Retina-Vitreous
2015 , Vol 23 , Num 0
VEGF Antibody Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity
M.D. Associate Professor, Selcuk University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Konya/YURKEY
Retinopathy of premature (ROP) remains a significant cause of morbidity in immature babies which warranted timely scheduled treatment to prevent visual loss. Laser photocoagulation is the only efficacy proven treatment for this disease though various medical treatments has been tried till nowadays. However with demonstration of the major role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the pathogenesis of this disase, injection of VEGF antibodies for treatment came to the era as in many retinal diseases. Regarding the current literature aggressive posterior ROP, type 1 zone 1 and posterior zone 2 ROP especially laser refractory cases and stage 4 ROP are the main indications for application. However application dose and timing are already a matter of debate. There is already no adverse effect reported with half dose application. The majör ocular complications are fibrous membrane traction, persistant avascular retina, late recurrence while there is a unique case report about systemic complications till now though systemic penetration of intravitreal VEGF antibodies has been demonstrated recently. Long term follow-up outcomes are promising in terms of myopia and strabismus. However prolonged avascular peripheral retina, related late recurrences and 80 week follow-up recommended for intravitreal VEGF antibody treatment for ROP are the main issues that should be considered when deciding on the treatment modality.
Keywords :
Retinopathy of premature, treatment, VEGF antibody, ranibizumab, bevacizumab