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Munzar R, Roh S, Ramsey DJ. Factors associated with loss to follow-up in patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration: A telehealth recall initiative. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2024; 44:626-633. [PMID: 38425149 DOI: 10.1111/opo.13298] [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: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) frequently experience loss to follow-up (LTFU), heightening the risk of vision loss from treatment delays. This study aimed to identify factors contributing to LTFU in patients with advanced AMD and assess the effectiveness of telephone-based outreach in reconnecting them with eye care. METHODS A custom reporting tool identified patients with advanced AMD who had not returned for eye care between 31 October 2021 and 1 November 2022. Potentially LTFU patients were enrolled in a telephone outreach programme conducted by a telehealth extender to encourage their return for care. Linear regression analysis identified factors associated with being LTFU and likelihood of accepting care post-outreach. RESULTS Out of 1269 patients with advanced AMD, 105 (8.3%) did not return for recommended eye care. Patients LTFU were generally older (89.2 ± 8.9 years vs. 87.2 ± 8.5 years, p = 0.02) and lived farther from the clinic (25 ± 43 miles vs. 17 ± 30 miles, p = 0.009). They also had a higher rate of advanced dry AMD (26.7% vs. 18.5%, p = 0.04) and experienced worse vision in both their better-seeing (0.683 logMAR vs. 0.566 logMAR, p = 0.03) and worse-seeing (1.388 logMAR vs. 1.235 logMAR, p = 0.04) eyes. Outreach by a telehealth extender reached 62 patients (59%), 43 through family members or healthcare proxies. Half of the cases where a proxy was contacted revealed that the patient in question had died. Among those contacted directly, one third expressed willingness to resume eye care (20 patients), with 11 scheduling appointments (55%). Despite only two patients returning for in-person eye care through the intervention, the LTFU rate halved to 4.4% by accounting for those patients who no longer needed eye care at the practice. CONCLUSIONS There is a substantial risk that older patients with advanced AMD will become LTFU. Targeted telephone outreach can provide a pathway for vulnerable patients to return to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Munzar
- Lahey Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, UMass Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Shiyoung Roh
- Lahey Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, UMass Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David J Ramsey
- Lahey Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, UMass Chan Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Lanzetta P, Korobelnik JF, Heier JS, Leal S, Holz FG, Clark WL, Eichenbaum D, Iida T, Xiaodong S, Berliner AJ, Schulze A, Schmelter T, Schmidt-Ott U, Zhang X, Vitti R, Chu KW, Reed K, Rao R, Bhore R, Cheng Y, Sun W, Hirshberg B, Yancopoulos GD, Wong TY. Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (PULSAR): 48-week results from a randomised, double-masked, non-inferiority, phase 3 trial. Lancet 2024; 403:1141-1152. [PMID: 38461841 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00063-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg could improve treatment outcomes and provide sustained disease control in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), with extended dosing compared with aflibercept 2 mg. METHODS PULSAR is a phase 3, randomised, three-group, double-masked, non-inferiority, 96-week trial conducted across 223 sites worldwide. Adults with nAMD were randomised 1:1:1 to aflibercept 8 mg every 12 weeks (8q12), aflibercept 8 mg every 16 weeks (8q16), or aflibercept 2 mg every 8 weeks (2q8), following three initial monthly doses in all groups. From week 16, patients in the aflibercept 8 mg groups had their dosing interval shortened if pre-specified dose regimen modification criteria denoting disease activity were met. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at week 48. All patients with at least one dose of study treatment were included in the efficacy and safety analyses. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04423718) and is ongoing. FINDINGS Of 1011 patients randomised to aflibercept 8q12 (n=336), 8q16 (n=338), or 2q8 (n=337) between Aug 11, 2020, and July 30, 2021, 1009 patients received study treatment (aflibercept 8q12 n=335; aflibercept 8q16 n=338; and aflibercept 2q8 n=336). Aflibercept 8q12 and 8q16 showed non-inferior BCVA gains versus aflibercept 2q8 (mean BCVA change from baseline +6·7 [SD 12·6] and +6·2 [11·7] vs +7·6 [12·2] letters). The least squares mean differences between aflibercept 8q12 versus 2q8 and 8q16 versus 2q8, respectively, were -0·97 (95% CI -2·87 to 0·92) and -1·14 (-2·97 to 0·69) letters (non-inferiority margin at 4 letters). The incidence of ocular adverse events in the study eye was similar across groups (aflibercept 8q12 n=129 [39%]; aflibercept 8q16 n=127 [38%]; and aflibercept 2q8 n=130 [39%]). INTERPRETATION Aflibercept 8 mg showed efficacy and safety with extended dosing intervals, which has the potential to improve the management of patients with nAMD. FUNDING Bayer AG and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Lanzetta
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare-IEMO, Udine, Italy
| | - Jean-François Korobelnik
- Service d'Ophtalmologie, CHU Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, INSERM, UMR1219, F-33000, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Tomohiro Iida
- Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xin Zhang
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Karen W Chu
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Rohini Rao
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Rafia Bhore
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Wei Sun
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Tien Y Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Brown DM, Boyer DS, Do DV, Wykoff CC, Sakamoto T, Win P, Joshi S, Salehi-Had H, Seres A, Berliner AJ, Leal S, Vitti R, Chu KW, Reed K, Rao R, Cheng Y, Sun W, Voronca D, Bhore R, Schmidt-Ott U, Schmelter T, Schulze A, Zhang X, Hirshberg B, Yancopoulos GD, Sivaprasad S. Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg in diabetic macular oedema (PHOTON): 48-week results from a randomised, double-masked, non-inferiority, phase 2/3 trial. Lancet 2024; 403:1153-1163. [PMID: 38461843 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)02577-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high-dose formulation of intravitreal aflibercept (8 mg) could improve treatment outcomes in diabetic macular oedema (DMO) by requiring fewer injections than the standard comparator, aflibercept 2 mg. We report efficacy and safety results of aflibercept 8 mg versus 2 mg in patients with DMO. METHODS PHOTON was a randomised, double-masked, non-inferiority, phase 2/3 trial performed at 138 hospitals and specialty retina clinics in seven countries. Eligible patients were adults aged 18 years or older with type 1 or 2 diabetes and centre-involved DMO. Patients were randomly assigned (1:2:1) to intravitreal aflibercept 2 mg every 8 weeks (2q8), aflibercept 8 mg every 12 weeks (8q12), or aflibercept 8 mg every 16 weeks (8q16), following initial monthly dosing. From week 16, dosing intervals for the aflibercept 8 mg groups were shortened if patients met prespecified dose regimen modification criteria denoting disease activity. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at week 48 (non-inferiority margin of 4 letters). Efficacy and safety analyses included all randomly assigned patients who received at least one dose of study treatment. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04429503). FINDINGS Between June 29, 2020, and June 28, 2021, 970 patients were screened for eligibility. After exclusions, 660 patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive aflibercept 8q12 (n=329), 8q16 (n=164), or 2q8 (n=167); two patients were randomly assigned in error and did not receive treatment. 658 (99·7%) patients were treated and included in the full analysis set and safety analysis set (8q12 n=328, 8q16 n=163, and 2q8 n=167). Mean patient age was 62·3 years (SD 10·4). 401 (61%) patients were male. 471 (72%) patients were White. Aflibercept 8q12 and 8q16 demonstrated non-inferior BCVA gains to aflibercept 2q8 (BCVA mean change from baseline 8·8 letters [SD 9·0] in the 8q12 group, 7·9 letters [8·4] in the 8q16 group, and 9·2 letters [9·0] in the 2q8 group). The difference in least squares means was -0·57 letters (95% CI -2·26 to 1·13, p value for non-inferiority <0·0001) between 8q12 and 2q8 and -1·44 letters (-3·27 to 0·39, p value for non-inferiority 0·0031) between aflibercept 8q16 and 2q8. Proportions of patients with ocular adverse events in the study eye were similar across groups (8q12 n=104 [32%], 8q16 n=48 [29%], and 2q8 n=46 [28%]). INTERPRETATION Aflibercept 8 mg demonstrated efficacy and safety with extended dosing intervals and could decrease treatment burden in patients with DMO. FUNDING Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Bayer.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Brown
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Retina Consultants of America, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Diana V Do
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Charles C Wykoff
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Retina Consultants of America, Houston, TX, USA; Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Taiji Sakamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | | | - Sunir Joshi
- Pinnacle Research Institute, Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA
| | - Hani Salehi-Had
- Retina Associates of Southern California, Huntington Beach, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Karen W Chu
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Rohini Rao
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Wei Sun
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Rafia Bhore
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Xin Zhang
- Bayer Consumer Care, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | | | - Sobha Sivaprasad
- National Institute for Health Research, Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK.
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Chronopoulos A, Huynh E, Ashurov A, Schutz JS, Jonas JB, Hattenbach LO. Brolucizumab for recalcitrant macular neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration with pigment epithelial detachment. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:487-496. [PMID: 37461836 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231187663] [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] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze anatomic and functional response to intravitreal brolucizumab in age-related macular degeneration recalcitrant to previous intravitreal anti-VEGF therapies. METHODS In this monocentric, one arm, retrospective study, eyes affected by neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) resistant to other intravitreally injected anti-vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors were switched to intravitreal brolucizumab. All patients underwent ophthalmological examinations at baseline and in regular follow-up intervals. Best registered visual acuity (BRVA), Goldmann tonometry, intraocular pressure (IOP), central retinal thickness (CRT) and pigment epithelial detachment (PED) characteristics were analyzed at initiation of anti-VEGF treatment, at treatment switch, and at the end of brolucizumab loading phase. RESULTS The study included 20 eyes of 18 consecutively treated patients (age: 77 ± 6 years). All eyes had macular neovascularization with PED. Previous treatments included intravitreal aflibercept, bevacizumab, and ranibizumab and had not resulted in a significant improvement in BRVA (0.5 ± 0.5 logMAR vs 0.5 ± 0.6 logMAR) or mean CRT (320 ± 60 µm vs 313 ± 83 µm) up to treatment switch to brolucizumab. At the end of the brolucizumab loading phase, there was significant improvement for both BRVA (0.3 ± 0.2 logMAR, P < 0.05) and CRT (264 ± 55 µm, P < 0.05). Under previous anti-VEGF therapy, there was a significant increase/deterioration in both PED area (2.68 mm2 to 5.18 mm2, P < 0.05) and PED volume (0.39 mm3 to 1.07 mm3, P < 0.05); however, both parameters improved after switching to brolucizumab (3.81 mm2 and 0.37 mm3, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our results suggest a favourable anatomical and visual response after treatment switch to brolucizumab in patients with nAMD refractory to previous anti-VEGF agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Argyrios Chronopoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen City Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Elisa Huynh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen City Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Agharza Ashurov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen City Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - James S Schutz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen City Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
| | - Jost B Jonas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Lars-Olof Hattenbach
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen City Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
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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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Kusenda P, Caprnda M, Gabrielova Z, Kukova N, Pavlovic S, Stefanickova J. Understanding Loss to Follow-Up in AMD Patients Receiving VEGF Inhibitor Therapy: Associated Factors and Underlying Reasons. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:400. [PMID: 38396439 PMCID: PMC10887977 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14040400] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), loss to follow-up (LTFU) leads to unplanned interruptions in therapy and the risk of visual loss. METHODS This retrospective and prospective case-control cohort study compared AMD patients with (LTFU YES) and without (LTFU NO) LTFU during anti-VEGF treatment over 12 years. LTFU was defined as missing any treatment or monitoring visits, or not scheduling follow-ups for six months. RESULTS Significant differences between LTFU NO (n = 298) and LTFU YES (n = 174) groups were age, treatment phase, baseline and final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), type of anti-VEGF drug, treatment switch, commuting distance, and escort during commuting. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the need for an escort during the commuting and treatment phase as the only significant difference. The four most common reasons for LTFU were general health worsening (21.8%), patient-missed appointments (16.7%), COVID-19-related issues (14.9%), and treatment dissatisfaction (8.6%). CONCLUSIONS The factors associated with increased LTFU rates were older age, inactive treatment phase, lower baseline and final BCVA, bevacizumab treatment, monotherapy, longer travelling distance, and commuting with an escort. According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, only the escort during the commuting and treatment phases was significant. These findings could direct research to explore social support in treatment adherence and highlight the importance of treatment phases in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavol Kusenda
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital—St. Michael’s Hospital, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (Z.G.)
| | - Martin Caprnda
- First Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, University Hospital Bratislava, 811 07 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Zuzana Gabrielova
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital—St. Michael’s Hospital, 811 08 Bratislava, Slovakia; (P.K.); (Z.G.)
| | | | - Samuel Pavlovic
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty Hospital Nitra, 950 01 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Jana Stefanickova
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, 821 01 Bratislava, Slovakia
- Oftalmocentrum Betliarska Euromedix, 851 07 Bratislava, Slovakia
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VanderBeek BL, Yu Y, Oden N, VanVeldhuisen P, Blodi B, Ip M, Scott IU. Visit Adherence and Visual Acuity in Study of COmparative Treatments for REtinal Vein Occlusion 2 (SCORE2). Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024; 31:78-83. [PMID: 36883723 PMCID: PMC10485168 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2023.2187070] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We quantify the association between visit adherence and visual acuity (VA) in retinal vein occlusions (CRVO). METHODS The SCORE2 protocol included a visit every 4 weeks (every 28-35 days) during the first year. Visit adherence was measured as follows: number of missed visits, average and longest (avg and max days) visit interval, and average and longest (avg and max missed days) and unintended visit interval. Avg and max missed days were categorized as on time (0 days), late (>0-60 days), and very late (>60 days). The primary outcome was a change in the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity letter score (VALS) between baseline study visit and last attended visit during Year 1, using multivariate linear regression models controlling for numerous demographic and clinical factors. RESULTS After adjustment, for each visit missed, patients lost 3.0 letters (95% CI: -6.2, 0.2) of vision (p = .07). On average, the 48 patients who missed at least 1 visit lost 9.4 letters (95% CI: -14.4, -4.3, p < .001) of vision after adjustment. Average days and maximal intervals between visits were not associated with changes in VALS (p > .22) for both comparisons. However, when a visit was missed, the average missed days between missed visits and the max missed interval were both associated with loss of VALS (both variables: 0 days missed as reference, late [1-60 days] -10.8 letters [95% CI: -16.9, -4.7], very late [>60 days] -7.3 letters [95% CI: -14.5, -0.2]; p = .003 for both). CONCLUSIONS Visit adherence is associated with VALS outcomes in CRVO patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian L. VanderBeek
- Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Center for Pharmacoepidemiology Research and Training, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Leonard Davis Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yinxi Yu
- Center for Preventative Ophthalmology and Biostatistics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Neal Oden
- The Emmes Company, LLC, Rockville, Maryland
| | | | - Barbara Blodi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison
| | - Michael Ip
- Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Ingrid U. Scott
- Department of Ophthalmology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
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Archambault SD, Nichols MM, McCullum JC, Zhang Y, Steinberger EE, Ramsey DJ. Patient adherence to therapy after switch to aflibercept from bevacizumab or ranibizumab for treatment-refractory neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:S101-S105. [PMID: 38131550 PMCID: PMC10833157 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1795_23] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Clinical trials have demonstrated that switching patients from intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) or ranibizumab (IVR) to aflibercept (IVA) for treatment-refractory neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) can decrease the injection frequency. This study evaluated whether there was a difference in the rate of injections or nonadherent events after switching therapies. METHODS The study comprised a retrospective, cross-sectional analysis of patients treated for nAMD from 2010 to 2018 who received ≥3 intravitreal injections of IVB/IVR prior to switching to IVA because of treatment-refractory nAMD. The treatment index, outcomes, and adherence to treatment were compared between both treatment regimens. RESULTS Sixty-two patients (67 eyes) met inclusion criteria. There was no change in the treatment index (0.65 versus 0.66, P = 0.650) or the number of nonadherent events (33 versus 36, P = 0.760) after the switch from IVB/IVR to IVA. Central macular thickness (CMT) increased 7.7%±13.8% in eyes that had a nonadherent event (283±69 µm to 304±75 µm after resuming care, P = 0.039). There was no short-term impact on visual acuity (VA) for this subset of eyes (0.387±0.202 LogMAR versus 0.365±0.156 LogMAR, P = 0.636). Patients who had nonadherent events ended the study with similar VA compared with patients who had no treatment lapses (0.370±0.616 LogMAR versus 0.337±0.638 LogMAR, P = 0.843). CONCLUSION Switching from IVB/ IVR to IVA for treatment-refractory nAMD in a real-world setting does not reduce the treatment index or increase adherence to treatment. Although there were short-term anatomical effects resulting from missed treatments, VA remained stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon D Archambault
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Megan M Nichols
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - James C McCullum
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yubo Zhang
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Elise E Steinberger
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David J Ramsey
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, 1 Essex Center Drive, Peabody, MA, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
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Yayla U, Sevik MO, Karabaş VL, Şahin Ö, Özkaya A, Yenerel NM, Açıkalın Öncel B, Kaplan FB, Önder Tokuç E, Kanar HS, Kutlutürk Karagöz I, Başaran Emengen E, Demirciler Sönmez A, Aykut A, Limon U, Bozkurt E, Özsoy Saygın I, Aydoğan Gezginaslan T, Aydın Öncü Ö, Türkseven Kumral E, Erçalık NY, Çelik E. Real-World Outcomes of Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment for Diabetic Macular Edema in Türkiye: MARMASIA Study Group Report No. 1. Turk J Ophthalmol 2023; 53:356-368. [PMID: 38126607 PMCID: PMC10750085 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2023.56249] [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: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to report the demographic and clinical characteristics of diabetic macular edema (DME) patients treated with intravitreal injection (IVI) of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) and provide an overview of outcomes during routine clinical practice in Türkiye. Materials and Methods This retrospective, real-world study included 1,372 eyes (854 patients) treated with a pro re nata protocol by 21 ophthalmologists from 8 tertiary clinics on the Asian side of the Marmara region of Türkiye (MARMASIA Study Group). Five cohort groups were established by collecting the patients' baseline and 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36-month follow-up data, where each subsequent cohort may include the previous. Changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA, approximate ETDRS letters) and central macular thickness (CMT, μm), number of visits and IVI, and rates of anti-VEGF switch and intravitreal dexamethasone implant (IDI) combination were evaluated. Results The 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36-month cohorts included 1372 (854), 1352 (838), 1185 (722), 972 (581), and 623 (361) eyes (patients), respectively. The mean baseline BCVA and CMT were 51.4±21.4 letters and 482.6±180.3 μm. The mean changes from baseline in BCVA were +7.6, +9.1, +8.0, +8.6, and +8.4 letters, and in CMT were -115.4, -140.0, -147.9, -167.3, and -215.4 μm at the 3, 6, 12, 24, and 36-month visits (p<0.001 for all). The median cumulative number of anti-VEGF IVI was 3.0, 3.0, 5.0, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively. The overall anti-VEGF switch and IDI combination rates were 18.5% (253/1372 eyes) and 35.0% (480/1372 eyes), respectively. Conclusion This largest real-life study of DME from Türkiye demonstrated BCVA gains inferior to randomized controlled trials, mainly due to the lower number of IVI. However, with the lower baseline BCVA and higher IDI combination rates in our cohorts, these gains were relatively superior to other real-life study counterparts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uğur Yayla
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Derince Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, Kocaeli, Türkiye
| | - Mehmet Orkun Sevik
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Veysel Levent Karabaş
- Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kocaeli, Türkiye
| | - Özlem Şahin
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Abdullah Özkaya
- Memorial Şişli Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nursal Melda Yenerel
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Banu Açıkalın Öncel
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Fatih Bilgehan Kaplan
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ecem Önder Tokuç
- Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kocaeli, Türkiye
| | - Hatice Selen Kanar
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Işıl Kutlutürk Karagöz
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ece Başaran Emengen
- Kocaeli University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Kocaeli, Türkiye
| | - Ayşe Demirciler Sönmez
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Aslan Aykut
- Marmara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Utku Limon
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Ümraniye Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Erdinç Bozkurt
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Ümraniye Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Işılay Özsoy Saygın
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Ümraniye Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Tuğba Aydoğan Gezginaslan
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Ümraniye Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Özlem Aydın Öncü
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Esra Türkseven Kumral
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Nimet Yeşim Erçalık
- University of Health Sciences Türkiye, Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Ophthalmology, İstanbul, Türkiye
| | - Erkan Çelik
- Sakarya University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Sakarya, Türkiye
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Karaca O, Agostini H, Bialas E, Hahn U, Neubauer AS, Rüggeberg JA, Subert J, Ziemssen F. Surgical Care in Specialist Ophthalmology Departments: Structure and Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2023; 240:1383-1393. [PMID: 35193152 PMCID: PMC10718946 DOI: 10.1055/a-1778-4529] [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: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Specialist ophthalmology departments contribute to the surgical care of German patients. Outpatient and inpatient surgeries were restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic and led to a sharp decline in the number of cases in ophthalmological care. The aim of this analysis was to improve the understanding of the logistic structures of medical facilities as well as the effects of the pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHOD Based on reported process data, a sample of the specialist ophthalmological departments were examined based on operation and procedure codes (OPS) and data submitted between 01.01.2017 and 31.05.2021 according to the benchmarking programmes of the Professional Association of German Anaesthetists (BDA), the Professional Association of German Surgeons (BDC), and the Association for Operating Theatre Management (VOPM). RESULTS Eighteen ophthalmology departments from Germany were analysed. After the decline in the number of cases (by temporarily up to 48%) during the first wave of the pandemic, the case numbers of all interventions assessed as nonurgent continued to be reduced. While intravitreal injections hardly decreased during the first wave (- 16%), significant drops in the coverage of cataract surgery (- 79%), vitrectomies (- 35%), glaucoma surgery (- 59%), strabismus surgery (- 95%), and eyelid surgery (- 52%) were found. One exception was intravitreal injection, which stabilised at a lower level early on during the pandemic. Overall, the number of cases during the later phases of the pandemic were significantly reduced below the level of previous years, despite the maintenance of emergency care. The underuse was variable for different interventions. CONCLUSION In addition to self-reported figures, the analysed process data demonstrates the effect that various factors had on elective as well as urgent operations within hospital care during the pandemic. Despite partial stabilisation of some services, a relevant supply gap for outpatient and inpatient interventions was identified, with corresponding effects on the eye health of the population, while compensation or performance enhancement have not taken place to date. Facing the growing preload and the demographic development, future structures must therefore allow for an increase in the performance of specialist ophthalmological departments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Karaca
- Research & Development, digmed GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Enno Bialas
- Research & Development, digmed GmbH, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Jörg-Andreas Rüggeberg
- Specialist in surgery and trauma surgery sports medicine, Professional Association of German Surgeons e. V. (BDC), Bremen, Germany
| | | | - Focke Ziemssen
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
- Center for Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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11
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Pessoa B, Leite J, Ferreira A, Ramalhão J, Poças J, José D, Coelho C, Figueira J, Meireles A, Beirão JM. Oct biomarkers for early prognosis in diabetic macular edema treatment with ranibizumab. Eur J Ophthalmol 2023:11206721231210753. [PMID: 37919940 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231210753] [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: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic macular edema is the main cause of vision loss in patients with diabetic retinopathy. In this work, we aimed to assess the role of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) biomarkers in patients treated with ranibizumab. METHODS A prospective study enrolling 46 eyes with DME under ranibizumab intravitreal therapy with 12 months of follow-up. The primary endpoint was to assess the association between OCT biomarkers at baseline and the type of treatment response. RESULTS Good responders, compared with partial/non responders, had lower number of inner nuclear layer cysts (INLc) at baseline, (26.5% vs 73.5%, p = 0.035) and presented, at 12 months of follow-up, lower percentage of disorganization of retinal inner layers (12.0% vs 88.0%, p = 0.001), lower disruption of outer plexiform layer (8.7% vs 91.3%, p < 0.001) and lower outer nuclear layer cysts (17.4% vs 82.6%, p = 0.013). At the end of follow-up, it was observed a higher frequency of inner nuclear layer cysts in patients with higher glycated haemoglobin (p = 0.028). CONCLUSION This study showed the value and importance of OCT parameters, such as absence of INLc, as a prognostic therapeutic response. A normalization of the macular anatomy with ranibizumab is more likely to happen in early complete responders. The association between INLc and higher glycated haemoglobin levels showed the importance of systemic metabolic control in systemic diabetic manifestations. Clinicaltrials.gov NCT04387604.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardete Pessoa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Leite
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - André Ferreira
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Unit of Anatomy, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto, Portugal
| | - João Ramalhão
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Poças
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana José
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
| | - Constança Coelho
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Figueira
- Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Angelina Meireles
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - João Melo Beirão
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Gabrielle PH, Mehta H, Barthelmes D, Daien V, Nguyen V, Gillies MC, Creuzot-Garcher CP. From randomised controlled trials to real-world data: Clinical evidence to guide management of diabetic macular oedema. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 97:101219. [PMID: 37898362 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101219] [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: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) are generally considered the gold-standard for providing scientific evidence for treatments' effectiveness and safety but their findings may not always be generalisable to the broader population treated in routine clinical practice. RCTs include highly selected patient populations that fit specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Although they may have a lower level of certainty than RCTs on the evidence hierarchy, real-world data (RWD), such as observational studies, registries and databases, provide real-world evidence (RWE) that can complement RCTs. For example, RWE may help satisfy requirements for a new indication of an already approved drug and help us better understand long-term treatment effectiveness, safety and patterns of use in clinical practice. Many countries have set up registries, observational studies and databases containing information on patients with retinal diseases, such as diabetic macular oedema (DMO). These DMO RWD have produced significant clinical evidence in the past decade that has changed the management of DMO. RWD and medico-administrative databases are a useful resource to identify low frequency safety signals. They often have long-term follow-up with a large number of patients and minimal exclusion criteria. We will discuss improvements in healthcare information exchange technologies, such as blockchain technology and FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources), which will connect and extend databases already available. These registries can be linked with existing or emerging retinal imaging modalities using artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis, treatment decisions and provide prognostic information. The results of RCTs and RWE are combined to provide evidence-based guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Henry Gabrielle
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, Burgundy, France; The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hemal Mehta
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Ophthalmology Department, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Barthelmes
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Daien
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France; Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Vuong Nguyen
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark C Gillies
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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13
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Bakri SJ, Delyfer MN, Grauslund J, Andersen S, Karcher H. Real-World Persistence and Treatment Interval in Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema Treated with Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors in the USA. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:2465-2477. [PMID: 37347405 PMCID: PMC10441838 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00750-9] [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: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is little understanding of long-term treatment persistence in patients receiving anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections for diabetic macular edema (DME), particularly relating to treatment intervals. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between treatment interval and discontinuation rate after 24 months of unilateral anti-VEGF treatment in patients with DME under routine clinical care in the USA. METHODS This was a non-interventional, retrospective cohort study to review the health insurance claims of adults with DME linked with the IBM MarketScan® Commercial and Medicare Supplemental databases, who were continuously enrolled in a health plan for at least 6 months prior to their first anti-VEGF treatment and for a duration of at least 24 months between July 2011 and June 2017. Patients were grouped on the basis of the injection interval they achieved at 24 months of treatment. Discontinuation rate beyond 24 months and its association with treatment intervals at 24 months was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS The overall discontinuation rate among the 1702 eligible patients from 24 to 60 months after treatment initiation was 30%. At 60 months, patients were more likely to remain on treatment in shorter (75.3% [4-week interval group]) versus longer treatment interval groups (62.1% [> 12-week interval group], difference = 13.2%, [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06, 2.06], p = 0.01). Patients on a > 12-week interval were twice as likely to discontinue treatment compared with those on an 8-week interval (hazard ratio = 2.01 [95% CI 1.43, 2.82], p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Patients with DME on longer anti-VEGF treatment intervals at 24 months consistently had higher discontinuation rates in the following years than those on shorter treatment intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie J Bakri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA.
| | - Marie-Noelle Delyfer
- University of Bordeaux, Team "Lifelong Exposures, Health and Aging" (LEHA), Inserm U1219, Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, Bordeaux, France
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bordeaux University Hospital, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jakob Grauslund
- Department of Ophthalmology & Steno Diabetes Center Odense, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Vestfold University Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
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14
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Shahzad H, Mahmood S, McGee S, Hubbard J, Haque S, Paudyal V, Denniston AK, Hill LJ, Jalal Z. Non-adherence and non-persistence to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Syst Rev 2023; 12:92. [PMID: 37269003 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-023-02261-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections play a key role in treating a range of macular diseases. The effectiveness of these therapies is dependent on patients' adherence (the extent to which a patient takes their medicines as per agreed recommendations from the healthcare provider) and persistence (continuation of the treatment for the prescribed duration) to their prescribed treatment regimens. The aim of this systematic review was to demonstrate the need for further investigation into the prevalence of, and factors contributing to, patient-led non-adherence and non-persistence, thus facilitating improved clinical outcomes. METHODS Systematic searches were conducted in Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library. Studies in English conducted before February 2023 that reported the level of, and/or barriers to, non-adherence or non-persistence to intravitreal anti-VEGF ocular disease therapy were included. Duplicate papers, literature reviews, expert opinion articles, case studies, and case series were excluded following screening by two independent authors. RESULTS Data from a total of 409,215 patients across 52 studies were analysed. Treatment regimens included pro re nata, monthly and treat-and-extend protocols; study durations ranged from 4 months to 8 years. Of the 52 studies, 22 included a breakdown of reasons for patient non-adherence/non-persistence. Patient-led non-adherence varied between 17.5 and 35.0% depending on the definition used. Overall pooled prevalence of patient-led treatment non-persistence was 30.0% (P = 0.000). Reasons for non-adherence/non-persistence included dissatisfaction with treatment results (29.9%), financial burden (19%), older age/comorbidities (15.5%), difficulty booking appointments (8.5%), travel distance/social isolation (7.9%), lack of time (5.8%), satisfaction with the perceived improvement in their condition (4.4%), fear of injection (4.0%), loss of motivation (4.0%), apathy towards eyesight (2.5%), dissatisfaction with facilities 2.3%, and discomfort/pain (0.3%). Three studies found non-adherence rates between 51.6 and 68.8% during the COVID-19 pandemic, in part due to fear of exposure to COVID-19 and difficulties travelling during lockdown. DISCUSSION Results suggest high levels of patient-led non-adherence/non-persistence to anti-VEGF therapy, mostly due to dissatisfaction with treatment results, a combination of comorbidities, loss of motivation and the burden of travel. This study provides key information on prevalence and factors contributing to non-adherence/non-persistence in anti-VEGF treatment for macular diseases, aiding identification of at-risk individuals to improve real-world visual outcomes. Improvements in the literature can be achieved by establishing uniform definitions and standard timescales for what constitutes non-adherence/non-persistence. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42020216205.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haris Shahzad
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Sajid Mahmood
- Deputy Drugs Controller, Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department, Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sean McGee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jessica Hubbard
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sayeed Haque
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Vibhu Paudyal
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alastair K Denniston
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre at Moorfields Eye Hospital and University College London Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham Health Partners Centre for Regulatory Science and Innovation, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Health Data Research UK, London, UK
| | - Lisa J Hill
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zahraa Jalal
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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15
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Real-World Outcomes of Anti-VEGF Therapy in Diabetic Macular Oedema: Barriers to Treatment Success and Implications for Low/Lower-Middle-Income Countries. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:809-826. [PMID: 36821027 PMCID: PMC10011234 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00672-6] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macular oedema (DMO) is the leading cause of vision loss associated with diabetic eye disease. The exponential increase in the diabetic population and thus, of DMO is an impetus for optimizing the management of DMO. One major challenge in DMO management is the discrepancy between treatment outcomes seen in clinical trials and the real world. Contrary to the homogeneity, better patient motivation and shorter study durations seen in randomised control trials, routine clinical practice is fraught with more diverse populations, undertreatment and variable compliance with long-term therapy. Under both circumstances, this review aims to compare efficacy outcomes and adverse events of DMO therapies within the scope of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications, specifically the commonly used ones-bevacizumab, ranibizumab and aflibercept. Impediments and methods to achieve better treatment outcomes in the real world will be addressed to achieve better outcomes. Low- to lower-middle-income countries are faced with even more barriers which range from paucity of data on epidemiology and treatment response to scarce human and financial resources to poorer national level attention and then basic issues like transportation. Additionally, to address the lack of a global consensus in DMO treatment, this review generates and recommends, for clinical and research purposes, an up-to-date consensus algorithm for DMO management universally. Underpinned by results from clinical trials and recent guidelines, this therapeutic flowchart can be utilised in various resource settings including low- and lower-middle-income countries where affordability is a major deterrent to treatment access.
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16
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Faes L, Golla K, Islam M, Lienhard KR, Schmid MK, Sim DA, Bachmann LM. System usability, user satisfaction and long-term adherence to mobile hyperacuity home monitoring-prospective follow-up study. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:650-654. [PMID: 35292773 PMCID: PMC9998848 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-01959-x] [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: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the usability and long-term adherence to the mobile hyperacuity app Alleye in patients with retinal pathology. METHODS We enroled 72 patients (95 eyes) mainly treated for wet AMD (48/95; 50.5%). We calculated changes of clinical characteristics and the System Usability Score (SUS), and personal ratings of usefulness and number of tests performed per month at a follow-up visit of eighteen months. RESULTS At baseline, mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 74.9 letters (SD 14.8), mean age was 69.9 (SD 11.4) and 39/72 (54.2%) were female. Of included patients, 47/72 (65.2%) reported to use mobile devices daily. The retention rate until last follow-up was 73.6 % (53/72). The median SUS score at baseline was 90 (interquartile range (IQR) 82.5-95) and 92.5 (IQR 82.5-95) in the follow-up. No association between changes of SUS and clinical characteristics was seen. At baseline, 76.4% (55/72) stated that they would recommend the app to a friend, 83.3% (60/72) were very satisfied with the app and 58/72 (80.6%) of respondents said they trusted the app. These assessments remained similar among patients remaining on the program until the follow-up. Patients who dropped out of the study (n = 19) did not differ in age, gender, BCVA, and SUS at baseline, but stated that they did not use the mobile device daily (Odds Ratio 7.40 (95%CI: 2.32-23.65); p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The majority of users willing to perform home monitoring with the Alleye app are satisfied with the usability and have a positive attitude towards its trustworthiness and usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Faes
- Eye Clinic, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
| | - Kathrin Golla
- Eye Clinic, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | | | - Kenny R Lienhard
- Oculocare Medical AG, Zurich, Switzerland
- Medignition AG, Research Consultants, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin K Schmid
- Eye Clinic, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- Oculocare Medical AG, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Lucas M Bachmann
- Oculocare Medical AG, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Medignition AG, Research Consultants, Zurich, Switzerland.
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17
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Hovanesian J, Singh IP, Bauskar A, Vantipalli S, Ozden RG, Goldstein MH. Identifying and addressing common contributors to nonadherence with ophthalmic medical therapy. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2023; 34:S1-S13. [PMID: 36951648 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To discuss common reasons for nonadherence and review existing and emerging options to reduce nonadherence with ocular medical therapy and optimize therapeutic outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Nonadherence can arise from patient-related issues (e.g. physical, cognitive) and healthcare-related issues (e.g. cost, access to care). Multiple strategies have been developed and evaluated to overcome these barriers to adherence. Identifying nonadherence and its cause(s) facilitates the development of strategies to overcome it. SUMMARY Many common causes of nonadherence can be mitigated through a variety of strategies presented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - I Paul Singh
- The Eye Centers of Racine and Kenosha, Racine, Wisconsin
| | - Aditi Bauskar
- Ocular Therapeutix, Inc., Bedford, Massachusetts USA
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18
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Kaya M, Öztürk T, Koçak N, Akbulut Yağcı B, Ataş F, Kaynak S. Ranibizumab or Aflibercept Monotherapies in Treatment-Naive Eyes with Diabetic Macular Edema: A Head-to-Head Comparison in Real-Life Experience. Turk J Ophthalmol 2023; 53:30-36. [PMID: 36847631 PMCID: PMC9973208 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2022.38227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To compare the functional and anatomical outcomes of ranibizumab and aflibercept monotherapies given according to a pro re nata (PRN) protocol in treatment-naive eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) in a real-life clinical setting. Materials and Methods The medical charts of treatment-naive patients with center-involved DME retrieved from our institutional database were reviewed in this retrospective cohort study. A total of 512 treatment-naive eyes with DME underwent either ranibizumab (Group I; 308 eyes) or aflibercept (Group II; 204 eyes) monotherapy and 462 patients were included. The primary outcome was visual gain over 12 months. Results The mean number of intravitreal injections within the first year was 4.34±1.83 and 4.39±2.12 in Group I and II, respectively (p=0.260). The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement at 12 months was +5.7 and +6.5 ETDRS letters in Group I and II, respectively (p=0.321). However, among eyes with a BCVA score less than 69 ETDRS letters (54% of the study population), visual gain was more prominent in Group II (+15.2 vs. +12.1 ETDRS letters; p<0.001). Statistically significant decreases in central foveal thickness were observed with both ranibizumab and aflibercept monotherapy (p<0.001), with no significant difference between the groups. (p=0.148). Conclusions No statistically significant difference was found in visual outcomes at 12-month follow-up between ranibizumab and aflibercept monotherapies using a PRN protocol, although there was a tendency toward slightly better functional and anatomic prognosis in the aflibercept arm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut Kaya
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
| | - Taylan Öztürk
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
| | - Nilüfer Koçak
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
| | - Betül Akbulut Yağcı
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
| | - Ferdane Ataş
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
| | - Süleyman Kaynak
- Dokuz Eylül University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, İzmir, Türkiye
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19
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Chakraborty D, Mondal S, Boral S, Das A, Sinha TK, Majumdar S, Bhattacharya R, Maitra R. Biosimilar versus InnovAtor MoLecule of RAnibizumab in Neovascular Age-Related MaCular DEgeneration (The BALANCE Trial): Real-World Evidence. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:1067-1076. [PMID: 37064960 PMCID: PMC10097398 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s407219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To analyse outcomes of innovator ranibizumab (IRM) (Lucentis) and biosimilar ranibizumab (BRM) (Razumab) in Indian eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods Retrospective observational study in nAMD patients, who were treated with IRM or BRM (3 loading doses followed by pro re nata (PRN). Primary outcome measures were change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) along with safety analysis. Secondary outcomes measures were changes in the subretinal fluid (SRF) and intraretinal fluid (IRF). Results Inclusion criteria were satisfied in 164 eyes (60.74%). A total of 87 eyes were treated with IRM, and 77 eyes received BRM. Baseline BCVA was 0.57±0.27 logMAR in IRM group and 0.61±0.25 in the BRM group. At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months BCVA was 0.27±0.22 (p<0.0001), 0.34±0.23 (p<0.0001), 0.39±0.25 (p<0.0001), and 12 months 0.41±0.23 (p<0.0001) in the IRM group and 0.24±0.16 (p<0.0001), 0.27±0.16 (p<0.0001), 0.34±0.17 (p<0.0001), 0.38±0.18 (p<0.0001) in the BRM group. Baseline CMT was 420.39±54.45 μm in IRM group and 407.82±53.07 μm in BRM group. At 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, CMT decreased to 258.28±20.4 μm (p<0.0001), 268.38±19.5 μm (p<0.0001), 269.51±32.41 μm (p<0.0001), and 278.28±16.56 μm (p<0.0001) in the IRM group and 258.84±17.47 μm (p<0.0001), 265.69±17.29 μm (p<0.0001), 273.64±23.13 μm (p<0.0001), and 283.09±19.66 μm (p<0.0001) in the BRM group. Similar improvements in IRF and SRF levels in the patients were noted in both groups. Required number of doses of IRM and BRM was similar over the 12 month period in both groups. A similar profile of adverse events was noted in both the groups. Conclusion Intravitreal injection of IRM and BRM show similar efficacy and safety in Indian eyes with nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debdulal Chakraborty
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Correspondence: Debdulal Chakraborty, Department of Vitreoretinal services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, Tel +91 33 66360000, Email
| | - Soumen Mondal
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Subhendu Boral
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Arnab Das
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Tushar Kanti Sinha
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Saptorshi Majumdar
- Department of Vitreoretinal Services, Disha Eye Hospitals, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
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20
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Song W, Kanyo E, Bastian R, Singh RP, Rachitskaya AV. Visual Acuity in Patients Requiring Intravitreal Injections: Short-Term and Long-Term Effects of Delay in Care. JOURNAL OF VITREORETINAL DISEASES 2022; 7:20-26. [PMID: 37008399 PMCID: PMC9954165 DOI: 10.1177/24741264221136637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To assess the short-term and long-term effects of a delay in care on visual acuity (VA) in patients requiring intravitreal injections. Methods: This retrospective cohort study comprised patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), or retinal vein occlusion (RVO) receiving intravitreal injections. The visual and anatomic outcomes at the next completed visit and at the 1-year follow-up were studied. Results: Of 1172 patients, 38% had a delay in care (mean 5.7 weeks). Compared with baseline, these patients lost VA (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters) (mean −2.13 ± 0.49 SE) in the short-term ( P = .0003) and had a thicker central subfield. Patients with no delay in care had a net VA gain (0.97 ± 0.39) ( P = .0067). There was no difference in VA between 1 year and the baseline in either group. Long term, patients with nAMD in both groups had VA loss (no delay in care: −1.76 ± 0.60; delayed care: −2.44 ± 0.78) ( P = .0005 and P = .0114, respectively). Patients with DME and no delay in care maintained gains in vision (4.68 ± 1.86) but those with delayed care did not (1.72 ± 2.24) ( P = .0202 and P = .3756, respectively). In both groups, patients with RVO had no significant difference in vision from baseline. Conclusions: In patients requiring intravitreal injections, a delay in care of 5.7 weeks affected vision outcomes in the short term but not the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilin Song
- Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Emese Kanyo
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Riley Bastian
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | - Rishi P. Singh
- Center for Ophthalmic Bioinformatics, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
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21
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Siddiqui ZA, Dhumal T, Patel J, LeMasters T, Almony A, Kamal KM. Cost impact of different treatment regimens of brolucizumab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: A budget impact analysis. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2022; 28:1350-1364. [PMID: 36427338 PMCID: PMC10373014 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2022.28.12.1350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Brolucizumab is a new anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) approved for treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Multiple treatment regimens are available for treating nAMD. These regimens include manufacturer-recommended regimens, pro re nata (PRN) regimens, and treat-and-extend (T&E) regimens, which are based on clinical practice guidelines and data observed in the real-world clinical setting, classified as real-world evidence (RWE). Most budget impact models predict the financial consequences of adding a new drug to the formulary based on the manufacturer-recommended regimen. With different anti-VEGF treatment regimens being used in nAMD by ophthalmologists, it is OBJECTIVE: To estimate the budget impact of different treatment regimens of brolucizumab in nAMD from a US payer perspective. METHODS: A Microsoft Excel-based budget impact model was developed for different treatment regimens of brolucizumab over a 1-year time frame from a US payer perspective. A separate analysis was performed to estimate the budget impact from a US patient population perspective. Model inputs included drug costs, administration costs, physician visit costs, and disease monitoring costs. Outcomes in the budget impact model included the cost per member per month, annual health plan cost, and the US patient population-based annual cost. Based on the prevalence of nAMD in public and commercial health plans, a scenario analysis was conducted on the US population to account for the differences in the drug cost to the public and commercial payers. Further, 1-way sensitivity analyses were conducted to test model assumptions and uncertainty in model inputs. RESULTS: The addition of brolucizumab to the formulary increased the net budgetary impact under PRN and T&E regimens. The maximum increase in expenditure for a hypothetical health plan with 1 million enrollees was associated with the PRN regimen ($824,696), followed by the T&E regimen ($163,101). In contrast, using the manufacturer-recommended and RWE regimens led to an annual saving of $93,068 and $94,170 for the health plan, respectively. In the US patient population model, the introduction of brolucizumab resulted in savings in the manufacturer-recommended ($30.99 million) and RWE regimens ($31.35 million) but led to an increase in annual expenditures for the PRN ($274.58 million) and T&E ($54.30 million) regimens. CONCLUSIONS: Payers need to evaluate the cost impact of different treatment regimens of existing and new anti-VEGFs when making formulary decisions in nAMD management. DISCLOSURES: Mr Siddiqui, Ms Dhumal, Dr Patel, and Dr LeMasters have nothing to disclose. Dr Kamal has received research funding from Cerevel Therapeutics, served as a consultant to Pfizer/Cytel Inc, and received honoraria from Pharmacy Times Continuing Education. Dr Almony has served as a consultant to Cardinal Health and received honoraria from Pharmacy Times Continuing Education and Prime Education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Trupti Dhumal
- School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, Morgantown
| | - Jay Patel
- College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Arghavan Almony
- Carolina Eye Associates, Southern Pines, NC, and School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC
| | - Khalid M Kamal
- School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, Morgantown
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22
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Angermann R, Franchi A, Frede K, Stöckl V, Palme C, Kralinger M, Zehetner C. Long-term persistence with aflibercept therapy among treatment-naïve patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration in a universal health care system: a retrospective study. BMC Ophthalmol 2022; 22:372. [PMID: 36123657 PMCID: PMC9483893 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-022-02593-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to analyse the persistence rates of treatment-naïve patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) who received intravitreal aflibercept therapy in a universal health care system. Methods In this single-centre retrospective cohort study, we audited data of 918 treatment-naïve patients who received exclusively intravitreal aflibercept therapy for nAMD between September 2015 and May 2021. The primary outcome measures were the rates of treatment nonpersistence (gap in ophthalmological care > 6 months) and long-term nonpersistence (> 12 months). Results The rates of nonpersistence and long-term nonpersistence were 12.3% and 3.4% after one year; 22.4% and 9.5% after two years; and 38.3% and 19.3% after five years, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that older age (p = 0.045), male sex (p = 0.039), requirement for caretakers or ambulance (p = 0.001), and low visual acuity of the study eye (p = 0.010) or fellow eye (p = 0.029) were independent risk factors for long-term nonpersistence. Patients aged > 80 and > 85 years (p = 0.013 and p = 0.022, respectively) had more than twice the risk for being nonpersistent to therapy within two years of follow-up compared with younger patients. Male patients (p = 0.033), patients requiring a caretaker (p = 0.038), and patients living > 60 km from the clinic (p = 0.029) had a 2 × higher risk of being persistently nonpersistent to therapy. Conclusions Patients with nAMD who were treated with aflibercept had lower nonpersistence rates than those reported in current literature. Multiple independent risk factors were correlated with long-term nonpersistence, early nonpersistence, or complete loss to follow-up. Considering the possible consequences of reduced compliance, further strategies are urgently needed for patients at risk of nonpersistence to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhard Angermann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.,Department of Ophthalmology, Landesklinikum Mistelbach/Gänserndorf, Lichtensteinstraße 67, 2130, Mistelbach, Austria
| | - Alexander Franchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Katharina Frede
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Victoria Stöckl
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christoph Palme
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martina Kralinger
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claus Zehetner
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
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23
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Holz FG, Iida T, Maruko I, Sadda SR. A CONSENSUS ON RISK MITIGATION FOR BROLUCIZUMAB IN NEOVASCULAR AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION: Patient Selection, Evaluation, and Treatment. Retina 2022; 42:1629-1637. [PMID: 35994582 PMCID: PMC9387760 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brolucizumab has high efficacy in retinal fluid resolution and provides the possibility for longer dosing intervals in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. However, brolucizumab has been associated with events of retinal vasculitis and retinal vascular occlusion typically in the presence of other signs of intraocular inflammation (IOI). The purpose of this report is to provide guidance on the use of brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration to a global audience. METHODS A literature review was conducted on adverse events related to IOI after administration of brolucizumab in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. RESULTS Possible risk factors for IOI and retinal vascular occlusion after brolucizumab should be considered before administering brolucizumab. Patients who receive brolucizumab should be educated on the symptoms, signs, and time course of IOI after brolucizumab. Before each injection of brolucizumab, physicians should assess the eye for any signs of inflammation and not treat with brolucizumab if inflammation is detected. Treatment of IOI should be prompt and provided with particular attention to the posterior segment. CONCLUSION Careful patient selection, patient education, assessment for inflammation, and intensive treatment of possible inflammation are important when using brolucizumab in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank G. Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Tomohiro Iida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; and
| | - Ichiro Maruko
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; and
| | - SriniVas R. Sadda
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Los Angeles, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California
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24
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Bui YT, Starr MR, Kung FF, Mejia CA, Bakri SJ. Long-Term Visual Outcomes in Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration Patients With Unanticipated Gaps in Therapy. Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2022; 53:481-489. [PMID: 36107628 DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20220819-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES This study's objective was to describe long-term visual outcomes of patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) treated with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections who were lost to follow-up and then resumed treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of eyes with at least 7 years of follow-up following the initiation of treatment for wet AMD with and without gaps in therapy. RESULTS The baseline mean logMAR visual acuity was 0.65 ± 0.5 (Snellen acuity 20/89) in eyes with gaps in therapy and 0.53 ± 0.3 (20/68) in eyes without gaps. In the initial 7-year follow-up period, the eyes with gaps in therapy had significantly worse visual acuity (P < .001) and this remained significant when accounting for baseline visual acuity (P < .001). CONCLUSIONS Gaps in intravitreal injection therapy for exudative AMD were negatively associated with visual acuity. Adherence to therapy is important to address in the care of patients with exudative AMD. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2022;53:481-489.].
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25
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von der Burchard C, Sudkamp H, Tode J, Ehlken C, Purtskhvanidze K, Moltmann M, Heimes B, Koch P, Münst M, Vom Endt M, Kepp T, Theisen-Kunde D, König I, Hüttmann G, Roider J. Self-Examination Low-Cost Full-Field Optical Coherence Tomography (SELFF-OCT) for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055082. [PMID: 35760534 PMCID: PMC9237881 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Self-Examination Low-Cost Full-Field Optical Coherence Tomography (SELFF-OCT) is a novel OCT technology that was specifically designed for home monitoring of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). First clinical findings have been reported before. This trial investigates an improved prototype for patients with AMD and focusses on device operability and diagnostic accuracy compared with established spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT). DESIGN Prospective single-arm diagnostic accuracy study. SETTING Tertiary care centre (University Eye Clinic). PARTICIPANTS 46 patients with age-related macular degeneration. INTERVENTIONS Patients received short training in device handling and then performed multiple self-scans with the SELFF-OCT according to a predefined protocol. Additionally, all eyes were examined with standard SD-OCT, performed by medical personnel. All images were graded by at least 2 masked investigators in a reading centre. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE Rate of successful self-measurements. SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Sensitivity and specificity of SELFF-OCT versus SD-OCT for different biomarkers and necessity for antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment. RESULTS In 86% of all examined eyes, OCT self-acquisition resulted in interpretable retinal OCT volume scans. In these patients, the sensitivity for detection of anti-VEGF treatment necessity was 0.94 (95% CI 0.79 to 0.99) and specificity 0.95 (95% CI 0.82 to 0.99). CONCLUSIONS SELFF-OCT was used successfully for retinal self-examination in most patients, and it could become a valuable tool for retinal home monitoring in the future. Improvements are in progress to reduce device size and to improve handling, image quality and success rates. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00013755, CIV-17-12-022384.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan Tode
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Cristoph Ehlken
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
| | | | | | - Britta Heimes
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Franziskus-Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Peter Koch
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | | | - Timo Kepp
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Inke König
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, University of Lübeck, Lubeck, Germany
| | - Gereon Hüttmann
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Lübeck, Germany
- Institute of Biomedical Optics, University of Lübeck, Lubeck, Germany
| | - Johann Roider
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany
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26
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Tan ACS, Schwartz R, Anaya D, Chatziralli I, Yuan M, Cicinelli MV, Faes L, Mustapha M, Phasukkijwatana N, Pohlmann D, Reynolds R, Rosenblatt A, Savastano A, Touhami S, Vaezi K, Ventura CV, Vogt D, Ambati J, de Smet MD, Loewenstein A. Are intravitreal injections essential during the COVID-19 pandemic? Global preferred practice patterns and practical recommendations. Int J Retina Vitreous 2022; 8:33. [PMID: 35672810 PMCID: PMC9171474 DOI: 10.1186/s40942-022-00380-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Tertiary outpatient ophthalmology clinics are high-risk environments for COVID-19 transmission, especially retina clinics, where regular follow-up is needed for elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. Intravitreal injection therapy (IVT) for chronic macular diseases, is one of the most common procedures performed, associated with a significant burden of care because of the vigorous treatment regimen associated with multiple investigations. While minimizing the risk of COVID-19 infection transmission is a priority, this must be balanced against the continued provision of sight-saving ophthalmic care to patients at risk of permanent vision loss. This review aims to give evidence-based guidelines on managing IVT during the COVID-19 pandemic in common macular diseases such as age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macula edema and retinal vascular disease and to report on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected IVT practices worldwide. To illustrate some real-world examples, 18 participants in the International Retina Collaborative, from 15 countries and across four continents, were surveyed regarding pre- and during- COVID-19 pandemic IVT practices in tertiary ophthalmic centers. The majority of centers reported a reduction in the number of appointments to reduce the risk of the spread of COVID-19 with varying changes to their IVT regimen to treat various macula diseases. Due to the constantly evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the uncertainty about the normal resumption of health services, we suggest that new solutions for eye healthcare provision, like telemedicine, may be adopted in the future when we consider new long-term adaptations required to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- A C S Tan
- Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore, Singapore. .,Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore. .,Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
| | - R Schwartz
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - D Anaya
- Department of Retina, Clínica de Oftalmología de Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia
| | - I Chatziralli
- 2nd Department of Ophthalmology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - M Yuan
- Department of Retina, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - M V Cicinelli
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - L Faes
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Cantonal Hospital Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - M Mustapha
- Department of Ophthalmology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kulala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - N Phasukkijwatana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - D Pohlmann
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, FreieUiversität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
| | - R Reynolds
- Department of Ophthalmology, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Wales, UK
| | - A Rosenblatt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Tel-Aviv, Israel Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - A Savastano
- Ophthalmology Department, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - S Touhami
- Department of Ophthalmology, Reference Center in Rare diseases, DHU Sight Restore, Hôpital Pitié Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 47-83 Boulevard de l'Hôpital, 75013, Paris, France
| | - K Vaezi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - C V Ventura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Altino Ventura Foundation (FAV), Recife, Brazil.,Department of Ophthalmology, HOPE Eye Hospital, Recife, Brazil
| | - D Vogt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - J Ambati
- Center for Advanced Vision Science, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - M D de Smet
- Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.,MIOS sa, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - A Loewenstein
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center Tel-Aviv, Israel Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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The negative impact of COVID-19 pandemic on age-related macular degeneration patients treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 42:3387-3395. [PMID: 35604624 PMCID: PMC9125960 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02337-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Purpose COVID-19 emerged in the end of 2019 and was declared a worldwide pandemic shortly after. Social distancing and lockdowns resulted in lower compliance in intravitreal injections and office visits. We aimed to assess clinical outcomes among patients who missed these visits compared to those who arrived as planned. Methods Patients who missed or were late to office visits or intravitreal injections were defined as non-adherent and were compared to adherent patients. Our main outcomes were the need for subsequent injections, mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and central macular thickness (CMT). Results This study included 77 patients (24 adherent and 53 non-adherent). The mean BCVA remained stable during the study period for the adherent group (p = 0.159) and worsened in the non-adherent group (p < 0.001). Changes in CMT and maximum thickness were not significant for either group. A higher proportion of patients in the non-adherent group needed subsequent intravitreal injections (49% vs 20%, p = 0.014). Conclusion The findings demonstrate the negative implications of the COVID-19 pandemic and the effect of deferring bevacizumab injections among individuals with age-related macular degeneration. This emphasizes the importance of a scheduled follow-up, also during a pandemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10792-022-02337-y.
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Schmid A, Bucher F, Liczenczias E, Maslanka Figueroa S, Müller B, Agostini H. nAMD: optimization of patient care and patient-oriented information with the help of an internet-based survey. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 260:3241-3253. [PMID: 35552499 PMCID: PMC9477947 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-022-05678-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This survey was conducted to identify factors that influence how patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) deal with their disease and information that are considered useful from a patient's point of view. METHODS A total of 5035 patients with nAMD living in Germany were interviewed via internet-based cross-sectional survey, where the following information was collected: personal data, disease awareness, and patients' needs. In addition, a Quality of Life questionnaire (SF-12v2) could be completed. RESULTS Out of the 5035 participants, more males than females participated (55% vs 45%), and most participants were in the age groups 76 to 85 years (37%) and 66 to 75 years (35%). Seventy-three percent of patients rated their understanding of the disease as at least sufficient, and more than two-thirds of the patients (68%) were aware that their disease needs to be controlled on a regular basis and treated on an "as needed" basis. Regarding potential risk factors for AMD, most participants were aware of age (89%), but only 39% of hereditary load and 33% of smoking as evidence-based risk factors, indicating a need for further information. The doctor remains the major source of information (93%), with internet (29%), brochures (14%), opticians (13%), or patient support groups (4%) with only limited contribution. Distance to the treatment center was identified as one of the factors, which had the greatest influence on patients' compliance. A "treat as needed" regime turned out to be the preferred control and treatment schedule in contrast to a "fixed appointment" every 4 weeks. CONCLUSION This internet-based survey appears to be representative for nAMD patients. To increase patients' compliance, proximity to the treatment center and a "treat as needed" regime turned out to be important factors as well as patients' awareness of their disease. In this regard, the reported desire for more information indicates that patients' knowledge still needs to be improved. Our results will help to further optimize patient care and patient-oriented information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Schmid
- Eye Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Felicitas Bucher
- Eye Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the available data supporting the use of brolucizumab in the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME). RECENT FINDINGS Brolucizumab is a humanized single- chain variable antibody fragment (scFv), the smallest functional subunit of an antibody approved for intravitreal use. Three phase III studies demonstrate that at 52 weeks, brolucizumab has statistically superior anatomical outcomes of reducing retinal thickness (54.0-57.5% of brolucizumab treated eyes achieved central subfield thickness <280 μm compared to 40.1 - 41.4% of aflibercept treated eyes) and retinal fluid (present in 54.2-60.3% of brolucizumab treated eyes compared to 72.9-78.2% of aflibercept treated eyes). Brolucizumab also demonstrated a prolonged durability up to 16 weeks, thus reducing treatment burden. The visual outcomes appear noninferior to current anti-VEGF agents with an increased risk for intraocular inflammatory events (0.3-4.7% compared to 0.6-1.7%). SUMMARY Results from recent phase III trials showing the efficacy and safety of brolucizumab presents an additional therapeutic option in the DME treatment landscape. It can reduce treatment burden in DME with increased inter-treatment intervals while conferring efficacy in both functional and anatomical outcomes. Caution should be taken regarding the risks of intraocular inflammation, retinal vasculitis, and retinal vascular occlusion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rishi P Singh
- Center for Ophthalmic Bioinformatics, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Gabrielle P, Nguyen V, Bhandari S, Mehta H, Viola F, Arnold J, Fraser‐Bell S, Barthelmes D, Creuzot‐Garcher C, Gillies M. Initial observation or treatment for diabetic macular oedema with good visual acuity: two-year outcomes comparison in routine clinical practice: data from the Fight Retinal Blindness! Registry. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100:285-294. [PMID: 33196150 PMCID: PMC9290829 DOI: 10.1111/aos.14672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Purpose To compare visual acuity (VA) change at 24 months in eyes with clinically significant DME (CSDME) and good VA initially treated versus initially observed in routine clinical practice. Methods Retrospective analysis of treatment‐naïve eyes with CSDME and good VA (baseline VA ≥ 79 letters), with at least 24 months of follow‐up and initially managed with treatment (intravitreal treatment and/or macular laser) or observation with possible treatment after 4 months that were tracked in a prospectively designed observational registry. Results We identified 150 eligible eyes (98 initially observed, 52 initially treated) of 130 patients. The proportion of eyes with at least a 5‐letter VA loss at 24 months was not significantly different between the groups: 65% with initial observation and 42% with initial treatment (p = 0.39). However, initially observed eyes were more likely to have a 10‐letter VA loss at 24 months (OR = 4.6, p = 0.022). Most of eyes in the initial observation group received at least one treatment (an intravitreal injection in 66% and macular laser in 20%) during the 24‐month period. Conclusions The risk of 5 letters loss was similar between both management groups. However, initially observed eyes were more at risk of developing moderate visual loss and more than 80% of them required treatment over 24 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre‐Henry Gabrielle
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology Dijon University Hospital Dijon France
| | - Vuong Nguyen
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Sanjeeb Bhandari
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Hemal Mehta
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust London UK
| | - Francesco Viola
- IRCCS Cà Granda Foundation Maggiore Policlinico Hospital University of Milan Milan Italy
| | | | - Samantha Fraser‐Bell
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
| | - Daniel Barthelmes
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology University Hospital Zurich University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | | | - Mark Gillies
- Sydney Medical School Discipline of Ophthalmology Save Sight Institute The University of Sydney Sydney New South Wales Australia
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Delayed follow-up in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated under universal health coverage: risk factors and visual outcomes. Retina 2022; 42:1693-1701. [PMID: 35504012 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the rate of delayed follow-up visits (DFU), to identify risk factors of DFU and to assess the impact of DFU on outcomes in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). PATIENTS AND METHODS This retrospective study included all nAMD patients (n=1291) treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections between January 2013 and December 2020 in two centers in Quebec, Canada. A DFU was defined as a delay of ≥4 weeks than scheduled. Visual outcomes, especially ≥15 letters loss, were reported. RESULTS A total of 351 patients (27.2%) experienced ≥1 DFU. Odds were greater among older patients (P=0.005), patients treated at the hospital rather than the clinic (P<0.001), and patients with worse initial visual acuity (VA) (P=0.024). A DFU was associated with a mean VA loss of 4.2±13.4 letters (P<0.001), and an increased incidence of intraretinal (IRF) and subretinal fluid (SRF) (P=0.001, P=0.005) at six months despite resumption of injections. Central foveal thickness (CFT) increased after DFU but returned to pre-DFU visit at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS The DFU rate in nAMD patients treated under a universal healthcare system was around 27%. DFU caused significant decreases in VA and increases in IRF and SRF on OCT that did not recover following injections resumption despite normalization of CFT.
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Douglas VP, Douglas KAA, Vavvas DG, Miller JW, Miller JB. Short- and Long-Term Visual Outcomes in Patients Receiving Intravitreal Injections: The Impact of the Coronavirus 2019 Disease (COVID-19)-Related Lockdown. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082097. [PMID: 35456189 PMCID: PMC9029849 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the short- and long-term impact of COVID-19—related lockdown on the vision of patients requiring intravitreal injections (IVI) for neovascular Age-related Macular degeneration (nvAMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), or branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods: This is a retrospective study from the Retina department of three Mass Eye and Ear centers. Charts of patients age of ≥ 18 years with any of the abovementioned diagnoses who had a scheduled appointment anytime between 17 March 2020 until 18 May 2020 (lockdown period in Boston, Massachusetts) were reviewed at baseline (up to 12 weeks before the lockdown), at first available follow-up (=actual f/u) during or after the lockdown period, at 3 months, 6 months, and at last available completed appointment of 2020. Results: A total of 1001 patients met the inclusion criteria. Of those patients, 479 (47.9%) completed their intended f/u appointment, while 522 missed it (canceled and “no show”). The delay in care of those who missed it was 59.15 days [standard deviation (SD) ± 49.6]. In these patients, significant loss of vision was noted at actual f/u [Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in LogMAR (Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution)—mean (±SD)—completed: 0.45 (±0.46), missed: 0.53 (±0.55); p = 0.01], which was more prominent in the DR group [Visual acuity (VA) change in LogMAR—mean (±SD); completed: 0.04 (±0.28), missed: 0.18 (±0.44); p = 0.02] and CRVO [completed: −0.06 (±0.27), missed: 0.11 (±0.35); p = <0.001] groups followed by nvAMD [completed: 0.006 (±0.16), missed: 0.06 (±0.27); p = 0.004] and BRVO [completed: −0.02 (±0.1), missed: 0.03 (±0.14); p = 0.02] ones. Overall, a higher percent of people who missed their intended f/u experienced vision loss of more than 15 letters at last f/u compared to those who completed it [missed vs. completed; 13.4% vs. 7.4% in nvAMD (p = 0.72), 7.8% vs. 6.3% in DR (0.84), 15.5% vs. 9.9% in CRVO (p < 0.001) and 9.6% vs. 2% in BRVO (p = 0.48)]. Conclusions: Delay in care of about 8.45 weeks can lead to loss of vision in patients who receive IVI with DR and CRVO patients being more vulnerable in the short-term, whereas in the long-term, CRVO patients followed by the nvAMD patients demonstrating the least vision recovery. BRVO patients were less likely to be affected by the delay in care. Adherence to treatment is key for maintaining and improving visual outcomes in patients who require IVI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - John B. Miller
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(617)-573-3750; Fax: +1-(617)-573-3698
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Tripp A, Brink S, Lemmen KD, Mussinghoff P, Pauleikhoff D. Können digitale Instrumente wie die Makula-App die AMD-Therapie unterstützen? Klin Monbl Augenheilkd 2022; 239:793-798. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1711-4306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund Eine lang andauernde und kontinuierliche Anti-VEGF-Therapie ist bei der neovaskulären altersabhängigen Makuladegeneration (nAMD) der therapeutische „Goldstandard“, um
individuell das bestmögliche Sehvermögen zu erhalten. Das Management der Erkrankung bedeutet für Betroffene und Angehörige eine große Herausforderung. Dabei bleiben Real-Life-Ergebnisse von
Patienten unter der Anti-VEGF-Therapie (IVOM-Therapie) oft hinter denen aus randomisierten klinischen Studien zurück. Das Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es, zu untersuchen, ob digitale
Instrumente, wie die vom AMD-Netz entwickelte Makula-App 1.0, dies unterstützen können.
Patienten und Methoden Die Ergebnisse einer in die Makula-App 1.0 integrierten Nutzerbefragung (n = 110) sowie einer zusätzlichen direkten Befragung zum Thema „Digitales
Terminmanagement in der IVOM-Therapie“ von Augenärzten (n = 54) und Patienten (n = 60) werden bez. Nutzung und Akzeptanz der Makula-App analysiert.
Ergebnisse Die Befragungen ergaben, dass 79% der Nutzer den Informationen der Makula-App 1.0 vertrauen, 71% finden die App sowie das Terminmanagement hilfreich für den Alltag und 80%
der Nutzer würden die App weiterempfehlen. 52% der Augenärzte und 65% der Patienten sehen einen deutlichen Nutzen zukünftiger digitaler Tools für die Patientenadhärenz. Eine digitale
Terminmanagementfunktion bewerten auch 82% der Ärzte als wichtig.
Schlussfolgerungen Dem Einsatz der Makula-App 1.0 besonders beim Terminmanagement, aber auch als Informationstool, standen die Nutzer mehrheitlich positiv gegenüber, ebenso wie
möglichen Weiterentwicklungen. Auch Augenärzte sehen in digitalen Tools wie der Makula-App 1.0 ein wichtiges Instrument zur Verbesserung des Terminmanagements und der Patientenadhärenz.
Diese positiven Einschätzungen unterstützen die Sinnhaftigkeit der Entwicklung einer interaktiven Plattform Makula-App 2.0, die einen direkten Austausch zwischen Patienten und Augenarzt
ermöglichen kann.
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Wolfram C, Schargus M. [The Hamburg register for intravitreal injection therapies (QIVOM)]. Ophthalmologe 2022; 119:280-287. [PMID: 34415380 PMCID: PMC8904345 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-021-01454-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal drug delivery belongs to the most common medical procedures, with approximately 1.5 million treatments per year in Germany. However, for this enormous challenge to provision of proper care, there is a lack of empirical data regarding the treatment process and its clinical and subjective effect. MATERIALS AND METHODS This publication presents the development and structure of the Hamburg register for intravitreal therapies (QIVOM). Patients undergoing intravitreal injection therapy were invited to join the register study. Patients were recruited from the Hamburg eye clinics in Heidberg-Nord and Barmbek as well as from the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE). Both subjective patient-reported information about the perception of their eye disease and its treatment as well as medical parameters were stored in a central electronic database. RESULTS Of the first 162 study patients (aged 41-95 years), 64% suffered from wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), 22% had a retinal vein occlusion, and 11% a diabetic macula edema. Disease severity and subjective impairment were heterogenous. Among these patients, 31.8% had a visual acuity above 10/20 on the treated eye compared to 79.1% on the other eye. The reduced ability to read was the most relevant limitation for more than one third of patients. However, 62% were able to drive a vehicle. An improvement of vision through intravitreal therapy was experienced by 45%. CONCLUSION Collection of patient-reported as well as treatment-related data comprises the advantage of the newly created register. This extension of the data basis should deliver new findings in the future and contribute to quality assurance in intravitreal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Wolfram
- Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Martinistraße 52, 20246, Hamburg, Deutschland.
| | - Marc Schargus
- Asklepios Augenklinik Nord-Heidberg, Hamburg, Deutschland
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, Düsseldorf, Deutschland
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Kodjikian L, Bandello F, de Smet M, Dot C, Zarranz-Ventura J, Loewenstein A, Sudhalkar A, Bilgic A, Cunha-Vaz J, Dirven W, Behar-Cohen F, Mathis T. Fluocinolone acetonide implant in diabetic macular edema: International experts' panel consensus guidelines and treatment algorithm. Eur J Ophthalmol 2022; 32:1890-1899. [PMID: 35139688 DOI: 10.1177/11206721221080288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Center-involving diabetic macular edema (DME) is a leading cause of vision impairment in working-age adults. While its management is particularly challenging in a poorly compliant population, continuous innovation and the advent of new molecules have improved its outcome. The control of glycemia and of systemic aggravating factors remain essential to slow down progression of disease complications including DME. The indications for macular laser photocoagulation has progressively been phased out as a standard of care and replaced by local intraocular anti-VEGFs biologics and glucocorticoids (GCs). Intravitreal GCs in controlled-release drug delivery systems have allowed to reduce injection frequency and treatment burden. The non biodegradable Fluocinolone Acetonide (FAc) implant allows a long-lasting stabilization of both functional and anatomic improvements. However, adequate patient selection and monitoring through regular follow-up are essential for optimal results. Based on their experience and the latest literature, the aim of the present review is to provide international expert panel consensus on the place of the FAc implant in the treatment algorithm of DME, as well as its safety profile and how to manage it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Kodjikian
- Department of Ophthalmology, 386696Croix-Rousse University Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, University Lyon 1, Lyon, France.,UMR-CNRS 5510 Matéis, University Lyon 1, Villeurbane, France
| | - Francesco Bandello
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University Milan, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Marc de Smet
- Department of Ophthalmology, 4496University of Leiden, Leiden, the Netherlands.,MicroInvasive Ocular Surgery Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Corrine Dot
- Department of Ophthalmology, Desgenettes Military Hospital, Lyon, France.,French Military Health Service Academy, Val de Grâce, Paris, France
| | - Javier Zarranz-Ventura
- Institut Clínic d'Oftalmologia (ICOF), 16493Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Investigacions Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anat Loewenstein
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.,The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | - Alper Bilgic
- Sudhalkar Eye Hospital and Retina Centre, Baroda, India
| | - José Cunha-Vaz
- Faculty of Medicine, AIBILI - Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Werner Dirven
- Department of Ophthalmology, AZ Turnhout Hospital, Turnhout, Belgium
| | - Francine Behar-Cohen
- Department of Ophthalmology, 26935Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, AP-HP, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Sorbonne Université, Université de Paris, Inserm, From physiopathology of retinal diseases to clinical advances, Paris, France
| | - Thibaud Mathis
- Department of Ophthalmology, 386696Croix-Rousse University Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, University Lyon 1, Lyon, France.,UMR-CNRS 5510 Matéis, University Lyon 1, Villeurbane, France
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TITLE: THREE-YEAR TREATMENT OUTCOMES OF AFLIBERCEPT VERSUS RANIBIZUMAB FOR DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA: DATA FROM THE FIGHT RETINAL BLINDNESS! REGISTRY. Retina 2022; 42:1085-1094. [PMID: 35174799 PMCID: PMC9112957 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Compare the three-year outcomes of ranibizumab versus aflibercept in eyes with DME in daily practice. METHODS This was a retrospective analysis of naive DME eyes starting intravitreal injections of ranibizumab (0.5mg) or aflibercept (2mg) from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2017 that were collected in the Fight Retinal Blindness! registry. RESULTS We identified 534 eyes (ranibizumab - 267, aflibercept - 267) of 402 patients. The adjusted mean (95% CI) VA change of +1.3 (-0.1, 4.2) letters in the ranibizumab group and +2.4 (-0.2, 5.1) letters (P = 0.001) in the aflibercept group at 3 years was not clinically different. However, the adjusted mean CST change appeared to remain significantly different throughout the three-year period with higher reductions in favor of aflibercept (-87.8 [-108.3, -67.4] µm for ranibizumab vs. -114.4 [-134.4, -94.3] for aflibercept; P < 0.01). When baseline visual impairment was moderate (VA ≤68 ETDRS letters), we found a faster improvement in VA in eyes treated with aflibercept up until 18 months of treatment than eyes treated with ranibizumab, which then stayed similar until 36 months of treatment, while there was no apparent difference when baseline visual impairment was mild (VA ≥69 ETDRS letters). The rate of serious adverse events was low. CONCLUSIONS Aflibercept and ranibizumab were both effective and safe for DME over 3 years.
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Lai TT, Chen TC, Yang CH, Yang CM, Ho TC, Hsieh YT. Treat-and-Extend vs. Pro Re Nata Regimen of Ranibizumab for Diabetic Macular Edema—A Two-Year Matched Comparative Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:781421. [PMID: 35145975 PMCID: PMC8821911 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.781421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare 2-year treatment outcomes of ranibizumab using treat-and-extend (T&E) or pro re nata (PRN) regimens for diabetic macular edema (DME) in clinical settings. Methods We retrospectively enrolled 34 patients (34 eyes) with DME treated with ranibizumab using the T&E regimen, and 34 patients (34 eyes) treated with ranibizumab using the PRN regimen and matched to cases in the treat-and-extend group by baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT). BCVA and CFT changes, number of injections and recurrence of macular edema over 2 years were compared between the groups. Results The average BCVA gain in the T&E and PRN groups was 16.2 and 7.6 ETDRS letters at 2 years (p = 0.011), respectively. The mean CFT reduction was 145.5 ± 127.3 and 97.3 ± 152.5 μm in the T&E and PRN groups at 2 years (p = 0.035), respectively. The T&E group had a higher proportion of patients with BCVA gain ≥ 15 letters at months 18 (p = 0.015) and 24 (p = 0.029) than the PRN group. During the 2-year treatment periods, the T&E group received more injections than the PRN group (11.0 ± 3.2 vs. 6.2 ± 2.0; p < 0.001), while the PRN group had more recurrence of macular edema than the T&E group (71 vs. 41%; p = 0.015). Conclusions After 2-year ranibizumab treatment for DME, better visual and anatomical improvement and less recurrence of macular edema were achieved in the T&E group, with more injections administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tso-Ting Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ta-Ching Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Hao Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chung-May Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tzyy-Chang Ho
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ting Hsieh
- Department of Ophthalmology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Yi-Ting Hsieh
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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic's first wave on the care and treatment situation of intravitreal injections in a German metropolitan region. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2022; 260:1877-1886. [PMID: 35006330 PMCID: PMC8743739 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to evaluate the impact of the first coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) wave in 2020 on patients scheduled for intravitreal injections (IVI) in a German metropolitan region. Methods We performed a multicentre prospective survey and retrospective analysis of the records of patients treated with intravitreal injections during the 20-week period from March to July 2020 in all four hospital eye departments in the city of Hamburg using a questionnaire (on treatment adherence, SarsCoV2-related personal, familial and social data) and treatment data. Results A total of 1038 patients (2472 IVI, 1231 eyes) and 818 questionnaires were evaluated. Longer duration of therapy, lower visual acuity (VA) of the treated and higher VA of the fellow untreated eye was were associated with a higher probability of visit cancellation. Every additional year of life posed a 2.6% lower risk of noncompliance. A COVID-19 infection in the family environment displayed a 5.5-fold chance of visit cancellation. Patients treated for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) had a 36% reduced risk of visit cancellation compared to patients with diabetic macular oedema (DME). Conclusion A long preceding treatment period, low VA of the treated eye, high VA of the untreated eye, COVID-19 in the family and DME were identified as risk factors for IVI visit cancellations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compliance to treatment might be improved in the future by taking these risk factors into account when scheduling patients for IVI during the exceptional circumstances of a pandemic. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00417-021-05521-5.
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Sobolewska B, Sabsabi M, Ziemssen F. Importance of Treatment Duration: Unmasking Barriers and Discovering the Reasons for Undertreatment of Anti-VEGF Agents in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Clin Ophthalmol 2021; 15:4317-4326. [PMID: 34737546 PMCID: PMC8558036 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s325763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Since non-adherence (NA) to intravitreal therapy with VEGF drugs is one of the most important modifiable factors compromising treatment outcome of nAMD, the purpose of this study was to investigate the contributing factors and barriers during long-term nAMD treatment. Methods Barriers and potential reasons for NA were prospectively measured using the Adherence Barriers Questionnaire Intravitreal Therapy (ABQ-IVT). A random sample of patients receiving intravitreal therapy was drawn based on data for different treatment periods. Three age-sex matched groups included the treatment periods of ≤30 months (group 1), between >30 months and ≤60 months (group 2), and >60 months (group 3). The occurrence of gaps between treatments and/or OCT visits was evaluated. Results NA with gaps of >56 days after the scheduled appointment was detected in 39%, 89%, and 100% of patients in group 1, 2, and 3, respectively (groups 1 and 2 vs group 3, p < 0.001). Two or more of such gaps were observed in 6%, 72%, and 94% of patients in group 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The overall ABQ-IVT score showed corresponding differences between the groups: 25.89 ± 7.68 (group 1, 95% CI 22.07–29.71), 34.72 ± 10.32 (group 2, 95% CI: 29.59–38.86), and 33.28 ± 9.04 (group 3, 95% CI 28.78–37.77). Accordingly, the score was inversely correlated with the number of regular follow-up visits in groups 2 and 3 (Pearson correlation coefficient r = −0.65 (p = 0.003) and r = −0.5 (p = 0.034), respectively). Within the groups of longer treatment duration, univariate logistic regression analysis showed higher odds of time commitment and challenge accompanying person to be relevant barriers. Conclusion NA is an arising problem with increasing duration of intravitreal therapy. Treatment barriers, detected by the ABQ-IVT, might change or increase during the course of the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianka Sobolewska
- Center for Ophthalmology, Eberhard- Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Muhammed Sabsabi
- Center for Ophthalmology, Eberhard- Karls University, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Focke Ziemssen
- University Eye Hospital, Center for Ophthalmology, University of Tübingen, Tuebingen, Germany.,Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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Ratra D, Roy K, Giridhar S, Madaan S. Comparison Between Ranibizumab Biosimilar, Innovator Ranibizumab and Bevacizumab in a Real-World Situation. Ophthalmol Ther 2021; 11:135-149. [PMID: 34738211 PMCID: PMC8770791 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-021-00416-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction To analyze the efficacy of biosimilar ranibizumab compared to innovator ranibizumab and bevacizumab. Methods We retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients treated with biosimilar ranibizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and macular edema (ME) (due to diabetes and vein occlusion) and compared them with ranibizumab- and bevacizumab-treated patients. Results Of 202 patients, 67 (33.2%) received biosimilar ranibizumab (BSR), 69 (34.2%) ranibizumab (RBZ) and 66 (32.7%) bevacizumab (BEV). All patients received three consecutive injections followed by pro re nata dosing. The follow-up ranged from 3 to 24 months. The mean numbers of injections were 6.68 for RBZ, 6.4 for BEV and 4.7 for BSR. At 3 months, nAMD (n = 115, 56.9%) and ME (n = 87, 43.1%) groups showed significant improvement in vision and central foveal thickness (CFT) across all three agents. After ≥ 6 months, the effects were maintained in the AMD group but not in the ME group. Maximum effect was seen at 1 month. At no point in time was a significant difference noted among the three anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. No major safety concerns were noted. Conclusions Biosimilar ranibizumab is comparable to innovator ranibizumab and bevacizumab in efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhanashree Ratra
- Department of Vitreoretinal Diseases, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 41/18, College Road, Chennai, 600006, India.
| | - Krishnakanta Roy
- Department of Vitreoretinal Diseases, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 41/18, College Road, Chennai, 600006, India
| | - Sneha Giridhar
- Department of Vitreoretinal Diseases, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 41/18, College Road, Chennai, 600006, India
| | - Sushant Madaan
- Department of Vitreoretinal Diseases, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 41/18, College Road, Chennai, 600006, India
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Neves P, Ornelas M, Matias I, Rodrigues J, Santos M, Dutra-Medeiros M, Martins D. Dexamethasone intravitreal implant (Ozurdex) in diabetic macular edema: real-world data versus clinical trials outcomes. Int J Ophthalmol 2021; 14:1571-1580. [PMID: 34667735 DOI: 10.18240/ijo.2021.10.15] [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: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM To investigate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal dexamethasone implants (Ozurdex®/DEX) in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) either naïve or non-naïve to anti-VEGF therapies who switched to DEX implant independent of response to anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGFs). METHODS This was an audit retrospective review of medical records of patients with DME who switched to the DEX intravitreal implant. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients naïve to antiangiogenic therapy and patients who were previously treated with anti-VEGFs. Data regarding demographics, changes in mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) was collected over 6mo. The demographic data mean changes in BCVA, CMT, and IOP were compared. Six-month follow-up data of 47 patients (57 eyes), who either switched to DEX implant irrespective of response to previous treatments or were treatment naïve before receiving DEX implant, was collected. RESULTS Improvement in mean BCVA was observed from 1-4mo after injection with a decreased effect at month 6 as expected, with better outcomes in naïve compared to non-naïve patients. A statistically relevant decrease in mean CMT was observed during the follow-up period. An increase in mean IOP was observed in the first 2mo after DEX therapy. The mean number of injections of the overall population during the 6mo was 1.3. A subgroup analysis showed no relevant difference between phakic versus pseudophakic patients relative to measured outcomes. There was no cataract progression during the follow-up period and no adverse events reported. CONCLUSION This real-life setting study shows that intravitreal DEX implant is effective and safe. The timings of greater therapeutic impact are concordant with previous studies and suggest that earlier treatment with corticosteroids may have an additional benefit in naïve patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Neves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal 2910-549, Portugal
| | - Mário Ornelas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal 2910-549, Portugal
| | - Inês Matias
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Setúbal 2910-549, Portugal
| | - João Rodrigues
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures 2674-514, Portugal
| | - Margarida Santos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital da Luz Setúbal, Setúbal 2900-722, Portugal
| | - Marco Dutra-Medeiros
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Central, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisbon 1990-237, Portugal
| | - David Martins
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital da Luz Setúbal, Setúbal 2900-722, Portugal
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Khanani AM, Patel SS, Gonzalez VH, Moon SJ, Jaffe GJ, Wells JA, Kozma P, Dugel PU, Maturi RK. Phase 1 Study of THR-687, a Novel, Highly Potent Integrin Antagonist for the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2021; 1:100040. [PMID: 36247818 PMCID: PMC9562295 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2021.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of THR-687 in patients with center-involved diabetic macular edema (DME). Design Phase 1, open-label, multicenter, 3 + 3 dose-escalation study with 3-month follow-up. Participants Patients 18 years of age or older with visual impairment resulting from DME. Methods Single intravitreal injection of THR-687 (0.4 mg, 1.0 mg, or 2.5 mg). Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome measure was the incidence of dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). The secondary outcome measure was the incidence of adverse events (AEs), including the occurrence of laboratory abnormalities. Exploratory outcome measures included changes from baseline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central subfield thickness (CST), assessments of ischemia and leakage on fluorescein angiography, and THR-687 levels in plasma. Results Twelve patients were treated: 3 patients received 0.4 mg of THR-687, 3 patients received 1.0 mg of THR-687, and 6 patients received 2.5 mg of THR-687. Most patients were men (9/12 patients). Their mean age was 57.8 years. No DLTs or serious AEs were reported at any of the dose levels tested. Overall, 9 AEs in the study eye were reported for 5 of 12 patients. Of those, 4 AEs in 3 of 12 patients were deemed treatment related by the investigator, all of which were mild, started on the day of the injection, and had resolved within 28 days without treatment. Overall, mean gains from baseline in BCVA were observed at all study visits with a rapid onset (7.2 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] letters at day 7) and a durability up to the end of the study (8.3 ETDRS letters at month 3). A mean decrease in CST was observed up to month 1. Overall, the mean BCVA gains and CST decreases were highest at the highest THR-687 dose level tested. THR-687 was undetectable in plasma at 7 days after the injection. Conclusions At all dose levels tested, a single intravitreal injection of THR-687 was safe and well tolerated. Preliminary efficacy was observed by a rapid gain in BCVA with 3 months’ durability and a decrease in CST up to 1 month after the injection.
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Claessens D, Ichhpujani P, Singh RB. MacuFix® versus Amsler grid for metamorphopsia categorization for macular diseases. Int Ophthalmol 2021; 42:229-238. [PMID: 34420124 PMCID: PMC8380298 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-02017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Macular diseases often lead to metamorphopsia, which is traditionally tested using the Amsler grid. This study evaluates a novel method for assessing metamorphopsia, based on the software AMD-A Metamorphopsia Detector, application MacuFix®. Methods In this observational study, the usability of a new smartphone-based testing method to assess metamorphopsia was evaluated in 45 patients experiencing metamorphopsia in at least one eye using the questionnaire “System Usability Score (SUS).” Additionally, the diagnostic adherence of self-monitoring with the Amsler grid was compared to self-monitoring with the novel software MacuFix®. Results The average score of the SUS questionnaire in this study was 76.7 ± 15.5, corresponding to the “good” score on the grading scale. The average interval between two home administered tests was significantly shorter (6 days) when the application was used as compared to using the Amsler grid (19 days). The odds ratio of the frequency of patients using the application to the patients using the home test was 4.
Conclusion MacuFix® application can help in effective home monitoring of macular function as high user satisfaction and increased testing frequency was observed in its use in patients with macular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Claessens
- Augenheilkunde Lindenthal, Dürener Str. 251, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Parul Ichhpujani
- Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College & Hospital, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rohan Bir Singh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts and Ear and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Lommatzsch A, Eter N, Ehlken C, Lanzl I, Kaymak H, Schuster AK, Ziemssen F. [Adherence to anti-VEGF treatment-Considerations and practical recommendations]. Ophthalmologe 2021; 118:801-809. [PMID: 33270147 PMCID: PMC8342348 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-020-01273-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have identified a lack of treatment adherence as an important factor that often conflicts with the necessary number of anti-VEGF injections and therefore a better functional result. OBJECTIVE This article discusses approaches and possible measures to reduce the risk of late and infrequent intravitreal injections leading to the major issue of undertreatment. MATERIAL AND METHOD In the course of an expert dialogue, relevant parameters of treatment adherence and variables were identified. Meaningful processes were structured and assigned to organizational areas. RESULTS The compilation of meaningful measures enables practitioners to optimize their own implementation in different areas. Regular monitoring measures can identify the extent of treatment interruption and discontinuation. For specific indicators (treatments per time interval, longest pause interval, minimum coverage per unit time, delay) an effect on the development of visual function was demonstrated. Organizational measures, training of teams and referring physicians, redundant and iterative information transfer to patients have been proven in the experience of experts. The firm integration of these processes into the structures is facilitated by working with checklists. CONCLUSION An optimization of the processes is possible to improve the adherence and the functional results; however, interventional studies showing how adherence and persistence can be increased in the German treatment setting are still lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole Eter
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Münster, Deutschland
| | - Christoph Ehlken
- Klinik für Ophthalmologie, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Kiel, Deutschland
| | - Ines Lanzl
- Chiemsee Augen Tagesklinik, Prien, Deutschland
| | - Hakan Kaymak
- Makula-Netzhaut-Zentrum, Düsseldorf-Oberkassel, Deutschland
| | | | - Focke Ziemssen
- Department für Augenheilkunde Tübingen, Universitäts-Augenklinik, Elfriede-Aulhorn-Str. 7, 72076, Tübingen, Deutschland.
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Figueira J, Henriques J, Carneiro Â, Marques-Neves C, Flores R, Castro-Sousa JP, Meireles A, Gomes N, Nascimento J, Amaro M, Silva R. Guidelines for the Management of Center-Involving Diabetic Macular Edema: Treatment Options and Patient Monitorization. Clin Ophthalmol 2021; 15:3221-3230. [PMID: 34354341 PMCID: PMC8331083 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s318026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the main cause of visual impairment associated with diabetic retinopathy (DR) and macular laser, during approximately three decades, and was the single treatment option. More recently, intravitreous injections of anti-angiogenics and corticosteroids modified the treatment paradigm associated with significant vision improvements. Nevertheless, not all patients respond satisfactorily to anti-VEGF or corticosteroid injections, so an adequate treatment choice and a prompt switch in therapeutic class is recommended. Several algorithms and guidelines have been proposed for treating center involving DME to improve patients’ vision and quality of life. However, in Portugal, such guidelines are lacking. The present review aimed to provide guidelines for the treatment options and patient monitorization in the management of center-involving DME. We recommend anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as first-line therapy after a clinical evaluation accompanied by a rigorous metabolic control. Depending on the response obtained after 3–6 monthly intravitreal injections we suggest switching outside the class in case of a non-responder, maintaining the anti-VEGF-therapy in responders to anti-angiogenics. The treatment regimen for Dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DEXii) should be pro-re-nata with bi-monthly or quarterly monitoring visits (with a scheduled visit at 6–8 weeks after DEXii for intraocular pressure control). If a patient does not respond to DEXii, switch again to anti-VEGF therapy, combine therapies, or re-evaluate patients diagnose. There is a resilient need to understand the disease, its treatments, regimens available, and convenience for all involved to propose an adequate algorithm for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and DME in an individualized regimen. Further understanding of the contributing factors to the development and progression of DR should bring new drug discoveries for more effective and better-tolerated treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Figueira
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra (FMUC), Coimbra, Portugal.,AIBILI - Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - José Henriques
- Retina Department, Retinal Surgical Unit, Dr. Gama Pinto Ophthalmology Institute, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ângela Carneiro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Surgery and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine of University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos Marques-Neves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Norte, EPE - Hospital de Santa Maria, Lisbon, Portugal.,Department of Ophthalmology, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.,ALM Oftalmolaser, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rita Flores
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Central EPE, Lisbon, Portugal.,CEDOC, Chronic Diseases Research Center, NOVA Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Paulo Castro-Sousa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Leiria, Portugal.,CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.,Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Angelina Meireles
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Gomes
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital de Braga, Braga, Portugal
| | - João Nascimento
- Instituto de Retina e Diabetes Oculares de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Miguel Amaro
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital Vila Franca de Xira, Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal
| | - Rufino Silva
- Ophthalmology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), Coimbra, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra (FMUC), Coimbra, Portugal.,AIBILI - Association for Innovation and Biomedical Research on Light and Image, Coimbra, Portugal.,Coimbra Medical Space, Coimbra, Portugal
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Salabati M, Mahmoudzadeh R, Wong JC, Patel D, Patel SN, Obeid A, Sivalingam A, Vander JF, Garg SJ, Ho AC, Regillo CD, Hsu J. Outcomes of eyes with retinal vein occlusion that are lost to follow-up after antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy. Br J Ophthalmol 2021; 106:1742-1747. [PMID: 34183325 DOI: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2021-319180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS To evaluate the outcomes of eyes with macular oedema due to retinal vein occlusion (RVO) that are lost to follow-up (LTFU) after antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections. METHOD A retrospective, single-centre, consecutive case series of RVO patients receiving injections who were LTFU >6 months was conducted. Data were collected from the visit before LTFU; return visit; 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after return; and the final visit. RESULTS Ninety eyes of 83 patients were included. Fifty (55.5%) eyes had branch RVO and 40 (44.5%) had central RVO. Mean LTFU duration was 277.8 days with additional mean follow-up for 748.1 days after return. Mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution visual acuity (VA) (Snellen) at the visit before LTFU was 0.72 (20/105) which worsened on return [1.04 (20/219), p<0.001) and remained worse at all timepoints after return: 0.92 (20/166) at 3 months (p<0.001), 0.97 (20/187) at 6 months (p<0.001), 0.94 (20/174) at 12 months (p<0.001) and 1.01 (20/205) at final visit (p<0.001). Mean central foveal thickness (CFT) increased from 252 µm at the visit before LTFU to 396 µm at the return visit (p<0.001). No difference in CFT was noted by 3 months (258 µm, p=0.71), 6 months (241 µm, p=0.54) or 12 months after return (250 µm, p=0.95). CFT was thinner at the final visit (215 µm, p=0.018). CONCLUSION RVO patients receiving anti-VEGF injections who were LTFU experienced a decline in VA that did not return to the levels seen before LTFU despite improvement in CFT after restarting therapy, underscoring the importance of ongoing treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirataollah Salabati
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Raziyeh Mahmoudzadeh
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jae-Chiang Wong
- Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | - Dillan Patel
- Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samir N Patel
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anthony Obeid
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Arunan Sivalingam
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - James F Vander
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sunir J Garg
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Allen C Ho
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Carl D Regillo
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jason Hsu
- The Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Mid Atlantic Retina, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Kaymak H, Graff B, Schaeffel F, Langenbucher A, Seitz B, Schwahn H. A retrospective analysis of the therapeutic effects of 0.01% atropine on axial length growth in children in a real-life clinical setting. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 259:3083-3092. [PMID: 34142186 PMCID: PMC8478763 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-021-05254-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several randomized controlled studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of 0.01% atropine eye drops on myopia progression in children. However, treatment effects may be different in a routine clinical setting. We performed a retrospective analysis of our clinical data from children to investigate the effect of 0.01% atropine eye drops on myopia progression in a routine clinical setting. METHODS Atropine-treated children were asked to instill one drop of 0.01% atropine in each eye every evening at 5 days a week. Myopic children who did not undergo atropine treatment served as controls. Objective refraction and ocular biometry of 80 atropine-treated and 103 untreated children at initial visit and 1 year later were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS Myopic refractions in the treated and untreated children at initial visit ranged from -0.625 to -15.25 D (-4.21 ± 2.90 D) and from -0.125 to -9.375 D (-2.92 ± 1.77 D), respectively. Ages at initial visit ranged from 3.2 to 15.5 years (10.1 ± 2.7 years) in the treated and from 3.4 to 15.5 years (11.2 ± 3.0 years) in untreated children. Two-factor ANOVA for age and atropine effects on axial length growth confirmed that axial length growth rates declined with age (p<0.0001) and revealed a significant inhibitory effect of atropine on axial length growth (p<0.0015). The atropine effect on axial length growth averaged to 0.08 mm (28%) inhibition per year. Effects on refraction were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION The observed atropine effects were not very distinctive: Statistical analysis confirmed that atropine reduced axial length growth, but to an extent of minor clinical relevance. It was also shown that beneficial effects of 0.01% atropine may not be obvious in each single case, which should be communicated with parents and resident ophthalmologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Kaymak
- Internationale Innovative Ophthalmochirurgie GbR c/o Breyer Kaymak and Klabe Augenchirurgie, Duesseldorf, Germany. .,Institute of Experimental Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany.
| | - Birte Graff
- Internationale Innovative Ophthalmochirurgie GbR c/o Breyer Kaymak and Klabe Augenchirurgie, Duesseldorf, Germany.,Institute of Experimental Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Frank Schaeffel
- Section of Neurobiology of the Eye, Ophthalmic Research Institute, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Achim Langenbucher
- Institute of Experimental Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center UKS, Homburg, Germany
| | - Hartmut Schwahn
- Internationale Innovative Ophthalmochirurgie GbR c/o Breyer Kaymak and Klabe Augenchirurgie, Duesseldorf, Germany
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Verolino M, Grassi P, Sosto G, D'Onofrio G, De Simone S, Costagliola C. Lean approach to the management of patients undergoing intravitreal injections during COVID-19 pandemic. Ther Adv Ophthalmol 2021; 13:25158414211018893. [PMID: 34212127 PMCID: PMC8216374 DOI: 10.1177/25158414211018893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To introduce Lean approach principles in the management of patients undergoing intravitreal injections (IVIs) for wet age-related macular degeneration. Methods Retrospective single-centre cohort study. Services location, IVIs scheduling, utilization of staff, data recording methods, ophthalmic examination and surgical procedures were analysed; a new Intravitreal Injection Centre (IVIC) was developed according to Lean principles. Mean number of daily IVIs performed, mean time between registration and discharge, mean turnover time in between patients, percentages of performed IVIs on the monthly scheduled IVIs and of patients rating their experience ⩾8/10 via standardized feedback questionnaires were retrospectively analysed. Results The mean IVIs number per day increased from 20 ± 4.08 to 50 ± 7.07, and the mean time between registration and discharge of a patient decreased from 240 ± 14.14 to 60 ± 8.16 min (p = 0.00057 and p < 0.00001, respectively). Mean turnover time in between patients decreased from 10 ± 1.41 to 8 ± 2 min (p = 0.055). The percentage of monthly IVIs performed on the total of scheduled IVIs increased from 60% to 100%, and the percentage of satisfied patients who rated IVIC ⩾8/10 increased from 45% to 95% (p = 0.0177 and p < 0.00105, respectively). Conclusion The IVIC improved the quality, efficiency, speed of the overall procedures and clinical capacity of the IVI service through a fast one-way route for patients, limiting time wasted and total distance travelled. This model facilitates the creation of a one-stop clinic through the just-in-time management principle and may be relevant to other ophthalmology services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Verolino
- ASL Napoli 3 Sud, Ospedali Riuniti Area Vesuviana, Naples, Italy
| | - Piergiacomo Grassi
- Clinical Fellow in Vitreoretinal Surgery, Department of Vitreoretinal Surgery, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, 162 City Road, London EC1V 2PD, UK
| | - Gennaro Sosto
- ASL Napoli 3 Sud, Ospedali Riuniti Area Vesuviana, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Stefania De Simone
- Institute for Research on Innovation and Services for Development (IRISS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Costagliola
- Full Professor in Ophthalmology, Department of Medicine and Health Science 'V. Tiberio', University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
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von der Burchard C, Moltmann M, Tode J, Ehlken C, Sudkamp H, Theisen-Kunde D, König I, Hüttmann G, Roider J. Self-examination low-cost full-field OCT (SELFF-OCT) for patients with various macular diseases. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2021; 259:1503-1511. [PMID: 33346888 PMCID: PMC8166739 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-020-05035-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The treatment guidelines for many macular diseases rely on frequent monitoring with optical coherence tomography (OCT). However, the burden of frequent disease control leads to low therapy adherence in real life. OCT home monitoring would address this issue but requires an inexpensive and self-operable device. With self-examination low-cost full-field OCT (SELFF-OCT), our group has introduced a novel technology that may fulfill both requirements. In this pilot study, we report the initial experiences with a clinical prototype. METHODS Fifty-one patients with different macular diseases were recruited in a cross-sectional study. The most common diseases were age-related macular degeneration (AMD; 39/51), diabetic macular edema (DME; 6/51), and retinal vein occlusion (RVO; 3/51). Patients received a short training in device usage and then performed multiple self-scans with the SELFF-OCT device. For comparison, scans with a standard clinical spectral domain (SD-)OCT were taken. RESULTS After a brief training, 77% of the patients were able to successfully acquire images that were clinically gradable. No significant influence on success could be found for age (p = 0.08) or BCVA (p = 0.97). Relevant disease biomarkers in the most common retinal diseases could be detected. CONCLUSIONS SELFF-OCT was used successfully for retinal self-examination and in the future could be used for retinal home monitoring. Future improvements in technology are expected to improve success rates and image quality. TRIAL REGISTRATION The Trial was registered in the German Trial Register under the number DRKS00013755 on 14.03.2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus von der Burchard
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kiel, University Medical Center, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Moritz Moltmann
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Peter-Monnik-Weg 4, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Jan Tode
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kiel, University Medical Center, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
- University Eye Hospital, Medical School Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christoph Ehlken
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kiel, University Medical Center, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Helge Sudkamp
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Peter-Monnik-Weg 4, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Dirk Theisen-Kunde
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Peter-Monnik-Weg 4, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Inke König
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Gereon Hüttmann
- Medical Laser Center Lübeck GmbH, Peter-Monnik-Weg 4, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
- Institute of Biomedical Optics, University of Lübeck, Peter-Monnik-Weg 4, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Johann Roider
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kiel, University Medical Center, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 3, 24105, Kiel, Germany
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50
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Yang KB, Liu L, Feng H, Li J, Liu ZL, Liu HN, Zhang H. Outcomes of Eyes Lost to Follow-Up in Patients with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion Who are Receiving Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2021; 17:489-496. [PMID: 34079270 PMCID: PMC8165207 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s303248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the anatomic and functional outcomes in eyes of patients with macular edema (ME) caused by central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) who were lost to follow-up (LTFU) for more than 6 months following treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy and to determine the predictive factors of visual prognosis in these patients. Methods This study was conducted as a retrospective, case series investigation. Patients whose eyes were receiving intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment for CRVO-ME, with the next follow-up visit occurring more than 6 months following treatment were identified. Baseline disease characteristics (at the last visit before being LTFU), cause and duration of treatment interruption, and the resulting disease progression, complications, and outcomes were assessed. Baseline characteristics predictive of visual outcome were also analyzed. Results This study included a total of 17 eyes of 17 patients. The mean duration of being LTFU was 7.8 ± 2.1 months. On the return visit after being LTFU, 7 of 17 eyes (41.2%) developed neovascular complications. Despite treatment, 12 eyes (70.1%) lost ≥3 best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) lines, with 2 eyes (11.8%) developing a final BCVA of hand motion or more severe. At the final visit, the mean logarithm of minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA deteriorated significantly compared to before being LTFU (P < 0.001). The increasing duration of being LTFU is associated with a deterioration of visual acuity prognosis. Conclusion In CRVO-ME patients who are receiving anti-VEGF therapy, unintentional treatment interruptions can cause visually disastrous consequences, including irreversible blindness. Patients who were LTFU for a long period should be strongly warned about their poor visual prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Bo Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.,Department of Public Service, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhe-Li Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - He-Nan Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
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