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Raharja A, Amin K, Muthucumarana D, Sadhwani H, Harris M, Hanumunthadu D. Real-world safety and efficacy of subthreshold micropulse laser for varying severities of diabetic macular oedema. Lasers Med Sci 2024; 39:138. [PMID: 38795177 DOI: 10.1007/s10103-024-04075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Krina Amin
- Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Hosoya H, Ueta T, Hirasawa K, Toyama T, Shiraya T. Subthreshold micropulse laser combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for diabetic macular edema: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024:10.1007/s00417-024-06460-7. [PMID: 38662102 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-024-06460-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effects of subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) in addition to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were systematically searched for studies that compared anti-VEGF with SML and anti-VEGF monotherapy for DME. Outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and the number of anti-VEGF injections. RESULTS Eight studies including 493 eyes were selected. Four studies were randomized controlled, and the other four were retrospective. Meta-analysis showed that there was no significant difference in BCVA (mean difference [MD] -0.04; 95%CI -0.09 to 0.01 logMAR; P = 0.13;). CMT was thinner in the group of anti-VEGF with SML (MD -11.08; 95%CI -21.04 to -1.12 µm; P = 0.03); however, it was due to a single study that weighed higher, and the sensitivity and subcategory analyses did not support the finding. The number of anti-VEGF injections was significantly decreased in the group of anti-VEGF with SML (MD -2.22; 95%CI -3.02 to -1.42; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION Current evidence indicates that adding SML to anti-VEGF therapy could significantly reduce the number of anti-VEGF injections compared to anti-VEGF monotherapy, while achieve similar BCVA and CMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Hosoya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Ueta
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kazunori Hirasawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taku Toyama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Shiraya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Showa General Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Tai F, Nanji K, Garg A, Zeraatkar D, Phillips M, Steel DH, Garg SJ, Kaiser PK, Guymer RH, Wykoff CC, Sivaprasad S, Chaudhary V. Subthreshold Compared with Threshold Macular Photocoagulation for Diabetic Macular Edema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Ophthalmol Retina 2024; 8:223-233. [PMID: 37805099 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2023.09.022] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
TOPIC To compare the efficacy and safety of subthreshold macular laser to conventional focal laser photocoagulation for the treatment of vision loss secondary to diabetic macular edema (DME). CLINICAL RELEVANCE Macular laser remains an important and cost effective treatment option for vision loss secondary to DME. Although anti-VEGF therapy is often first-line, macular laser is of utility in low-resource or remote settings, for patients at risk of loss to follow-up, and for DME not meeting country-specific reimbursement criteria for anti-VEGF therapy. Subthreshold laser is a modality that does not produce clinical or histologic evidence of thermal damage, thereby potentially limiting the common complications of conventional laser. METHODS Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from inception to September 28, 2022. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects modeling. Data were collected at 12 and 24 months for best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness, diabetic retinopathy severity scale, rate of adverse events, rate of enrolled patients not completing treatment, rate of patients receiving retreatment, and quality-of-life measures. The risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed using Cochrane's Risk-of-Bias version 2 and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) frameworks, respectively. Subgroup analysis was performed between subthreshold laser modalities and evaluated with Instrument to assess the Credibility of Effect Modification Analyses tool. RESULTS Fourteen RCTs comprising 514 eyes receiving conventional laser and 574 eyes receiving subthreshold laser were included. Subthreshold laser likely results in no difference to BCVA (moderate GRADE certainty) compared with conventional laser. Conventional laser demonstrated a small, statistically significant improvement in central retinal thickness (low GRADE certainty); however, the magnitude of this improvement is unlikely to be clinically important. There may not be a difference in the rate of adverse events (low GRADE certainty) at 12 months when comparing subthreshold laser to conventional laser for DME. CONCLUSION Randomized controlled trial literature to date suggests subthreshold laser to be as effective as conventional laser in the treatment of DME. Increased follow-up duration is needed to observe any long-term safety benefit from reduced retinal damage. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Tai
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Keean Nanji
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anubhav Garg
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dena Zeraatkar
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Phillips
- Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - David H Steel
- Department of Eye and Visual Sciences, Sunderland Eye Infirmary, Sunderland, United Kingdom; Department of Eye and Visual Sciences, Bioscience Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Sunir J Garg
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mid Atlantic Retina, The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Peter K Kaiser
- Department of Ophthalmology, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Robyn H Guymer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia; Department of Surgery (Ophthalmology), the University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Charles C Wykoff
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Sobha Sivaprasad
- Department of Ophthalmology, NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Varun Chaudhary
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Wijeweera C, Ni J, Petocz P, Preda V, Jabbour J. Efficacy of anti-VEGF monotherapy versus anti-VEGF therapy with subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) in the management of diabetic macular oedema (DMO): a systematic review and meta-analysis. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024:10.1007/s00417-024-06405-0. [PMID: 38421412 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-024-06405-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal injection anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (IVI anti-VEGF) therapy serves as the primary treatment for centre involving diabetic macular oedema (DMO). Conventional laser therapy (CLT) adjunct has proven beneficial; however, it is not widely used due to significant risks of retinal scarring. Subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) therapy has, however, emerged as a comparable alternative to combination therapy, offering a distinct advantage by mitigating the risk of retinal scarring. METHODS A search of six databases was conducted. A meta-analysis of mean differences was performed including subgroup analyses where appropriate. Primary outcome was the number of injections at 12-14 months; secondary outcomes were changes in central macular thickness (CMT) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 6-8 months and 12-14 months. RESULTS A total of ten papers including six randomised clinical trials and four retrospective clinical studies were included in our study, capturing 563 eyes of 478 patients. Overall, the risk of bias was moderate for these studies. Significantly fewer anti-VEGF therapy injections were administered in the combination therapy versus anti-VEGF monotherapy patients at 12-14 months who had poor visual acuity (6/18 Snellen or worse) at baseline, mean difference - 2.25 (95% CI; - 3.35, - 1.15; p < 0.05). Combination therapy was not associated with significantly fewer intravitreal injections in patients with a higher visual acuity (6/15 Snellen or better) at baseline. Our analysis also showed significant improvements to both BCVA and CMT were reached at 6 - 8 month post-baseline at the 95% confidence intervals: - 1.13 (- 2.09, - 0.16) and - 4.04 (- 7.59, - 0.50). These improvements remained statistically significant at 12-14 months: - 0.94 (- 1.67, - 0.20) and - 1.92 (- 3.52, - 0.32) respectively with combination therapy. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate that combination therapy (SML + IVI anti-VEGF) is associated with fewer intravitreal injections. We report a better BCVA and a reduction in CMT at 6 and 12 months from baseline with combination treatment compared to the IVI anti-VEGF monotherapy comparator. SML is a proven non-scarring cost-effective therapy for DMO that should be readily available in the medical retinal therapy as it may reduce the burden of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandana Wijeweera
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Macquarie Park, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jing Ni
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Macquarie Park, Sydney, Australia
| | - Peter Petocz
- Graduate Research Academy, Macquarie University Macquarie Park, Sydney, Australia
| | - Veronica Preda
- Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University Macquarie Park, Sydney, Australia.
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Salvetat ML, Pellegrini F, Spadea L, Salati C, Musa M, Gagliano C, Zeppieri M. The Treatment of Diabetic Retinal Edema with Intravitreal Steroids: How and When. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1327. [PMID: 38592149 PMCID: PMC10932454 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. It is defined as the diabetes-related accumulation of fluid, proteins, and lipids, with retinal thickening, within the macular area. DME affects a significant proportion of individuals with diabetes, with the prevalence increasing with disease duration and severity. It is estimated that approximately 25-30% of diabetic patients will develop DME during their lifetime. Poor glycemic control, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes duration, and genetic predisposition are recognized as risk factors for the development and progression of DME. Although the exact pathophysiology is still not completely understood, it has been demonstrated that chronic hyperglycemia triggers a cascade of biochemical processes, including increased oxidative stress, inflammation, activation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cellular dysfunction, and apoptosis, with breakdown of the blood-retinal barriers and fluid accumulation within the macular area. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of DME are crucial for improving visual outcomes. Although the control of systemic risk factors still remains the most important strategy in DME treatment, intravitreal pharmacotherapy with anti-VEGF molecules or steroids is currently considered the first-line approach in DME patients, whereas macular laser photocoagulation and pars plana vitrectomy may be useful in selected cases. Available intravitreal steroids, including triamcinolone acetonide injections and dexamethasone and fluocinolone acetonide implants, exert their therapeutic effect by reducing inflammation, inhibiting VEGF expression, stabilizing the blood-retinal barrier and thus reducing vascular permeability. They have been demonstrated to be effective in reducing macular edema and improving visual outcomes in DME patients but are associated with a high risk of intraocular pressure elevation and cataract development, so their use requires an accurate patient selection. This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the pathology, epidemiology, risk factors, physiopathology, clinical features, treatment mechanisms of actions, treatment options, prognosis, and ongoing clinical studies related to the treatment of DME, with particular consideration of intravitreal steroids therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Letizia Salvetat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Sanitaria Friuli Occidentale, 33170 Pordenone, Italy; (M.L.S.)
| | - Francesco Pellegrini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Sanitaria Friuli Occidentale, 33170 Pordenone, Italy; (M.L.S.)
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Mutali Musa
- Department of Optometry, University of Benin, Benin City 300238, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Caterina Gagliano
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Enna “Kore”, Piazza dell’Università, 94100 Enna, Italy
- Eye Clinic, Catania University, San Marco Hospital, Viale Carlo Azeglio Ciampi, 95121 Catania, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
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Mei JH, Lin Z. Subthreshold micropulse diode laser treatment in diabetic macular edema: biological impact, therapeutic effects, and safety. Int Ophthalmol 2024; 44:3. [PMID: 38315299 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-02973-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To introduce the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) with subthreshold micropulse diode laser (SMPL), to summarize the biological impact, therapeutic effects, and safety of this treatment, and to discuss the response to DME when SMPL is combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) or steroid. METHODS The literature search was performed on the PubMed database, with a selection of English-language articles published from 2000 to 2023 with the following combinations of search terms: diabetes macular (o) edema, micropulse laser or subthreshold micropulse laser, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor, and steroid. RESULTS SMPL is a popular, invisible retinal laser phototherapy that is inexpensive, safe, and effective in the treatment of DME. It can selectively target the retinal pigment epithelium, reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, promote the absorption of macular edema, and exert a similar and lasting clinical effect to traditional lasers. No significant difference was found in the therapeutic effects of SMPL between different wavelengths. However, HbA1c level and pretreatment central macular thickness (CMT) may affect the therapeutic outcomes of SMPL. CONCLUSION SMPL has a slow onset and produces lasting clinical effects similar to conventional photocoagulation. It has been reported that SMPL combined with the intravitreal anti-VEGF injection can significantly reduce the number of injections without influencing the therapeutic effect, which is essential for clinical applications and research. Although 577 nm SMPL is widely used clinically, there are no standardized protocols for SMPL. Additionally, some important problems regarding the treatment of SMPL require further discussion and exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hao Mei
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 207, Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, No. 207, Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhong Lin
- The Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, No. 207, Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, No. 207, Xueyuan West Road, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
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Bhatnagar A, Ting DSW, Weng CY. Treatment Options for Diabetic Macular Edema. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2024; 64:57-69. [PMID: 38146881 DOI: 10.1097/iio.0000000000000518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
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Myslík M, Kateřina. Central Serous Chorioretinopathy. A Review. CESKA A SLOVENSKA OFTALMOLOGIE : CASOPIS CESKE OFTALMOLOGICKE SPOLECNOSTI A SLOVENSKE OFTALMOLOGICKE SPOLECNOSTI 2024; 80:59-75. [PMID: 38531681 DOI: 10.31348/2023/27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a disease characterized by serous detachment of the neuroretina, especially in the posterior pole of the eye. It is often accompanied by serous detachment of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and associated with the leakage of fluid into the subretinal space through the defective RPE. CSC most often affects men of working age. The exact pathophysiology of the disease is not completely known. Based on indocyanine green angiography (ICG), which revealed increased permeability of choroidal vessels, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) showing increased choroidal thickness, choroidal vasculopathy is assumed to be the primary cause of CSC. In most cases, CSC has a good prognosis with spontaneous resorption of the subretinal fluid (SRF) and improvement of visual functions. However, in a small percentage of patients the disease progresses to a chronic or recurrent course, and can lead to irreversible functional and anatomical changes of the retina with a final clinical picture of diffuse retinal pigment epitheliopathy (DRPE). The optimal treatment approach for patients with CSC remains controversial. In recent decades, myriad therapeutic approaches have been used in the treatment of chronic forms of CSC (cCSC); these included for example laser photocoagulation, pharmaceutical treatment, standard photodynamic therapy (PDT) or anti-VEGF. In recent years a less destructive method, specifically PDT in reduced dose regimens, either with a reduced dose of verteporfin or the laser beam energy used, has been preferred in the treatment of cCSC. Comparable efficacy and safety has been demonstrated using reduced-dose or reduced-fluence PDT regimens in patients with cCSC, with an improvement in best-corrected visual acuity and reduction of SRF.
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Mistry H, Maredza M, Campbell C, Lois N. Subthreshold micropulse laser versus standard laser for the treatment of central-involving diabetic macular oedema with central retinal thickness of <400µ: a cost-effectiveness analysis from the DIAMONDS trial. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e067684. [PMID: 37852765 PMCID: PMC10603454 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-067684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate the economic costs, health-related quality-of-life outcomes and cost-effectiveness of subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) versus standard laser (SL) for the treatment of diabetic macular oedema (DMO) with central retinal thickness (CRT) of <400µ. DESIGN An economic evaluation was conducted within a pragmatic, multicentre, randomised clinical trial, DIAbetic Macular Oedema aNd Diode Subthreshold. SETTING 18 UK Hospital Eye Services. PARTICIPANTS Adults with diabetes and centre involving DMO with CRT<400µ. INTERVENTIONS Participants (n=266) were randomised 1:1 to receive SML or SL. METHODS The base-case used an intention-to-treat approach conducted from a UK National Health Service (NHS) and personal social services (PSS) perspective. Costs (2019-2020 prices) were collected prospectively over the 2-year follow-up period. A bivariate regression of costs and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), with multiple imputation of missing data, was conducted to estimate the incremental cost per QALY gained and the incremental net monetary benefit of SML in comparison to SL. Sensitivity analyses explored uncertainty and heterogeneity in cost-effectiveness estimates. RESULTS One participant in the SL arm withdrew consent for data to be used; data from the remaining 265 participants were included in analyses. Mean (SE) NHS and PSS costs over 24 months were £735.09 (£111.85) in the SML arm vs £1099.70 (£195.40) in the SL arm (p=0.107). Mean (SE) QALY estimates were 1.493 (0.024) vs 1.485 (0.020), respectively (p=0.780), giving an insignificant difference of 0.008 QALYs. The probability SML is cost-effective at a threshold of £20 000 per QALY was 76%. CONCLUSIONS There were no statistically significant differences in EQ-5D-5L scores or costs between SML and SL. Given these findings and the fact that SML does not burn the retina, unlike SL and has equivalent efficacy to SL, it may be preferred for the treatment of people with DMO with CRT<400µ. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS ISRCTN17742985; NCT03690050.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hema Mistry
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
- University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, UK
| | - Mandy Maredza
- Warwick Clinical Trials Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | | | - Noemi Lois
- Department of Ophthalmology, Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Bodea F, Bungau SG, Bogdan MA, Vesa CM, Radu A, Tarce AG, Purza AL, Tit DM, Bustea C, Radu AF. Micropulse Laser Therapy as an Integral Part of Eye Disease Management. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1388. [PMID: 37629677 PMCID: PMC10456532 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Ocular diseases can significantly impact vision and quality of life through pathophysiological alterations to the structure of the eye. The management of these conditions often involves a combination of pharmaceutical interventions, surgical procedures, and laser therapy. Laser technology has revolutionized many medical fields, including ophthalmology, offering precise and targeted treatment options that solve some of the unmet needs of other therapeutic strategies. Conventional laser techniques, while effective, can generate excessive thermal energy, leading to collateral tissue damage and potential side effects. Compared to conventional laser techniques, micropulse laser therapy delivers laser energy in a pulsed manner, minimizing collateral damage while effectively treating target tissues. The present paper highlights the advantages of micropulse laser therapy over conventional laser treatments, presents the implications of applying these strategies to some of the most prevalent ocular diseases, and highlights several types and mechanisms of micropulse lasers. Although micropulse laser therapy shows great potential in the management of ocular diseases, further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols, evaluate long-term efficacy, and explore its role in combination therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flaviu Bodea
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (F.B.); (C.M.V.); (D.M.T.); (A.-F.R.)
| | - Simona Gabriela Bungau
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (F.B.); (C.M.V.); (D.M.T.); (A.-F.R.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Mihaela Alexandra Bogdan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Cosmin Mihai Vesa
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (F.B.); (C.M.V.); (D.M.T.); (A.-F.R.)
- Department of Preclinical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
| | - Ada Radu
- Ducfarm Pharmacy, 410514 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Alexandra Georgiana Tarce
- Medicine Program of Study, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Anamaria Lavinia Purza
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Delia Mirela Tit
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (F.B.); (C.M.V.); (D.M.T.); (A.-F.R.)
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Cristian Bustea
- Department of Surgery, Oradea County Emergency Clinical Hospital, 410169 Oradea, Romania;
| | - Andrei-Flavius Radu
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania; (F.B.); (C.M.V.); (D.M.T.); (A.-F.R.)
- Department of Preclinical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
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Virgili G, Curran K, Lucenteforte E, Peto T, Parravano M. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor for diabetic macular oedema: a network meta-analysis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 2023:CD007419. [PMID: 38275741 PMCID: PMC10294542 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd007419.pub7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Background Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) is a common complication of diabetic retinopathy. Antiangiogenic therapy with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) can reduce oedema, improve vision, and prevent further visual loss. These drugs have replaced laser photocoagulation as the standard of care for people with DMO. In the previous update of this review, we found moderate-quality evidence that, at 12 months, aflibercept was slightly more effective than ranibizumab and bevacizumab for improving vision in people with DMO, although the difference may have been clinically insignificant (less than 0.1 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), or five Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters, or one ETDRS line). Objectives The objective of this updated review was to compare the effectiveness and safety of the different anti-VEGF drugs in RCTs at longer followup (24 months). Search methods We searched various electronic databases on 8 July 2022. Selection criteria We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared any anti-angiogenic drug with an anti-VEGF mechanism of action versus another anti-VEGF drug, another treatment, sham, or no treatment in people with DMO. Data collection and analysis We used standard Cochrane methods for pairwise meta-analysis and we augmented this evidence using network meta-analysis (NMA) methods. We used the Stata 'network' meta-analysis package for all analyses. We used the CINeMA (Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis) web application to grade the certainty of the evidence. Main results We included 23 studies (13 with industry funding) that enrolled 3513 people with DMO (median central retinal thickness (CRT) 460 microns, interquartile range (IQR) 424 to 482) and moderate vision loss (median best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) 0.48 logMAR, IQR 0.42 to 0.55. One study that investigated ranibizumab versus sham and one study that mainly enrolled people with subclinical DMO and normal BCVA were not suitable for inclusion in the efficacy NMA. Consistent with the previous update of this review, we used ranibizumab as the reference drug for efficacy, and control (including laser, observation, and sham) as the reference for systemic safety. Eight trials provided data on the primary outcome (change in BCVA at 24 months, in logMAR: lower is better). We found no evidence of a difference between the following interventions and ranibizumab alone: aflibercept (mean difference (MD) -0.05 logMAR, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.12 to 0.02; moderate certainty); bevacizumab (MD -0.01 logMAR, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.10; low certainty), brolucizumab (MD 0.00 logMAR, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.07; low certainty), ranibizumab plus deferred laser (MD 0.00 logMAR, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.10; low certainty), and ranibizumab plus prompt laser (MD 0.03 logMAR, 95% CI -0.04 to 0.09; very low certainty). We also analysed BCVA change at 12 months, finding moderate-certainty evidence of increased efficacy with brolucizumab (MD -0.07 logMAR, 95%CI -0.10 to -0.03 logMAR), faricimab (MD -0.08 logMAR, 95% CI -0.12 to -0.05), and aflibercept (MD -0.07 logMAR, 95 % CI -0.10 to -0.04) compared to ranibizumab alone, but the difference could be clinically insignificant. Compared to ranibizumab alone, NMA of six trials showed no evidence of a difference with aflibercept (moderate certainty), bevacizumab (low certainty), or ranibizumab with prompt (very low certainty) or deferred laser (low certainty) regarding improvement by three or more ETDRS lines at 24 months. There was moderate-certainty evidence of greater CRT reduction at 24 months with brolucizumab (MD -23 microns, 95% CI -65 to -1 9) and aflibercept (MD -26 microns, 95% CI -53 to 0.9) compared to ranibizumab. There was moderate-certainty evidence of lesser CRT reduction with bevacizumab (MD 28 microns, 95% CI 0 to 56), ranibizumab plus deferred laser (MD 63 microns, 95% CI 18 to 109), and ranibizumab plus prompt laser (MD 72 microns, 95% CI 25 to 119) compared with ranibizumab alone. Regarding all-cause mortality at the longest available follow-up (20 trials), we found no evidence of increased risk of death for any drug compared to control, although effects were in the direction of an increase, and clinically relevant increases could not be ruled out. The certainty of this evidence was low for bevacizumab (risk ratio (RR) 2.10, 95% CI 0.75 to 5.88), brolucizumab (RR 2.92, 95% CI 0.68 to 12.58), faricimab (RR 1.91, 95% CI 0.45 to 8.00), ranibizumab (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.68 to 2.34), and very low for conbercept (RR 0.33, 95% CI 0.01 to 8.81) and aflibercept (RR 1.48, 95% CI 0.79 to 2.77). Estimates for Antiplatelet Trialists Collaboration arterial thromboembolic events at 24 months did not suggest an increase with any drug compared to control, but the NMA was overall incoherent and the evidence was of low or very low certainty. Ocular adverse events were rare and poorly reported and could not be assessed in NMAs. Authors' conclusions There is limited evidence of the comparative efficacy and safety of anti-VEGF drugs beyond one year of follow-up. We found no clinically important differences in visual outcomes at 24 months in people with DMO, although there were differences in CRT change. We found no evidence that any drug increases all-cause mortality compared to control, but estimates were very imprecise. Evidence from RCTs may not apply to real-world practice, where people in need of antiangiogenic treatment are often under-treated, and the individuals exposed to these drugs may be less healthy than trial participants.
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Key Words
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors [adverse effects, *therapeutic use]
- Aptamers, Nucleotide [adverse effects, therapeutic use]
- Bevacizumab [adverse effects, therapeutic use]
- Diabetic Retinopathy [*complications]
- Laser Coagulation [methods]
- Macular Edema [*drug therapy, etiology, surgery]
- Network Meta-Analysis
- Quality of Life
- Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
- Ranibizumab [adverse effects, therapeutic use]
- Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor [therapeutic use]
- Recombinant Fusion Proteins [adverse effects, therapeutic use]
- Triamcinolone [adverse effects, therapeutic use]
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A [*antagonists & inhibitors]
- Visual Acuity [*drug effects, physiology]
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianni Virgili
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Ersilia Lucenteforte
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tunde Peto
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Mariacristina Parravano
- Ophthalmology, Fondazione G.B. Bietti per lo studio e la ricerca in Oftalmolologia-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Tatsumi T. Current Treatments for Diabetic Macular Edema. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119591. [PMID: 37298544 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy is a major retinal disorder and a leading cause of blindness. Diabetic macular edema (DME) is an ocular complication in patients with diabetes, and it can impair vision significantly. DME is a disorder of the neurovascular system, and it causes obstructions of the retinal capillaries, damage of the blood vessels, and hyperpermeability due to the expression and action of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These changes result in hemorrhages and leakages of the serous components of blood that result in failures of the neurovascular units (NVUs). Persistent edema of the retina around the macula causes damage to the neural cells that constitute the NVUs resulting in diabetic neuropathy of the retina and a reduction in vision quality. The macular edema and NVU disorders can be monitored by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Neuronal cell death and axonal degeneration are irreversible, and their development can result in permanent visual loss. Treating the edema before these changes are detected in the OCT images is necessary for neuroprotection and maintenance of good vision. This review describes the effective treatments for the macular edema that are therefore neuroprotective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoaki Tatsumi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, Inohana 1-8-1, Chuo-ku, Chiba 260-8670, Japan
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13
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Li G, Ho M, Li S, Chen L, Iu L, Cheung CY, Brelen M, Young AL. COMPARING FUNCTIONAL AND VASCULAR LAYER OUTCOMES OF LASER PHOTOCOAGULATION VERSUS SUBTHRESHOLD MICROPULSE LASER FOR DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA: An OCT-Angiography Study. Retina 2023; 43:823-831. [PMID: 36728901 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the efficacy of conventional laser and subthreshold micropulse laser (SML) in treating diabetic macular edema in terms of functional outcomes and changes in quantitative metrics for the retinal capillary and choriocapillary vascular layers. METHODS Fifty-two eyes from 52 patients with treatment-naive, clinically significant macular edema were randomly assigned to the conventional laser group or SML group in a 1:1 ratio. Best-corrected visual acuity, central macular thickness (CMT), and optical coherence tomography angiography scans were measured at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months after treatment. RESULTS The SML group showed rapid visual recovery, improving from baseline of 0.320 ± 0.31 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/42 Snellen) to 0.270 ± 0.22 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/37 Snellen) at 1 month ( P = 0.038) and had significant improvements in CMT at 6-month post-treatment (353.88-301.00 µ m, P = 0.005). Statistically significant changes were detected across all optical coherence tomography angiography metrics, including vessel density, vessel length density, vessel diameter index, and fractal dimension, at 6 months for both groups in the deep capillary plexus and choriocapillary plexus. CONCLUSION Subthreshold micropulse laser resulted in early visual recovery and sustained macular thickness improvement in the treatment of diabetic macular edema. Microvascular perfusion parameters, including vessel density, vessel length density, and fractal dimension, improved in the deep capillary plexus and choriocapillary plexus for both treatment groups at 6 months post-treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Mary Ho
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sophia Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lijia Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lawrence Iu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Y Cheung
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Marten Brelen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Alvin L Young
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; and
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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