Effect of triamcinolone acetonide on vascular endothelial growth factor and occludin levels in branch retinal vein occlusion

Cytokine Levels in Experimental Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Treated With Either Bevacizumab or Triamcinolone Acetonide

Purpose

To compare gene expression changes following branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in the pig with and without bevacizumab (BEV) and triamcinolone acetonide (TA).

Methods

Photothrombotic BRVOs were created in both eyes of four groups of nine pigs (2, 6, 10, and 20 days). In each group, six pigs received intravitreal injections of BEV in one eye and TA in the fellow eye, with three pigs serving as untreated BRVO controls. Three untreated pigs served as healthy controls. Expression of mRNA of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), dystrophin (DMD), potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J member 10 protein (Kir4.1, KCNJ10), aquaporin-4 (AQP4), stromal cell-derived factor-1α (CXCL12), interleukin-6 (IL6), interleukin-8 (IL8), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (CCL2), intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1), and heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) were analyzed by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Retinal VEGF protein levels were characterized by immunohistochemistry.

Results

In untreated eyes, BRVO significantly increased expression of GFAP, IL8, CCL2, ICAM1, HSF1, and AQP4. Expression of VEGF, KCNJ10, and CXCL12 was significantly reduced by 6 days post-BRVO, with expression recovering to healthy control levels by day 20. Treatment with BEV or TA significantly increased VEGF, DMD, and IL6 expression compared with untreated BRVO eyes and suppressed BRVO-induced CCL2 and AQP4 upregulation, as well as recovery of KCNJ10 expression, at 10 to 20 days post-BRVO.

Conclusions

Inflammation and cellular osmohomeostasis rather than VEGF suppression appear to play important roles in BRVO-induced retinal neurodegeneration, enhanced in both BEV- and TA-treated retinas.

Translational Relevance

Inner retinal neurodegeneration seen in this acute model of BRVO appears to be mediated by inflammation and alterations in osmohomeostasis rather than VEGF inhibition, which may have implications for more specific treatment modalities in the acute phase of BRVO.

Suprachoroidal triamcinolone versus posterior subtenon triamcinolone either alone or formulated in the management of diabetic macular edema

PURPOSE

This study aims to compare posterior subtenon triamcinolone acetonide injection either formulated or alone versus suprachoroidal triamcinolone in the management of diabetic macular edema.

METHODS

This study is a prospective interventional study that included 75 patients, divided into three groups, each group with 25 patients. Group I received a combination of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) (40 mg) and VISCOAT, which is a combination of sodium chondroitin sulfate (20 mg) and sodium hyaluronate (15 mg). The injection was done in the posterior subtenon space using the NAGATA cannula. Group II received TA (40 mg) in the posterior subtenon space. Group III underwent an injection of 4 mg/100µl of TA in the supra choroidal space.

RESULTS

We found a statistically significant difference between the three studied groups regarding BCVA (P = 0.001) and CMT at six months postoperative (P = 0.001) with the highest median BCVA and lowest median CMT observed in the formulated TA group.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that early treatment of DME by formulated TA is better than TA alone, and suprachoroidal TA in the form of increasing the BCVA and decreasing the CMT without any elevation of IOP. Trial registration number NCT05464953. Date of registration 17/7/2022 (retrospectively registered).

Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy with or Without Initial Steroid Therapy for Macular Edema in Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

Purpose

In branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), administering steroid injections to inhibit expression of inflammatory factors in the first phase of macular edema may reduce recurrence of the edema. The purpose of our study was to investigate the functional and morphological prognosis and frequency of recurrence after injection of an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) with and without initial steroid therapy to treat macular edema with BRVO.

Patients and Methods

Patients with BRVO and macular edema (41 eyes) received intravitreal ranibizumab injection (IRI) alone (IRI group, 21 eyes) or subtenon triamcinolone (STTA) injection and IRI (combination group, 20 eyes). Patients in both groups with recurrent macular edema received further IRI as appropriate. A laser flare meter was used to assess aqueous flare values, and an optical coherence tomography device was used to measure central macular thickness (CMT). Before the first treatment, we obtained samples of aqueous humor and analyzed them by the suspension array method to evaluate VEGF, placental growth factor (PlGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and interferon-inducible 10-kDa protein (IP-10).

Results

The two groups were not significantly different with regard to levels of VEGF, PlGF, PDGF-AA, sICAM-1, MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, or IP-10. Best-corrected visual acuity, CMT, and aqueous flare value (IRI group, baseline 8.69 ± 4.55 photon counts/ms; combination group, baseline 9.21 ± 3.72 photon counts/ms) improved significantly in both groups without significant intergroup differences. Analyses showed no significant intergroup differences in the mean number of IRIs during the 12-month follow-up, but the proportion of patients without recurrence (ie, who received only one IRI) was significantly higher in the combination group than in the IRI group (P = 0.032). Furthermore, the time to initial recurrence was significantly longer in the combination group than in the IRI group (P = 0.003).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that initial STTA injection and IRI may have a synergistic effect in patients with BRVO and macular edema in that they increase the time between anti-VEGF treatments.

Inner Retinal Changes in Acute Experimental BRVO Treated With Bevacizumab or Triamcinolone Acetonide

Purpose

Apoptosis is a key process in neural degeneration associated with retinal vascular diseases. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antagonists, including bevacizumab, are used to treat macular edema in these diseases. As VEGF has a critical role in the preservation of retinal neuronal cells, this study investigates the effects of bevacizumab on neural damage in a pig model of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and compares it with triamcinolone acetonide (TA) which is reported to possess neuroprotective properties.

Methods

Thirty-six pigs had a photothrombotic BRVO in both eyes. Six pigs were injected with bevacizumab in one eye and TA in the fellow eye, then they were sacrificed, the eyes enucleated, and retinas processed at 2, 6, 10, and 20 days, respectively, together with three pigs (six eyes) BRVO only and three normal pigs (six eyes). Neuronal degeneration (apoptosis) and associated inner retinal changes were determined by terminal deoxyynuclotidyl transferase dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL), histology, and immunohistochemistry for macrophages.

Results

TUNEL labeling showed significantly higher apoptosis rates in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) and the inner nuclear layer (INL) in the bevacizumab-treated compared with the TA-treated retinas at 2, 10, and 20 day time points after occlusion (P < 0.05). Pyknotic cells were significantly higher in the GCL in bevacizumab-treated eyes at 6, 10, and 20 days and in the INL at 2 days compared to TA-treated retinas (P < 0.05). Macrophage infiltration was seen at all time points in both untreated and treated retinas with an absence of significance between bevacizumab- and TA-treated retinas (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Neurodegeneration in the BRVO acute phase is exacerbated by current standard treatments for BRVO. These results may have implications for the timing and treatment type.

Translational Relevance

In the acute phase of BRVO, VEGF suppression with bevacizumab and to a lesser extent with triamcinolone exacerbates apoptosis in the inner retinal layers, which has implications for both the timing and choice of treatment.

Suprachoroidal Space Triamcinolone Acetonide: A Review in Uveitic Macular Edema

Triamcinolone acetonide injectable suspension for suprachoroidal use (Xipere^®; SCS triamcinolone acetonide) is a corticosteroid approved in the USA for the treatment of macular edema associated with uveitis. Suprachoroidal injection of SCS triamcinolone acetonide results in preferential distribution into the posterior segment, which may reduce the risk of corticosteroid-related adverse events, such as cataracts and intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. In a multicenter phase III trial in patients with non-infectious uveitic macular edema, SCS triamcinolone acetonide significantly and rapidly improved visual acuity and reduced signs of macular edema compared with sham treatment. SCS triamcinolone acetonide was generally well tolerated, with the most common adverse event being eye pain on the day of the procedure. The risk of corticosteroid-related IOP elevation appeared to be reduced in unrescued patients in the SCS triamcinolone acetonide group compared with patients in the sham control group who received rescue therapy. SCS triamcinolone acetonide is a novel and useful treatment option for uveitic macular edema.

Uveitic macular edema is a major cause of blindness in the developed world. Intravitreal and periocular application of corticosteroids (e.g., triamcinolone acetonide) may be effective for uveitis and macular edema, but these routes are often associated with cataracts and corticosteroid-related intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. Recently, a triamcinolone acetonide suspension for injection into the suprachoroidal space (Xipere^®; SCS triamcinolone acetonide) has been approved for the treatment of uveitic macular edema. The suprachoroidal route preferentially distributes the drug to the back of the eye, resulting in a reduced risk of corticosteroid-related adverse events. In a pivotal clinical trial, SCS triamcinolone acetonide rapidly improved visual acuity and resolved macular edema in patients with non-infectious uveitis. SCS triamcinolone acetonide was generally well tolerated, with the most common ocular adverse event being eye pain on the day of procedure. In unrescued patients in the SCS triamcinolone acetonide group, there appeared to be a reduced risk of corticosteroid-related IOP elevation versus patients who received rescue therapy in the sham control group. SCS triamcinolone acetonide is a novel and useful treatment option for uveitic macular edema.

A Review of Intraocular Biomolecules in Retinal Vein Occlusion: Toward Potential Biomarkers for Companion Diagnostics

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is one of the most common retinal vascular diseases. The pathogenesis of RVO is multifactorial and involves a complex interplay among a variety of vascular and inflammatory mediators. Many cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, and cell adhesion molecules have been reported to be implicated. Treatments for RVO are directed at the management of underlying risk factors and vision-threatening complications, including macula edema (ME) and neovascularization. Intravitreal anti-VEGF agents are currently considered as the first-line treatment for ME secondary to RVO (RVO-ME), but a substantial proportion of patients responded insufficiently to anti-VEGF agents. Since RVO-ME refractory to anti-VEGF agents generally responds to corticosteroids and its visual outcome is negatively correlated to disease duration, prediction of treatment response at baseline in RVO-ME may significantly improve both cost-effectiveness and visual prognosis. Several bioactive molecules in the aqueous humor were found to be associated with disease status in RVO. This review aims to present a comprehensive review of intraocular biomolecules reported in RVO, including VEGF, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, sICAM-1, IL-12, IL-13, sVEGFR-1, sVEGFR-2, PDGF-AA, etc., highlighting their association with disease severity and/or phenotype, and their potential roles in prognostic prediction and treatment selection. Some of these molecules may serve as biomarkers for aqueous humor-based companion diagnostics for the treatment of RVO in the future.

Multimodal In Vivo Imaging of Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Occlusion

Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) is an emerging retinal imaging technique that can provide high spatial resolution and high contrast of chorioretinal vessels. PAM is compatible with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence imaging, allowing for development of a multimodal imaging system that combines these imaging modalities into one. This study presents a non-invasive, label-free in vivo imaging of retinal and choroidal vascular occlusion using multimodal imaging system, including PAM and OCT. Both retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and choroidal vascular occlusion (CVO) were clearly identified selectively using a spectroscopic PAM imaging. RVO and CVO were created in six rabbits using laser photocoagulation. The dynamic changes of retinal vasculature were observed and evaluated using color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, OCT, and PAM. The position of RVO and CVO were imaged with different wavelengths ranging from 532 to 600 nm. The data shows that occluded vessels were clearly distinguished from the surrounding retinal vessels on the PAM images. This advanced imaging system is a promising technique for imaging retinal ischemia in preclinical disease models.

Functional benefits of a chorioretinal anastomosis at 2 years in eyes with a central retinal vein occlusion treated with ranibizumab compared with ranibizumab monotherapy

Objective

To evaluate the functional benefits (best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness, injection loads, central venous pressure (CVP)) of a laser-induced chorioretinal anastomosis (L-CRA) in patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) treated with ranibizumab compared with ranibizumab monotherapy.

Methods and Analysis

This is a post-hoc analysis of the 2-year randomised ranibizumab plus L-CRA for CRVO trial. Twenty-four patients (82.5%) developed a functioning or successful L-CRA; outcome effects were monitored in the monthly as-needed ranibizumab phase from months 7 to 24 and compared with the ranibizumab monotherapy group (n=29).

Results

From months 7 to 24, the mean (95% CI) injection load for the functioning L-CRA group was 2.18 (1.57 to 2.78) compared with 7.07 (6.08 to 8.06) for the control group (p<0.0001). The mean BCVA was averaged across all timepoints between the control and functioning L-CRA groups (average difference=11.46 (3.16 to 19.75) letters, p=0.01). At 2 years, there was an 82.5% reduction in the odds of high CVP (greater or equal to central retinal artery diastolic pressure) for those with a successful L-CRA compared with controls (p<0.0001).

Conclusion

For patients with CRVO, adding L-CRA as a causal-based treatment to conventional therapy reduced CVP and injection loads and offered improved BCVA.

Trial registration number ACTRN12612000004864.

Comparison of intravitreal injection of conbercept and triamcinolone acetonide for macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion

AIM

To compare the safety and efficacy of the intravitreal injection of conbercept (IVC) and triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) for macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

METHODS

A prospective, randomized clinical study. Patients with ME secondary to BRVO were randomly assigned to either IVC group or IVTA group at a ratio of 2:1 and a 12-month follow-up was performed. The efficacy outcome measures included the mean changes and differences in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the central retinal thickness (CRT). The safety profiles and the mean retreatment intervals were also compared.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference of baseline between the two groups (IVC group, n=36; IVTA group, n=17). At 12mo, the BCVA letters improved by 27.31±18.36 in the IVC group, and 13.53±11.37 in the IVTA group (P=0.0004). CRT reduction was 253.33±163.69 and 150.24±134.32 µm, respectively (P=0.0034). The mean BCVA in the IVC group was superior to that of the IVTA group for months 6-12 (P<0.01). The mean CRT at 9 and 12mo were thinner in the IVC group compared to the IVTA group (P<0.01). The mean retreatment interval in the IVC group was longer than that in the IVTA group (97.40±36.27d vs 68.71±36.38d, P=0.0030). One eye in the IVC group and seven eyes in the IVTA group developed elevated intraocular pressure (IOP; P=0.0012). The proportion of eyes with cataract new-onset or progression were 19.44% in the IVC group and 64.71% in the IVTA group (P=0.0012).

CONCLUSION

IVC could maintain or improve BCVA and reduce CRT for a longer time and have longer retreatment interval than IVTA. In addition, patients treated with IVTA are more susceptible to IOP elevation and cataract progression.

Topical Triamcinolone Acetonide-Loaded Liposomes as Primary Therapy for Macular Edema Secondary to Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Pilot Study

Purpose: To explore safety and therapeutic efficacy of a topical ophthalmic triamcinolone acetonide-loaded liposome formulation (TA-LF) as primary therapy in patients with macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). Methods: Twelve eyes of 12 patients with ME secondary to BRVO were exposed to a topical instillation of 1 drop of TA-LF (TA 0.2%) 6 times a day for 12 weeks to evaluate safety and efficacy. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) intraocular pressure (IOP), slit lamp examination, and central foveal thickness (CFT) were analyzed at every visit. In addition, the morphology of TA-LF was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Results: Patients presented a significant improvement of BCVA and CFT without significant IOP modification (P = 0.94). Treated eyes showed BCVA improvement from 40 ± 12.05 to 64.83 ± 15.97 letters and CFT reduction from 682.91 ± 278.60 to 271.58 ± 57.66 μm after 12 weeks of TA-LF therapy (P < 0.001). No adverse events, including IOP rising, were registered. SEM analysis of liposomal formulations showed that liposome (LP) size depends on its concentration. As the concentration of TA increased, the average size of LPs and the number of larger particles increased as well. TEM study displayed that LP formulation efficiently solubilizes TA crystals in nanoparticles and encapsulates them. Conclusion: LPs can function as nanocarriers of TA and they could be used as topical ophthalmic primary therapy instead of intravitreal drugs in patients with ME secondary to BRVO.

Chorioretinal Anastomosis for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Review of Its Development, Technique, Complications, and Role in Management

Treatments for central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) have improved dramatically with the advent of intravitreal agents aimed at blocking the effects of the dominant hypoxia-induced upreglulated cytokine, which is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This cytokine breaks down the capillary endothelial barriers and is a major component of the macular edema in this condition. These treatments although impressive only address some of the sequelae of CRVO and have no effect on the underlying cause which is an obstruction to venous outflow leading to retinal blood flow stagnation and an elevation of the retinal central venous pressure (CVP). The creation of a laser-induced chorioretinal anastomosis (L-CRA) between the obstructed high pressure retinal venous circulation and the unobstructed low pressure choroidal venous circulation is a means addressing the causal pathology. The L-CRA will help lower the elevated CVP, which has been up until now an unaddressed component of the macular edema in this condition.This article reviews the preclinical and clinical development of the L-CRA and the results of the studies into its effect on the natural history of CRVO. It now can be used in combination with existing anti-VEGF treatments with the intravitreal agents addressing the component of the CRVO-induced macular edema due to the cytokine dysregulation, and the L-CRA addressing the component due to the elevated CVP and retinal venous stagnation. Improvements in laser technology have led to higher success rates in L-CRA creation and potential complications are now minimized and better controlled. The combination of L-CRA with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents offers the potential of a permanent cure with a significant reduction in the burden of therapy and improved visual outcomes in this condition.

Two-Year Efficacy of Ranibizumab Plus Laser-Induced Chorioretinal Anastomosis vs Ranibizumab Monotherapy for Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Adding a laser-induced chorioretinal anastomosis (L-CRA) to current treatments for central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) may improve outcomes and lessen therapy burdens.

Objective

To determine the 2-year efficacy of intravitreal ranibizumab with an L-CRA vs ranibizumab alone for patients with macular edema caused by CRVO.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this randomized clinical trial conducted at a single university clinic from March 2012 to June 2015, 58 participants with macular edema caused by CRVO were randomized 1:1 to either an L-CRA or sham procedure at baseline. All participants received monthly intravitreal injections of ranibizumab, 0.5 mg. Data were analyzed from April 2017 to September 2017.

Interventions

Random assignment to L-CRA plus monthly injections of intravitreal ranibizumab, 0.5 mg, (combination group; n = 29) or to a sham L-CRA procedure plus monthly injections of intravitreal ranibizumab, 0.5 mg, (ranibizumab alone group; n = 29) for 6 months. From month 7 to month 24, participants were evaluated monthly and received an injection of ranibizumab if a loss of 5 or more letters of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) on ETDRS chart from previous highest score occurred or if there was evidence of residual macular edema on optical coherence tomography.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Mean number of injections from month 7 to month 24, change in BCVA, and change in central subfield thickness (CST).

Results

Of the 58 included participants, 38 (66%) were men, and the mean (SD) age was 68.6 (11.8) years; participants had a mean (SD) BCVA of 57.09 (11.87) ETDRS letters (Snellen equivalent, 20/73) and a mean (SD) CST of 738.36 (175.54) μm. A successful L-CRA was created in 24 of 29 participants (83%) in the combination group. The mean number of injections from month 7 to month 24 was 3.2 (95% CI, 2.5-3.8) in the combination group and 7.1 (95% CI, 6.0-8.0) in the ranibizumab alone group. The ratio of the number of injections in the combination group compared with the ranibizumab alone group was 0.46 (95% CI, 0.36-0.61; P < .001). Mixed-effects regression modeling showed a difference in mean BCVA at 2 years between the combination and ranibizumab alone groups (combination, 70.3 letters [Snellen equivalent, 20/40]; ranibizumab alone, 61.6 letters [Snellen equivalent, 20/60]; difference, 8.8 letters; 95% CI, 0.2-17.3; P = .05). There was also a difference in CST at 2 years between the combination and ranibizumab alone groups (mean CST: combination, 303.6 μm; ranibizumab alone, 394.5 μm; difference, 90.9 μm; 95% CI, 24.3-157.5; P = .01). Four participants (14%) in the combination group required a vitrectomy for early macular traction or vitreous hemorrhage.

Conclusions and Relevance

For macular edema caused by CRVO, an L-CRA significantly reduced the number of ranibizumab injections required.

Trial Registration

anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12612000004864.

Comparison between intravitreal bevacizumab and posterior sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide in macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion

Aim

To compare the efficacy and safety between posterior sub-tenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) and intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (Avastin) (IVIA) in the treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion.

Patients and methods

A total of 45 eyes were retrospectively enrolled (23 eyes with intravitreal bevacizumab and 22 eyes with posterior sub-tenon triamcinolone acetonide). Main endpoints included logMAR of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) before and after treatment at 6 months.

Results

The mean logMAR improved from 0.78 to 0.56 at 6 months for intravitreal bevacizumab (p=0.001), and from 0.91 to 0.79 and 0.87 at 3 and 6 months (p=0.038 and 0.13), respectively, for sub-tenon triamcinolone acetonide. At 6 months, the BCVA was significantly better in the bevacizumab group (p=0.02). Both groups' mean CMT significantly improved, from 478 µm at baseline to 295 µm at 6 months in IVIA group (p<0.001) and from 419 µm at baseline to 350 µm in PSTA group (p=0.012); however, this was not different between the groups at 6 months (p=0.065). Recurrence of macular edema was not different between the groups either (p=0.08). Poorer final vision was associated with poorer baseline BCVA and diagnosis of central retinal vein occlusion after adjustment for age and sex (p<0.001 and 0.012, respectively). Significant elevation of IOP was noted at 3 months in the PSTA group, but declined at 6 months compared with baseline (p=0.002 and 0.41, respectively).

Conclusion

Intravitreal bevacizumab seemed to achieve better visual acuity compared with posterior sub-tenon injections of triamcinolone acetonide at 6 months, while CMT was comparable. PSTA still resulted in transient IOP elevation.

In Vivo Imaging of Retinal Hypoxia Using HYPOX-4-Dependent Fluorescence in a Mouse Model of Laser-Induced Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)

Purpose

To demonstrate the utility of a novel in vivo molecular imaging probe, HYPOX-4, to detect and image retinal hypoxia in real time, in a mouse model of retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

Methods

Retinal vein occlusion was achieved in adult mice by photodynamic retinal vein thrombosis (PRVT). One or two major retinal vein(s) was/were occluded in close proximity to the optic nerve head (ONH). In vivo imaging of retinal hypoxia was performed using, HYPOX-4, an imaging probe developed by our laboratory. Pimonidazole-adduct immunostaining was performed and used as a standard ex vivo method for the detection of retinal hypoxia in this mouse RVO model. The retinal vasculature was imaged using fluorescein angiography (FA) and isolectin B4 staining. Retinal thickness was assessed by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) analysis.

Results

By application of the standard ex vivo pimonidazole-adduct immunostaining technique, retinal hypoxia was observed within 2 hours post-PRVT. The observed hypoxic retinal areas depended on whether one or two retinal vein(s) was/were occluded. Similar areas of hypoxia were imaged in vivo using HYPOX-4. Using OCT, retinal edema was observed immediately post-PRVT induction, resolving 8 days later. Nominal preretinal neovascularization was observed at 10 to 14 days post-RVO.

Conclusions

HYPOX-4 is an efficient probe capable of imaging retinal hypoxia in vivo, in RVO mice. Future studies will focus on its use in correlating retinal hypoxia to the onset and progression of ischemic vasculopathies.

CHOROIDAL THICKNESS CHANGES AFTER INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT INJECTION FOR THE TREATMENT OF MACULAR EDEMA DUE TO RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION

PURPOSE

To investigate changes in choroidal thickness after intravitreal injection of a dexamethasone implant for macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion.

METHODS

Thirty-one eyes of 31 patients, treated with a single dose of a dexamethasone implant for retinal vein occlusion-associated macular edema, were included. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and central macular thickness of the affected eyes were compared with those of the normal contralateral eyes at baseline and 1, 3, and 5 months after injection.

RESULTS

The mean SFCT of the affected eyes (296.3 μm ± 61.6 μm) was significantly higher than that of the contralateral eyes (251.2 μm ± 57.7 μm; P < 0.001) at baseline. After injection, the mean SFCT was decreased compared with baseline in the treated eyes at months 1, 3, and 5. There was a correlation between SFCT and central macular thickness in the affected eyes at baseline (r = 0.397, P = 0.027). The change in SFCT was not correlated with the change in central macular thickness after injection. In the contralateral eyes, the mean SFCT did not change significantly.

CONCLUSION

Subfoveal choroidal thickness in eyes with macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion was higher than that of the contralateral eyes. Intravitreal injection of a dexamethasone implant was associated with a reduction in the choroidal thickness of the treated eye.

New Developments in the Classification, Pathogenesis, Risk Factors, Natural History, and Treatment of Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

For years, branch retinal vein occlusion is still a controversial disease in many aspects. An increasing amount of data is available regarding classification, pathogenesis, risk factors, natural history, and therapy of branch retinal vein occlusion. Some of the conclusions may even change our impression of branch retinal vein occlusion. It will be beneficial for our doctors to get a deeper understanding of this disease and improve the treatment skills. The aims of this review is to collect the information above and report new ideas especially from the past a few years.

Combination therapy of intravitreal bevacizumab with single simultaneous posterior subtenon triamcinolone acetonide for macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion

PurposeTo evaluate efficacy and safety of combination therapy of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) with single simultaneous posterior subtenon triamcinolone acetonide (STA) for treatment of macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).MethodsThis was a prospective, randomized, interventional comparative study conducted in 45 eyes with ME secondary to BRVO who were treated primarily with IVB 1.25 mg (23 eyes, IVB group) or combination therapy of IVB 1.25 mg with a single simultaneous STA 40 mg (18 eyes, IVB/STA group). Reinjections were performed with IVB if optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed recurrent ME associated with decreased visual acuity. The main outcome measurement was the number of additional IVB injections, and changes of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) during a 6-month follow-up period were compared.ResultsBCVA showed significant improvement in two groups at 6 months. In addition, CMT showed significant decrease in two groups at 6 months. No significant differences in the change of BCVA and CMT at 6 months after injection (P=0.973, P=0.639) were observed between the two groups. A statistically significant difference was found regarding the number of additional IVB injections (IVB group 0.96±0.83; IVB/STA group 0.44±0.70, P=0.034).ConclusionAlthough combination therapy of IVB with a single simultaneous STA for treatment of ME secondary to BRVO did not affect the visual outcomes compared with IVB monotherapy, it had a benefit of reducing the number of additional IVB injections.

Comparison of intravitreal bevacizumab with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for treatment of cystoid macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion: a Meta-analysis

AIM

To compare the effects of intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) on the treatment of cystoid macular edema (CME) secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted using PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and the Chinese Biomedical Database. The comparison was divided into two groups, group 1 conducted comparison in branch RVO (BRVO) or central RVO (CRVO), group 2 conducted comparison in ischemic-RVO or nonischemic-RVO. Pooled mean differences (MDs) for changes in visual acuity (VA), central macular thickness (CMT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were calculated in groups at 4, 12 and 24wk after treatment respectively.

RESULTS

Eight studies comparing the efficacy of IVB with IVTA were included in the Meta-analysis. In group 1, in BRVO, significant difference was shown on the comparison of CMT at 24wk (MD, -45.66; 95% CI, -76.03 to -15.28; P=0.003), IVB was effective on BRVO for at least 24wk; no significant differences were found in the comparison of VA at each time points (P>0.05 respectively). In CRVO, no significant differences were found in the comparison of VA or CMT between IVB and IVTA at each time points (P>0.05, respectively). In group 2, in ischemic-RVO, significant differences were shown in the comparison of VA (MD, -0.28; 95% CI, -0.42 to -0.14; P<0.0001) and CMT (MD, -86.50; 95% CI, -151.18 to -22.43; P=0.008) at 24wk; In nonischemic-RVO, no significant differences were demonstrated in the comparison of VA or CMT between IVB and IVTA at each time points (P>0.05, respectively). The occurrence of high IOP was much lower in IVB group.

CONCLUSION

This Meta-analysis suggested that IVB was effective in decreasing CMT in BRVO for at least 24wk, IVB is more effective on improving VA and reducing CMT in ischemic-RVO. IVB is more promising on RVO than IVTA.

The effectiveness and reliability of posterior sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide injection in branch retinal vein occlusion-related macular edema

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness and reliability of posterior sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) application in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)-related macular edema.

METHODS

Patients with confirmed BRVO-related macular edema were enrolled in the study. Patients were injected with a single, therapeutic dose of 40 mg PSTA. Detailed ophthalmic examination was performed at baseline and at 1, 3 and 6 months after the treatment. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), cataractogenic change (CC) and macular optical coherence tomography (OCT) analysis results were evaluated. The results were compared statistically.

RESULTS

Forty-one eyes of 41 patients with a mean age of 63.49 ± 10.99 (55-86) years, 15 (36.6%) females, were included in the study. BCVA in LogMAR values at 1 and 3 months were significantly better than at baseline, while no significant difference from baseline was observed in sixth month values (p < 0.001, p < 0.001 and p = 0.846, respectively). Central macular thickness values obtained using OCT were significantly lower at the first, third and sixth months compared to baseline (p < 0.001 for all). IOP elevation was determined in only two eyes (4.8%) at the end of the study period, and no CC was detected in any case.

CONCLUSION

PSTA application is an effective and safe option in BRVO-related macular edema.

[Retinal vein occlusion: Therapy of retinal vein occlusion]

Treatment of retinal vein occlusion can be systemic or local. Therapeutic strategies include improved blood supply, treatment of the vision-reducing macular edema by intravitreal injection of inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) or corticosteroids and laser photocoagulation for neovascular complications. As long as head-to-head studies comparing steroids and VEGF inhibitors have not been published, none of the available intravitreally injected substances can be given priority. Well-known side effects of intravitreal steroids are cataract formation and ocular hypertension whereas VEGF inhibitors need to be frequently injected. Although therapy for retinal vein occlusion is protracted, initial long-term data indicate that treatment can be terminated in at least half of the patients . Finally, a treatment recommendation according to the current state of data is presented.

Proteins involved in focal adhesion signaling pathways are differentially regulated in experimental branch retinal vein occlusion

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) is a common retinal vascular disease, but global protein changes following the condition remain largely unelucidated. To bring new insights into pathological processes and identify potential therapeutic targets, large-scale retinal protein changes following BRVO were studied by combining a porcine model of experimental BRVO with proteomic analysis by label-free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Among a total set of 1974 proteins, 52 significantly upregulated proteins and 10 significantly downregulated proteins were identified in retinas with BRVO after 15 days. Significantly upregulated proteins were involved in signaling pathways of focal adhesion via integrin and blood coagulation. Proteins involved in focal adhesion signaling included collagen α-2 chain, laminin subunit β-2, laminin subunit γ-1, lipocalin-7, nidogen-2, osteopontin, integrin-β, α-actinin-1, isoform 2 of α-actinin-1, talin-2 and filamin C. The identified proteins indicate that BRVO was associated with extracellular matrix remodeling processes. The present study identified focal adhesion signaling and ECM remodeling as important biological mechanisms to evaluate in the search for signaling pathways that promote neovascularisation and macular edema following BRVO.

Comparative efficacy and safety of approved treatments for macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion: a network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare the efficacy and safety of approved treatments for macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

DESIGN

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the efficacy and safety of approved treatments for macular oedema secondary to BRVO were identified from an updated systematic review.

SETTING

A Bayesian network meta-analysis of RCTs of treatments for macular oedema secondary to BRVO.

INTERVENTIONS

Ranibizumab 0.5 mg pro re nata, aflibercept 2 mg monthly (2q4), dexamethasone 0.7 mg implant, laser photocoagulation, ranibizumab+laser, or sham intervention. Bevacizumab and triamcinolone were excluded.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Efficacy outcomes were mean change in best corrected visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study scale) and the percentage of patients gaining ≥ 15 letters. Safety outcome was the percentage of patients with increased intraocular pressure (IOP)/ocular hypertension (OH).

RESULTS

8 RCTs were identified for inclusion with 1743 adult patients. The probability of being the most efficacious treatment at month 6 or 12 based on letters gained was 54% for ranibizumab monotherapy, 30% for aflibercept, 16% for ranibizumab plus laser (adjunctive or prompt), and 0% for dexamethasone implant, laser or sham. The probability of being the most efficacious treatment for patients gaining ≥ 15 letters was 39% for aflibercept, 35% for ranibizumab monotherapy, 24% for ranibizumab plus laser, 2% for dexamethasone implant, and less than 1% for laser or sham. There was no statistical difference between ranibizumab monotherapy and aflibercept for letters gained (+1.4 letters for ranibizumab vs aflibercept with 95% credible interval (CrI) of -5.2 to +8.5 letters) or the OR for gaining ≥ 15 letters: 1.06 (95% CrI 0.16 to 8.94)). Dexamethasone implant was associated with significantly higher IOP/OH than antivascular endothelial growth factor agents (OR 13.1 (95% CrI 1.7 to 116.9)).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no statistically significant difference between ranibizumab and aflibercept.

Dye-Free Porcine Model of Experimental Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Suitable Approach for Retinal Proteomics

Branch retinal vein occlusion induces complex biological processes in the retina that are generated by a multitude of interacting proteins. These proteins and their posttranslational modifications can effectively be studied using modern proteomic techniques. However, no method for studying large-scale protein changes following branch retinal vein occlusion has been available until now. Obtainment of retinal tissue exposed to branch retinal vein occlusion is only available through experimental animal models. Traditional models of experimental branch retinal vein occlusion require the use of Rose Bengal dye combined with argon laser photocoagulation. The use of Rose Bengal dye is problematic in proteomic studies as the dye can induce multiple protein modifications when irradiated. This paper presents a novel technique for proteomic analysis of porcine retinal tissue with branch retinal vein occlusion combining a dye-free experimental model with label-free liquid chromatography mass spectrometry based proteomics.

Strategy for the management of diabetic macular edema: the European vitreo-retinal society macular edema study

Objective. To compare the efficacy of different therapies in the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME). Design. Nonrandomized, multicenter clinical study. Participants. 86 retina specialists from 29 countries provided clinical information on 2,603 patients with macular edema including 870 patients with DME. Methods. Reported data included the type and number of treatment(s) performed, the pre- and posttreatment visual acuities, and other clinical findings. The results were analyzed by the French INSEE (National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies). Main Outcome Measures. Mean change of visual acuity and mean number of treatments performed. Results. The change in visual acuity over time in response to each treatment was plotted in second order polynomial regression trend lines. Intravitreal triamcinolone monotherapy resulted in some improvement in vision. Treatment with threshold or subthreshold grid laser also resulted in minimal vision gain. Anti-VEGF therapy resulted in more significant visual improvement. Treatment with pars plana vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling alone resulted in an improvement in vision greater than that observed with anti-VEGF injection alone. In our DME study, treatment with vitrectomy and ILM peeling alone resulted in the better visual improvement compared to other therapies.

The role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of macular edema secondary to retinal vascular diseases

Macular edema (ME) is a nonspecific sign of numerous retinal vascular diseases. This paper is an updated overview about the role of inflammatory processes in the genesis of both diabetic macular edema (DME) and ME secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). We focus on the inflammatory mediators implicated, the effect of the different intravitreal therapies, the recruitment of leukocytes mediated by adhesion molecules, and the role of retinal Müller glial (RMG) cells.

Diameters and wall-to-lumen ratio of retinal arterioles in patients with retinal vein occlusion before and after treatment with dexamethasone intravitreal implants

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the diameters and wall-to-lumen ratio (WLR) of retinal arterioles in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) before and after a 0.7 mg dexamethasone (DEX) intravitreal implant and compare it with a matched control group of normal eyes.

METHODS

This was a single-site, multi-investigator, prospective, open-label, observational study in 15 patients with vision loss due to branch or central RVO treated with a single injection of DEX implant. An age-matched control group of 16 normal eyes was recruited. External and internal arteriolar diameters, WLR, and wall thickness were assessed in vivo using scanning-laser Doppler flowmetry. Visual acuity (VA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean internal diameter showed a significant reduction in post-treatment RVO patients compared with pre-treatment RVO patients (56.0±18.0 μm vs. 67.9±16.9 μm, respectively; P=0.02). Mean WLR in pre-treatment RVO patients was 0.47±0.19, showing an increase to 0.63±0.23 3 months after treatment (P=0.037). No significant difference was found in arteriolar external diameter between normotensive, pre-treatment, and post-treatment subjects.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with a DEX implant in RVO patients led to significant improvements in both VA and CMT. These changes were accompanied by reductions in arteriolar lumen diameter, which could contribute to decreased capillary leakage and macular swelling.

Efficacy and safety of widely used treatments for macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion: a systematic review

Background

Macular oedema secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO) can cause vision loss due to blockage of the central retinal vein (CRVO) or a branch retinal vein (BRVO). This systematic review assessed the efficacies of widely used treatments for macular oedema secondary to RVO and the feasibility of conducting indirect comparisons between these therapies.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken in November 2010, including a literature search for trials in medical databases and relevant websites. Abstracts, conference presentations and unpublished studies were considered. Studies were data-extracted and quality assessed by two independent researchers. Outcome measures included the mean change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline in the study eye and/or number of patients gaining at least 10 letters from baseline to 6 months or the nearest equivalent time point.

Results

Fourteen unique randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified. Ranibizumab 0.5 mg produced greater improvements in BCVA at 6 months than sham in BRVO (mean difference 11.0 letters, 95% confidence interval [CI] 7.83, 14.17) and CRVO (mean difference 14.10 letters, 95% CI 10.51, 17.69) in two double-blind sham-controlled RCTs. Pooled data from two double-blind, sham-controlled RCTs showed that improvements in BCVA were also significantly better for dexamethasone intravitreal (IVT) implant 0.7 mg compared with sham in patients with BRVO or CRVO (mean difference 2.5 letters, 95% CI 0.7, 4.3); the difference was significant for BRVO alone, but not CRVO alone. A significantly greater proportion of patients with BRVO gained ≥15 letters with laser therapy vs. no treatment at 36 months in a large prospective RCT (odds ratio 3.16, 95% CI 1.25, 8.00), whereas no difference was observed at 9 months in a smaller study. Three studies reported no benefit for laser therapy in CRVO. No indirect comparisons with ranibizumab were feasible due to differences in study design and baseline characteristics.

Conclusions

Data from RCTs for ranibizumab and dexamethasone IVT demonstrate that both new agents constitute significant improvements over the previously widely accepted standard of care (laser therapy) for the treatment of BRVO and CRVO. However, head-to-head studies are needed to assess the relative efficacies of licensed therapies for RVO.

Aqueous flare and inflammatory factors in macular edema with central retinal vein occlusion: a case series

Background

The association of inflammatory factors and the aqueous flare value with macular edema in central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) patients remains unclear. We investigated the relations between the aqueous flare value and vitreous levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in patients with CRVO and macular edema or patients with idiopathic macular hole (MH).

Methods

In 38 patients who underwent unilateral vitrectomy (21 CRVO patients and 17 MH patients), vitreous samples were obtained during vitrectomy to measure VEGF, sICAM-1, and IL-6. Retinal ischemia was evaluated from capillary non-perfusion on fluorescein angiography, and the CRVO patients were classified into nonischemic or ischemic groups. Aqueous flare values were measured with a laser flare meter and macular edema was examined by optical coherence tomography.

Results

The median aqueous flare value increased significantly across the three groups (MH group < nonischemic CRVO group < ischemic CRVO group). There was a significant correlation between the flare value and vitreous levels of VEGF, sICAM-1, and IL-6 in the CRVO group. The flare value was also significantly correlated with the severity of macular edema in the CRVO group.

Conclusions

Inflammation and/or ischemia may increase vascular permeability and disrupt the blood-aqueous barrier by increasing levels of inflammatory factors in patients with CRVO and macular edema.

Treatment of Macular Edema Associated with Retinal vein Occlusion Using Sustained-release Dexamethasone Implants in a Clinical Setting

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical effect, safety, and administration procedure of slow-release dexamethasone implants (Ozurdex®) for macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion in clinical praxis.

Methods

Data from 11 patients (4 eyes with central vein occlusion and 7 eyes with branch vein occlusion) were reviewed. Data were compiled and analyzed with respect to best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and adverse events. Follow-up was 10 months. Changes in BCVA ≥ logMAR 0.2, IOP ≥5 mm Hg, and CMT ≥100 μm were considered clinically relevant.

Results

Two months after the first dexamethasone implant, BCVA improved from logMAR 0.65 ± 0.2 to logMAR 0.34 ± 0.1. All patients demonstrated a decrease in CMT from an initial average value of 632 ± 178 μm to 229 ± 34 μm. However, in 10 out of 11 eyes, macular edema recurred by month 4 through 5 and a second dexamethasone implant was administered. Two and 4 months after the second implant, BCVA was logMAR 0.36 ± 0.2 and logMAR 0.40 ± 0.2 and the CMT was 254 ± 61 μm and 357 ± 81 μm, respectively. The IOP increased 5.1 ± 1.5 mm Hg 1 month after the first implant compared to baseline. In eyes with an IOP above 25 mm Hg (4 out of 11), pressure-lowering eyedrops were administered.

Conclusions

Administration of dexamethasone implants induced a clinically relevant increase in visual acuity and a decrease in central macular thickness. In 91% of patients, macular edema recurred within 5 months and a second implant was administered. Adverse events, primarily increased IOP, were manageable. The injection procedure was relatively simple and uncomplicated.

Molecular basis of the inner blood-retinal barrier and its breakdown in diabetic macular edema and other pathological conditions

Breakdown of the inner endothelial blood-retinal barrier (BRB), as occurs in diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusions, uveitis and other chronic retinal diseases, results in vasogenic edema and neural tissue damage, causing loss of vision. The central mechanism of altered BRB function is a change in the permeability characteristics of retinal endothelial cells caused by elevated levels of growth factors, cytokines, advanced glycation end products, inflammation, hyperglycemia and loss of pericytes. Subsequently, paracellular but also transcellular transport across the retinal vascular wall increases via opening of endothelial intercellular junctions and qualitative and quantitative changes in endothelial caveolar transcellular transport, respectively. Functional changes in pericytes and astrocytes, as well as structural changes in the composition of the endothelial glycocalyx and the basal lamina around BRB endothelium further facilitate BRB leakage. As Starling's rules apply, active transcellular transport of plasma proteins by the BRB endothelial cells causing increased interstitial osmotic pressure is probably the main factor in the formation of macular edema. The understanding of the complex cellular and molecular processes involved in BRB leakage has grown rapidly in recent years. Although appropriate animal models for human conditions like diabetic macular edema are lacking, these insights have provided tools for rational design of drugs aimed at restoring the BRB as well as for design of effective transport of drugs across the BRB, to treat the chronic retinal diseases such as diabetic macular edema that affect the quality-of-life of millions of patients.

Intravitreal triamcinolone versus intravitreal bevacizumab in the treatment of exudative retinal detachment secondary to posterior uveal melanoma

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prompt intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection (4 mg/0.1 mL) vs intravitreal bevacizumab injection (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) compared with observation in the management of extensive exudative retinal detachment secondary to posterior uveal melanoma.

DESIGN

Retrospective, nonrandomized, interventional case series.

METHODS

setting: Institutional. patients: Ninety-six patients affected by posterior uveal melanoma with large exudative retinal detachment (>10 mm in largest basal diameter) were included. intervention: Patients received intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (32 eyes) or intravitreal bevacizumab (32 eyes) at plaque removal. Thirty-two patients served as controls (observation group). All groups were matched for age, sex, initial tumor thickness and largest basal diameter, largest exudative retinal detachment basal diameter, tumor location, and Bruch membrane rupture. Patients underwent monthly follow-up examinations in the first 6 months and every 3 months thereafter. Follow-up was longer than 24 months. main outcome measure: Exudative retinal detachment resolution (B-scan ultrasonography), steroid-induced cataract, steroid-induced increased IOP.

RESULTS

Follow-up was 37 ± 7 months. Marked exudative retinal detachment regression was documented in 22 (69%) intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide-treated vs 11 (34%) intravitreal bevacizumab-treated and 9 (28%) untreated eyes (P = .0007 and P = .0001, respectively). No statistical significance was found between intravitreal bevacizumab group vs observation group (P = .45) Steroid-induced cataract was observed in 4 intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide-treated patients (12%). Neither steroid-induced increased IOP nor other short- or long-term side effects were documented.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection induces earlier and marked exudative retinal detachment resolution after brachytherapy of posterior uveal melanoma. Risk and benefit should be balanced vs steroid-induced cataract.

Foveal sensitivity and morphology in major and macular branch retinal vein occlusion

Purpose:

To determine whether foveal thickness, foveal volume, visual acuity, and foveal sensitivity after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) are influenced by the extent of occlusion (major versus macular branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO)).

Materials and Methodology:

In this interventional case series, 22 eyes of 22 BRVO patients with macular oedema were treated by IVTA. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the site of occlusion, with the Major group having occlusion of a major retinal vein and the Macular group having occlusion of a macular venule. Foveal sensitivity was measured by microperimetry before IVTA and 3 and 6 months after IVTA. Visual acuity was converted to logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) values. Foveal thickness and macular volume were measured by optical coherence tomography before IVTA and 3 and 6 months after IVTA.

Results:

Foveal thickness and foveal volume showed significant improvement from before to 3 and 6 months after IVTA in both groups (all P<0.001). Visual acuity also showed significant improvement from before to 3 and 6 months after IVTA in both groups (P=0.001 and P=0.022, respectively). Moreover, foveal sensitivity was significantly improved from before to 3 and 6 months after IVTA in the Major group (P<0.001). Foveal sensitivity also increased from before to 3 and 6 months after IVTA in the Macular group, but not significantly. There were no significant differences in the trend profiles of foveal thickness, foveal volume, visual acuity, and foveal sensitivity between the Major and Macular groups.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that IVTA may be effective for improving foveal morphology, visual acuity, and foveal sensitivity in BRVO patients regardless of the site of occlusion.

Macular sensitivity and morphology after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide for macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion

It has been reported that microperimetry is effective for evaluating macular function. The aim of this paper is to report and discuss changes seen in macular sensitivity and macular thickness after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) in two patients with macular edema and central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Two eyes from two patients with CRVO (one each with ischemic and nonischemic CRVO) received IVTA for macular edema. Microperimetry was performed to measure macular sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields, while the macular thickness within these fields was measured by optical coherence tomography. The mean macular thickness and macular sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields improved after IVTA in the patient with nonischemic CRVO. In contrast, the mean macular thickness and sensitivity within the central 4, 10, and 20 degree fields showed little change after IVTA in the patient with ischemic CRVO. IVTA improves macular sensitivity and morphology in nonischemic CRVO, so further evaluation of this treatment is justified.

Comparison of the efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for cystoid macular edema with versus without serous retinal detachment in branch retinal vein occlusion: influence on macular sensitivity and morphology

BACKGROUND

The influence of serous retinal detachment (SRD) on visual acuity, macular sensitivity, and macular thickness is unclear after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) for macular edema with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

METHODS

Twenty-one eyes of 21 BRVO patients with macular edema received IVTA. Patients were divided into two groups by optical coherence tomography findings: 11 patients who had cystoid macular edema (CME) with SRD (SRD (+) group) and 10 patients who had CME without SRD (SRD (-) group). Microperimetry was performed with a Micro Perimeter 1 before and at 3 and 6 months after IVTA. Macular thickness was measured by optical coherence tomography. We exchanged the superior and inferior regions to separate the regions into those with and without occlusion. As a result, the superior region was always the occluded region and the inferior region was non-occluded.

RESULTS

In both the SRD (-) group and the SRD (+) group, the mean macular thickness within the central 4° field and the 10° and 20° fields of the occluded region decreased significantly from baseline to 3 and 6 months after IVTA (all P <0.01). Visual acuity also improved significantly in both groups from baseline to 3 and 6 months after IVTA (both P <0.05). In both groups, the mean macular sensitivity (measured with by microperimetry) within the central 4° field and the 10° and 20° fields of the occluded region showed a significant increase from baseline to 3 and 6 months after IVTA (all P <0.05). The trend profiles of macular thickness within the 10° and 20° fields of the occluded region showed significant differences, but there were no significant differences with respect to the trend profiles of visual acuity and macular sensitivity within the central 4° field and the 10° and 20° fields of the occluded region.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that IVTA may achieve more marked improvement of macular morphology in BRVO patients with SRD than in those without SRD, while this therapy may have a similar effect on macular function in BRVO patients with or without SRD.

Intraocular corticosteroids for posterior segment disease: 2012 update

INTRODUCTION

Diabetic macular edema (DME), cystoid macular edema (CME), age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vascular occlusion (RVO) and uveitis are responsible for severe visual impairment worldwide. In some patients with these conditions, treatment with intraocular corticosteroids may be beneficial. Although off-label use of these agents has occurred for many years, novel agents including preservative-free and sustained-release intravitreal implants are currently being studied in clinical trials (CTs).

AREAS COVERED

This paper reviews the use of CTs for vitreoretinal (VR) diseases including choroidal neovascularization, CME, DME, RVO and posterior uveitis. It also discusses the use of corticosteroids for treating VR disease, including dexamethasone, fluocinolone acetonide, intravitreal implants and triamcinolone acetonide.

EXPERT OPINION

Used alone, intravitreal corticosteroids may benefit disorders such as DME, RVO and uveitis compared with standard therapy. Cases of exudative AMD non-responsive to standard treatment may benefit from combination therapy, including usage of intravitreal corticosteroid injections. Intraoperative use of these agents may aid visualization of retinal structures. Sustained-release intraocular implants have been approved for posterior uveitis and RVO associated with macular edema. In spite of this, most intraocular corticosteroids have a limited duration of action along with significant side effects, including cataract and glaucoma. Currently, intravitreal corticosteroid usage for DME is considered off-label.

Chemokines in aqueous humour before and after intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide in eyes with macular oedema associated with branch retinal vein occlusion

PURPOSE

To determine the aqueous humour levels of chemokines before and after an intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) in eyes with macular oedema associated with a branch retinal vein occlusion (ME-BRVO).

DESIGN

  Single-centre, prospective, consecutive interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventeen eyes of 17 consecutive patients with ME-BRVO who underwent IVTA were studied. Seven eyes without retinal vascular disease served as control.

INTERVENTION

All patients with ME-BRVO underwent IVTA.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The optical coherence tomographically determined foveal thickness (FT) and the aqueous humour levels of inflammatory chemokines of the C-C subfamily, including eotaxin, monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), β (MIP-1β), and RANTES was determined before the IVTA (baseline) and at 1 week after the IVTA.

RESULTS

At the baseline, only MCP-1 and MIP-1β were detected in the aqueous, and MIP-1β was significantly higher in eyes with a ME-BRVO than in controls (p = 0.004). The level of both of these chemokines was not correlated with the FT (p = 0.654 and p = 0.608, respectively). One week after IVTA, the FT was significantly decreased (p < 0.001), and the levels of MCP-1 and MIP-1β were also significantly reduced (p < 0.001 and p = 0.044, respectively). The decrease in the FT was correlated with the decrease in only MIP-1β (r = 0.58, p = 0.020).

CONCLUSIONS

Alterations of the aqueous level of MIP-1β reflect the improvement of the macular oedema after IVTA in eyes with ME-BRVO. This indicates that the steroid-dependent ME-BRVO was closely related with the level of MIP-1β.