous unilateral anti-VEGF treatment for subfoveal and juxtafoveal neovascular AMD and a minimum follow-up of 24 months were included. The retinal nerve fiber (RNFL) and retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCL) in the macula were segmented using an ETDRS grid. RNFL and RGCL thickness of the outer ring of the ETDRS grid were quantified at baseline and after repeated anti-VEGF injections, and compared to the patients' untreated fellow eye. Furthermore, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), age, and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy were recorded and correlated with RNFL and RGCL. RESULTS Sixty eight eyes of 34 patients (23 female and 11 male; mean age 76.7 (SD ± 8.2) with a mean number of 31.5 (SD ± 9.8) anti-VEGF injections and a mean follow-up period of 45.3 months (SD ± 10.5) were included. Whereas the RGCL thickness decreased significantly compared to the noninjected fellow eye (P = .01), the decrease of the RNFL was not significant. Visual acuity gain was significantly correlated with RGCL thickness (r = 0.52, P < .05) at follow-up and negatively correlated (r = -0.41, P < .05) with age. Presence of RPE atrophy correlated negatively with the RGCL thickness at follow-up (r = -0.37, P = .03). CONCLUSION During the course of long-term anti-VEGF therapy there is a significant decrease of the RGCL in patients with neovascular AMD compared to the fellow (untreated) eye.
Collapse
|
21
|
Foss AJE, Scott LJ, Rogers CA, Reeves BC, Ghanchi F, Gibson J, Chakravarthy U. Changes in intraocular pressure in study and fellow eyes in the IVAN trial. Br J Ophthalmol 2016; 100:1662-1667. [PMID: 27073205 PMCID: PMC5256412 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2015-307595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2015] [Revised: 01/31/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) in the 'alternative treatments to Inhibit VEGF in Age-related choroidal Neovascularisation (IVAN)' trial (registered as ISRCTN92166560). DESIGN Randomised controlled clinical trial with factorial design. PARTICIPANTS Patients (n=610) with treatment naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either ranibizumab or bevacizumab and to two regimens, namely monthly (continuous) or as needed (discontinuous) treatment. METHODS At monthly visits, IOP was measured preinjection in both eyes, and postinjection in the study eye. OUTCOME MEASURES The effects of 10 prespecified covariates on preinjection IOP, change in IOP (postinjection minus preinjection) and the difference in preinjection IOP between the two eyes were examined. RESULTS For every month in trial, there was a statistically significant rise in both the preinjection IOP and the change in IOP postinjection during the time in the trial (estimate 0.02 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.03, p<0.001 and 0.03 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.04, p=0.002, respectively). There was also a small but significant increase during the time in trial in the difference in IOP between the two eyes (estimate 0.01 mm Hg, 95% CI 0.005 to 0.02, p<0.001). There were no differences between bevacizumab and ranibizumab for any of the three outcomes (p=0.93, p=0.22 and p=0.87, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents induce increases in IOP of small and uncertain clinical significance. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN92166560.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren J Scott
- School of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Trials Evaluation Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Chris A Rogers
- School of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Trials Evaluation Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Barney C Reeves
- School of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Trials Evaluation Unit, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Faruque Ghanchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Jonathan Gibson
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Usha Chakravarthy
- Centre for Experimental Medicine, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|