RADIANCE: a randomized controlled study of ranibizumab in patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathologic myopia. Ophthalmology. 2014;121:682-692.e2. [PMID: 24326106 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2013.10.023]

Comparison of visual acuity outcome and choroidal thickness variation of intravitreal ranibizumab injection for myopic choroidal neovascularization with or without dome-shaped macula

BACKGROUND

To investigate the visual acuity outcome and choroid thickness (CT) change after intravitreal ranibizumab in highly myopic eyes with or without dome-shaped macula (DSM) in Chinese patients.

METHODS

This retrospective, observative study included 80 treatment-naive eyes (80 patients), which received ranibizumab according to the 1+PRN protocol. The best corrective visual acuity (BCVA) and CT change were compared between eyes with or without DSM.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between eyes with or without DSM in BCVA and central macular thickness (CMT). The recurrent rate was not different between the two groups during the first year of treatment. The CT was significantly thinner in eyes with DSM than in eyes without DSM before treatment (median 40.00um versus 71.00um), at 1 month after treatment (median 31.00um versus 65.50um), and in the last follow up (median, 32.00um versus 65.00um) (p = 0.0101). Axial length (AL) was longer in eyes with DSM than those without DSM (median, 29.17 mm versus 28.10 mm) before treatment, and in the last follow up (median, 29.44 mm versus 28.20 mm) (p = 0.0055). The CT was significantly correlated with AL (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

No difference was found in visual outcome between eyes with or without DSM. The visual acuity significantly improved at 1 month after ranibizumab injection and it was recovery sooner in extrafoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) group than in subfoveal CNV group. The CT was thinner in eyes with DSM, which was significantly correlated with AL.

Anti-VEGF Treatment for Secondary Neovascularization in Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum - Age of Onset, Treatment Frequency, and Visual Outcome

PURPOSE

To assess the onset, treatment frequency, and visual outcome of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment due to secondary choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study METHODS: One-hundred six eyes of 53 patients with PXE were analyzed. The assessment of CNV activity relied on hemorrhage visible on funduscopy and intra- / subretinal fluid on optical coherence tomography (OCT), individually defining a shortening or extension of treatment interval. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline, age at anti-VEGF therapy initiation, and BCVA-drop events at exudation onset (worsening of BCVA of 2 or more lines) were documented. Further, we assessed the number of injections during the first year and the total number of injections, the time to treatment initiation of the fellow eye, and BCVA over time.

RESULTS

During a median observation period of 77 months (IQR 49; 126) patients received a median number of 28.0 anti-VEGF-injections (IQR 9.8; 43.5). Eight patients received no injection (median age at baseline 38.1 years), 11 patients underwent anti-VEGF treatment in one eye (median age 47.2 years) and 34 patients in both eyes (median age 51.8 years). The median age at the first anti-VEGF treatment was 52.80 years (IQR 47.2-57.6). Applying Cox regression models, the median "survival" time of fellow eye until treatment initiation was 16.8 months. In the group of bilateral treated patients, the median time difference was 9.6 months (IQR 2.1- 32.4, range 0-122) The median number of injections was 5.5 per eye in the first year of treatment (IQR 3-7) and was associated with the total number of injections in the observation period (2.33, CI 1.22-3.44, P < .001). A better BCVA at the last follow-up visit was associated with a better baseline BCVA (P < .001, R2 = 0.318) and with the absence of a BCVA drop at the onset of exudation (P = 0.035, R2 = 0.339).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate that anti-VEGF treatment is required for most PXE patients at a relatively young age. Once treatment in one eye is initiated, the time to fellow eye treatment is relatively short. A BCVA drop before treatment initiation is a risk factor for worse visual outcomes, suggesting that treatment is prudent before exudation affects the central retina. Given the young age of onset and intensive treatment needs, patients with PXE might particularly benefit from longer-acting anti-VEGF therapeutics.

Macular neovascularization

Neovascularization of the macula, a common complication of many chorioretinal diseases such as neovascular age-related macular degeneration, polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, and pathologic myopia results from increased synthesis of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) by the retinal pigment epithelium and/or Müller cells because of localized ischemia and inflammation. The Consensus on Neovascular AMD Nomenclature (CONAN) study group acknowledged that these vessels may originate from either the choriocapillaris or the retinal microvasculature, prompting them to propose the term 'macular neovascularization' (MNV) to include intraretinal, subretinal, and sub-pigment epithelial neovascularization localized to the macula. MNV frequently appears as a grey-green macular lesion with overlying intraretinal thickening and/or subretinal exudation, causing metamorphopsia, reduced central vision, relative central scotoma, decreased reading speed, and problems with color recognition. Multimodal imaging with optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography, dye-based angiographies, fundus autofluorescence, and multiwavelength photography help establish the diagnosis and aid in selecting an appropriate treatment. The standard of care for MNV is usually intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, though thermal laser photocoagulation, verteporfin photodynamic therapy, and vitreoretinal surgery are occasionally used. This current review discusses the etiology and clinical features of MNV, the role of multimodal imaging in establishing the diagnosis, and the available therapeutic options.

One-Year Outcome of Intravitreal Injection of Ranibizumab Biosimilar for Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization in Japanese Patients

Objectives: To evaluate the one-year outcomes of intravitreal ranibizumab biosimilar (RBZ-BS) injections for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) in Japanese patients. Methods: Twenty-one patients (mean age 69.0 years; 4 males, 17 females) with high myopia and mCNV were retrospectively reviewed. Twelve were treatment-naïve, and nine had previous anti-VEGF treatments. Efficacy measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT). Results: The treatment-naïve group showed significant BCVA improvement from 0.55 ± 0.34 at baseline to 0.24 ± 0.28 at 12 months. The previously treated group had no significant BCVA changes. CMT significantly decreased in both groups: from 295.3 ± 105.2 µm to 207.3 ± 63.0 µm in the treatment-naïve group, and from 196.1 ± 62.0 µm to 147.2 ± 50.1 µm in the previously treated group. Dry macula rates were high: 83% at 3 months and 83% at 12 months in the treatment-naïve group, and 67% at 3 months and 89% at 12 months in the previously treated group. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions: These findings indicate that RBZ-BS is an effective and safe treatment for mCNV, particularly in treatment-naïve patients. The use of RBZ-BS offers a cost-effective alternative to original ranibizumab, reducing financial burdens while maintaining high therapeutic efficacy. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these results and evaluate long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness.

Differential diagnosis of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV): insights from multimodal imaging and treatment implications

PURPOSE

The aim of this article is to conduct a comprehensive systematic review about the current understandings and differential diagnosis of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and other several similar diseases, describing their multimodal imaging analysis, prognostic implications, and current types of management.

METHODS

This systematic review was performed based on a search on the PubMed database of relevant papers regarding mCNV and other entities discussed in the paper, according to our current knowledge.

RESULTS

Through the integration of a multimodal imaging approach, especially optical coherence tomography (OCT), along with accurate demographic and clinical assessment, it becomes possible to effectively differentiate mCNV from similar yet heterogeneous entities. These conditions include macular hemorrhage due to new lacquer crack (LC) formation, inflammatory diseases such as punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC)/multifocal choroidits (MFC) and epiphenomenon multiple evanescent white dot syndrome (Epi-MEWDS), neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), idiopathic CNV (ICNV), dome-shaped macula (DSM) with subretinal fluid, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) humps, angioid streaks (AS), choroidal rupture (CR), and choroidal osteoma (CO). Each one of these entities will be described and discussed in this article.

CONCLUSION

Myopic choroidal neovascularization is a common retinal condition, especially among young individuals. Accurate diagnosis and differentiation from similar conditions are crucial for effective treatment. Multimodal imaging, particularly OCT, plays a crucial role in precise assessment. Future research should focus on defining biomarkers and distinguishing features to facilitate prompt treatment.

Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy for the Treatment of Chorioretinal Conditions: A Narrative Review

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin involves intravenous administration of a photosensitizer followed by its laser light activation at the target site to inhibit aberrant choroidal vascularization. This narrative review provides an overview of the role verteporfin PDT plays in the management of chorioretinal conditions. A PubMed literature review of all English-language articles published through October 19, 2023, was conducted to identify relevant references. Verteporfin PDT has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration and is often used in combination with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. Additionally, patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, a subtype of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, also benefit from verteporfin PDT combined with a VEGF inhibitor for improving visual acuity. Verteporfin PDT has also been effective in treating patients with peripapillary CNV, as well as eyes with CNV due to ocular histoplasmosis and pathologic myopia. Reduced dose and/or fluence PDT protocols have been effective in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy while reducing adverse effects. In eyes with choroidal hemangioma, tumor regression and visual outcomes have been improved with verteporfin PDT treatment. Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin continues to play an important role in the management of chorioretinal conditions.

Effect of intraocular pressure reduction on progressive high myopia (PHM study): study protocol of a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

In adult patients with high myopia (HM), progressive axial elongation poses a significant risk for the development of subsequent ocular complications that may lead to visual impairment. Effective strategies to reduce or prevent further axial elongation in highly myopic adult patients have not been available so far. Recent studies suggested that medically lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) may reduce axial elongation.

OBJECTIVE

This clinical randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the efficacy of medical IOP reduction in adult patients with progressive HM (PHM).

TRIAL DESIGN

Single-centre, open-label, prospective RCT.

METHODS

This RCT will recruit 152 participants with PHM at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center (ZOC). Randomised in a ratio of 1:1, participants will receive IOP-lowering eyedrops (intervention group) or will be followed without treatment (control group) for 12 months. Follow-up visits will be conducted at 1, 6 and 12 months after baseline. Only one eye per eligible participant will be included for analysis. The primary outcome is the change in axial length (AL) within the study period of 12 months. Secondary outcomes include the incidence and progression of visual field (VF) defects, changes in optic disc morphology and incidence and progression of myopic maculopathy. Difference in AL changes between the two groups will be analysed using linear regression analysis. For the secondary outcomes, a multifactor Poisson regression within a generalised linear model will be used to estimate the relative risk of progression in VF defects and myopic maculopathy, and the rate of thinning in retinal nerve fibre layer and ganglion cell-inner plexiform will be assessed through Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Full ethics approval for this trial has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of ZOC, Sun Yat-sen University, China (ID: 2023KYPJ110). Results of this trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05850936.

Treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization: a network meta-analysis and review

PURPOSE

This is, to our knowledge, the first network meta-analysis aiming to compare all treatment modalities for myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

METHODS

After the electronic databases were searched, two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, full-texts, and extracted information. Primary endpoints were change in visual outcome and central retinal thickness. We used a network meta-analysis to compare treatment outcomes in the early (≤ 6 months) and late (> 6 months) phase.

RESULTS

We included 34 studies (2,098 eyes) in our network meta-analysis. In the early phase, the use of anti-VEGF led to a gain of 14.1 letters (95% CI, 10.8-17.4) compared to untreated patients (p < 0.0001), 12.1 letters (95% CI, 8.3-15.8) to photodynamic therapy (PDT) (p < 0.0001), 7.5 (95% CI, 1.2-13.8) letters to intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (TCA) (p = 0.019), and - 2.9 letters (95% CI, - 6.0-0.2) to the combination of anti-VEGF and PDT (p = 0.065). In the later phase, these results were largely maintained. There were no significant differences in visual outcomes between patients treated with 1 + PRN and 3 + PRN. However, the 1 + PRN group received 1.8 (SD 1.3), while the 3 + PRN group received 3.2 (SD 0.9) injections within 12 months (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

This network meta-analysis confirms that anti-VEGF is the most effective treatment for myopic CNV using the 1 + PRN treatment strategy.

Improved accuracy of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and optical coherence tomography angiography for monitoring myopic macular neovascularisation activity

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT) combined with OCT angiography (OCTA) for myopic myopic macular neovascularisation (MNV) activity.

METHODS

Both eyes of patients with myopic MNV diagnosed with fluorescein angiography (FA), SD OCT and OCTA were assessed by unmasked investigators. The images were deidentified and randomised before graded by masked investigators, who determined the presence of active myopic MNV by using SD OCT together with OCTA without FA and by FA alone, respectively. The findings of masked investigators were compared with unmasked investigators.

RESULTS

213 eyes of 110 patients comprising 499 imaging episodes were eligible for grading. For diagnosing new-onset myopic MNV without FA, combined use of SD OCT and OCTA had a sensitivity of 0.94, specificity of 0.84 and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.92. FA had a sensitivity of 0.52 (p<0.01), specificity of 0.80 (p=0.38) and AUC of 0.66 (p<0.01). For recurrent myopic MNV, the combination of SD OCT and OCTA had a sensitivity of 0.98, specificity of 0.78 and AUC of 0.88. FA had a sensitivity of 0.50 (p=0.04), specificity of 0.76 (p=0.85) and AUC of 0.63 (p=0.01). Myopic traction maculopathy was more frequently associated with recurrent myopic MNV (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

SD OCT with dense volumetric scan was highly sensitive for diagnosing myopic MNV. The addition of OCTA improved the diagnostic specificity without FA. Monitoring of the longitudinal changes on SD OCT and judicious use of FA is a reliable surveillance strategy for myopic MNV.

Myopic choroidal neovascularization with neovascular signal around perforating scleral vessel prone to recur after anti-VEGF therapy

BACKGROUND

To compare the recurrence of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) based on the neovascular signal of mCNV around the perforating scleral vessel (PSV).

METHODS

A consecutive series of naïve patients with mCNV accepted anti-VEGF therapy with a minimum 12-month follow-up period. The neovascular signal relationship between PSV and mCNV were classified into the presence of neovascular signal of CNV around PSV or not. The recurrence of mCNV, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), hyperreflective foci height, CNV area and CNV flow area were analyzed between two groups.

RESULTS

Neovascular signal of CNV around PSV was detected in 20 eyes (39.2%). The one-year recurrence rate in the group with neovascular signal of CNV around PSV was significantly higher than that in the group without neovascular signal of CNV around PSV (P = 0.045). The recurrence time in the group with neovascular signal around PSV was shorter than that in the group without neovascular signal around PSV (P = 0.030). Cox proportional hazard model showed that the presence of neovascular signal of CNV around PSV [hazard ratio (HR): 2.904] and subfoveal choroidal thickness ≤ 50 μm (HR: 0.368) were risk factors for recurrence of mCNV. In the group with neovascular signal around PSV, the BCVA was worse (P = 0.024) and the CNV flow area was more unstable (P = 0.027) after therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

PSV was commonly detected in patients with mCNV. The presence of neovascular signal of CNV around PSV was prone to recur with a shorter time in mCNV patients.

MACULAR CHORIORETINAL ATROPHY AND VISUAL OUTCOMES IN RANIBIZUMAB- OR AFLIBERCEPT-TREATED MYOPIC CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION

PURPOSE

To investigate the predictors of macular chorioretinal atrophy, consisting of patchy atrophy (PA) at the macula and choroidal neovascularization (CNV)-related macular atrophy (CNV-MA), during treatment with ranibizumab or aflibercept for myopic CNV (mCNV) and its impact on visual outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 82 eyes with treatment-naïve mCNV who were treated with pro re nata injections of ranibizumab or aflibercept.

RESULTS

Nine eyes (11.0%) presented with macular PA at baseline (PA group), and 73 eyes (89.0%) did not (non-PA group). VA improved during the first year in the non-PA group; a similar trend was noted in the PA group until 3 months after initial treatment. This improvement was maintained until 24 months ( P < 0.001) in the non-PA group, but not in the PA group. In the PA group, macular chorioretinal atrophy progressed faster ( P < 0.0001), and CNV-MA was more frequent during the 2 years of treatments ( P = 0.04). Even non-PA group eyes sometimes developed CNV-MA (42% at Month 24) if they had a larger CNV and thinner subfoveal choroidal thickness at baseline, resulting in poorer visual prognosis ( P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Macular PA at baseline was a risk factor for CNV-MA development and was associated with poor visual outcomes.

Three cases of macular retinal detachment exacerbated during follow-up with myopic foveoschisis around myopic choroidal neovascularization

Purpose

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and myopic traction maculopathy are major complications of pathologic myopia, and myopic foveoschisis (MF) is one of several symptoms that can be included under the general term "myopic traction maculopathy"; however, only a few cases will have MF around the myopic CNV. We report three cases with MF around myopic CNV that followed different clinical courses observed using swept-source optical coherence tomography.

Observations

Case 1 was a 69-year-old woman with an axial length of 29.71 mm, myopic CNV, and MF in the left eye. One month after intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR), a macular retinal detachment (RD) expanded. Vitrectomy and gas tamponade were performed during month 2; the macular RD and MF resolved gradually thereafter. Case 2 was a 54-year-old man with an axial length of 30.59 mm, myopic CNV, and MF in the right eye; after IVR, a macular RD developed and gradually expanded until month 4; the RD and MF resolved spontaneously and resolved during month 8. Case 3 was a 66-year-old woman with an axial length of 28.63 mm, myopic CNV, and MF in the left eye. A macular RD expanded 1 month after a previous vitrectomy for MF; after intravitreal injection of aflibercept, the macular RD and MF resolved gradually in month 12. In all cases, the CNV was accompanied by subretinal fluid, and two of the three cases had outer lamellar holes.

Conclusion and Importance

The MF around the myopic CNV may lead to exacerbated MF and RD during follow-up, and the subretinal fluid caused by the CNV might facilitate MF progression. Since this condition is rare, further investigation of this entity is needed to determine appropriate management.

Safety and efficacy of intravitreal injection of conbercept for the treatment of patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathological myopia: Results from the SHINY study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal injections of 0.5 mg conbercept in patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathological myopia (pmCNV).

METHODS

The 177 pmCNV patients were randomly assigned in a 3:1 ratio to receive conbercept or sham injection, respectively. The conbercept group receive conbercept intravitreal injections administered on a pro re nata (PRN) basis after 3 monthly loading doses. The sham group received three consecutive monthly sham injections and then one conbercept injection followed by PRN conbercept intravitreal injections.

RESULTS

At month 3, the mean BCVA for the two groups were improved by 12.0 letters (conbercept group, from 54.05 letters to 66.05 letters) and 0.6 letters (sham group, from 49.77 letters to 50.33 letters), respectively (p < 0.001). The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) at month 3 in the two groups decreased 62.0 μm (conbercept group, from 348.90 μm to 286.18 μm) and 4.4 μm (sham group, from 347.86 μm to 343.47 μm) (p < 0.001). At month 9, the mean BCVA improved by 13.3 letters in the conbercept group and 11.3 letters in the sham group. The mean CRT decreased 73.6 μm in the conbercept group and 55.9 μm in the sham group (p < 0.001). The most common ocular adverse events were associated with intravitreal injections, such as conjunctival haemorrhage and increased intraocular pressure.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal injections of 0.5 mg conbercept provided improvement in visual and anatomical outcomes in pmCNV patients with low rates of ocular and nonocular safety events.

Cost-utility model of new intravitreous units vs. current patient journey model in Spain

AIM

To compare the effectiveness and costs of the implementation of the Intravitreal Therapy Unit Model, endorsed by the SERV, SECA, SEO and SEDISA, compared to the usual procedure.

METHOD

Analytical decision model that compares an UTI-type healthcare organization with 4 usual practice scenarios in Spain, in terms of quality-of-life results due to loss of visual acuity and the use of resources. The probability, cost, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated for each scenario proposed. A univariate sensitivity analysis was performed for each of the parameters used in the model.

RESULT

The model showed that from any of the initial scenarios of the usual practice, transitioning to the UTI-type implementation improves the quality of life of patients and requires lower cost. UTI-type is dominant respect usual practice. The sensitivity analysis showed that the results would not change sign with the variation of any starting variable.

CONCLUSIONS

Shorten suspicion-needle times is key to maintaining functional vision in patients requiring intravitreal treatment. The UTI-type model seeks the efficiency of ophthalmology services and can produce savings that vary between Є175 and Є85 per patient attended per year.

Efficacy and safety of different conbercept injection regimens in the treatment of choroidal neovascularization in pathological myopia: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

To investigate the clinical efficacy of conbercept 1 + pro re nata (PRN) (i.e., reinjection as needed after one injection) and 3 + PRN (reinjection as needed after 3 months of injection) regimens in choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathological myopia (PM-CNV).

METHODS

From 06/2019 to 06/2020, 65 patients (65 eyes) confirmed with PM-CNV were included in this retrospective study. Intravitreal injection of 0.5 mg conbercept was conducted either with the 1 + PRN or 3 + PRN strategy. Patients were followed up for 12 months. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), CNV lesion leakage area, the number of injections, and postoperative adverse reactions were observed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 42.10 ± 4.69 years, and the average diopter was - 11.26 ± 2.97D. The BCVA at month 3 in the 3 + PRN (n = 30) group was lower than in the 1 + PRN (n = 35) group (P < 0.001). The CRT at month 3 in the 3 + PRN group was lower than in the 1 + PRN group (P < 0.001). After 12 months, there were no differences in the BCVA and CRT between the two groups (P > 0.05). The number of injections was less in 1 + PRN than in 3 + PRN (2.14 ± 1.06 vs. 3.37 ± 0.76, P < 0.001) at 12 months. No serious treatment-related ocular complications or serious systemic adverse events were found.

CONCLUSION

The 1 + PRN and 3 + PRN strategies of intravitreal injection of conbercept are effective in treating PM-CNV. The 1 + PRN regimen required fewer injections, and it might be more suitable for the treatment of PM-CNV.

TEN-YEAR VISUAL OUTCOME AND CHANGE IN CHORIORETINAL ATROPHY AFTER INTRAVITREAL RANIBIZUMAB FOR MACULAR NEOVASCULARIZATION IN PATHOLOGIC MYOPIA

PURPOSE

To investigate the 10-year visual outcome and chorioretinal atrophy after a single intravitreal ranibizumab injection followed by a pro re nata regimen for myopic macular neovascularization in pathologic myopia, and to identify the factors associated with 10-year best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

METHODS

This retrospective observational study evaluated 26 consecutive treatment-naïve eyes (26 patients) with myopic macular neovascularization in pathologic myopia who underwent a single intravitreal ranibizumab followed by a pro re nata regimen of intravitreal ranibizumab and/or intravitreal aflibercept injection and observed over 10 years. We assessed changes in BCVA and morphological parameters, including the META-PM Study category as a chorioretinal atrophy index.

RESULTS

The logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution BCVA changed from 0.36 (Snellen, 20/45) ± 0.39 to 0.39 (20/49) ± 0.36 over 10 years of observation. Compared to baseline, 1-year BCVA improved ( P = 0.002), whereas 2 to 10-year BCVA was not significantly different. Total injection frequency was 3.8 ± 2.6. In none of the eyes, 10-year BCVA was 20/200 or less. Ten-year BCVA correlated with baseline BCVA ( P = 0.01, r = 0.47). The META-PM Study category progressed in 60% of eyes. There were no drug-induced complications.

CONCLUSION

Best-corrected visual acuity in eyes with myopic macular neovascularization in pathologic myopia was maintained for 10 years after a single intravitreal ranibizumab followed by a pro re nata regimen without drug-induced complications. The META-PM Study category progressed in 60% of eyes, especially those with older baseline age. Early diagnosis and treatment of myopic macular neovascularization are essential to maintain good long-term BCVA.

Recurrence risk of myopic choroidal neovascularisation: a systematic review of current study

INTRODUCTION

The rising prevalence of myopia is a concern in ophthalmology, with myopic choroidal neovascularisation (m-CNV) significantly affecting vision. However, long-term outcomes of m-CNV management have been unsatisfactory, leading to high recurrence rates. These studies aim to identify risk factors for m-CNV recurrence.

METHODS

Comprehensive review followed a pre-registered plan in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). The search strategy used various databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus and ScienceDirect using the keywords 'Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization', 'Recurrence' and 'Risk'. Eligible studies were identified and analysed based on predetermined criteria. This study was registered on PROSPERO (CRD4202343461).

RESULTS

The systematic review included three retrospective studies investigating risk factors associated with m-CNV recurrence. These factors are: (1) requiring three or more injections for initial disease control, (2) older age, (3) larger myopic macular neovascularisation, (4) juxtafoveal CNV, (5) larger height of hyper-reflective foci (HRF) and (6) destruction or absence of the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).

CONCLUSION

Risk factors for m-CNV recurrence include a greater number of required injections, older age, large macular CNV, juxtafoveal location, increased HRF height and changes in EZ and RPE structure. Understanding these factors can inform personalised treatment approaches and improve patient outcomes by identifying individuals at higher risk of recurrence and implementing proactive measures to mitigate the impact of m-CNV recurrence and progression. Further investigation is needed to enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms and develop innovative therapeutic approaches for effective m-CNV management.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD4202343461.

MORPHOLOGIC CHARACTERISTICS AND PROGRESSION PATTERNS OF MACULAR NEOVASCULARIZATION-RELATED ATROPHY IN EYES WITH PATHOLOGIC MYOPIA

PURPOSE

To investigate the development and progression patterns of macular neovascularization (MNV)-related atrophies in eyes with pathologic myopia.

METHODS

Twenty-seven eyes of 26 patients with MNV followed from its onset to progression to macular atrophy were studied. A longitudinal series of autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography images were examined for the patterns of MNV-related atrophy. Changes in best-corrected visual acuity were determined for each pattern.

RESULTS

The mean age was 67.2 ± 8.7 years. The mean axial length was 29.6 ± 1.5 mm. Three patterns of atrophy were identified: multiple-atrophic pattern, 63% of the eyes had small atrophies occurring at multiple sites around the MNV edge; single-atrophic pattern, 18.5% had atrophies occurring only on one side of the MNV edge; and exudation-related pattern, 18.5% had atrophy occurring within a previous serous exudation or hemorrhagic area and slightly away from the MNV edge. Eyes with atrophies in multiple-atrophic and exudation-related patterns progressed to large macular atrophies involving the central fovea and showed decrease in best-corrected visual acuity during the 3-year follow-up period. Eyes with single-atrophic pattern had a sparing of the fovea and had good recovery of the best-corrected visual acuity.

CONCLUSION

There are three patterns of MNV-related atrophy in eyes with pathologic myopia with different courses of progression.

PREDICTIVE ROLES OF QUANTITATIVE OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY FEATURES IN PROGNOSIS OF MYOPIC CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION

PURPOSE

To explore the predictive roles of the morphologic features of neovascularization in the prognosis of myopic choroidal neovascularization.

METHODS

In this retrospective case series study, quantitative morphologic features of neovascularization were obtained from the optical coherence tomography angiography images. According to the number of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections administered within 1 year, the eyes were classified into a stable group (≤2 injections) or an unstable group (>2 injections). Best-corrected visual acuity was recorded before the treatment and at the 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Overall, 50 eyes with treatment-naive myopic choroidal neovascularization were included; 26 in the stable group and 24 in the unstable group. Multivariate analysis showed that the eyes in the unstable group were associated with a larger lesion area (odds ratio = 2.596, P = 0.012), higher junction density (odds ratio = 1.611, P = 0.014), and higher end point density (odds ratio = 1.435, P = 0.023).The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the multivariate model was 0.865, with 91.7% sensitivity and 65.4% specificity. The final best-corrected visual acuity was significantly correlated with the lesion area (β = 0.152, P = 0.032) after adjusted for age, sex, and baseline best-corrected visual acuity.

CONCLUSION

Lesions with larger areas and higher end point and junction densities tended to have more frequent anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections and worse visual outcomes in eyes with myopic choroidal neovascularization.

Comparison of anatomical and functional outcomes of treating myopic choroidal neovascularization with bevacizumab or ranibizumab

PURPOSE

To compare results of treatment with bevacizumab and ranibizumab injections in myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV).

METHODS

Retrospective, observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

patients with mCNV treated with bevacizumab or ranibizumab injections. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) on optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans were collected at baseline, after 3, 6, 12, 24 months and the last visit.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

mean change in BCVA and CRT.

RESULTS

We included 85 eyes treated with bevacizumab and 125 eyes treated with ranibizumab. There was no difference between the groups regarding BCVA and CRT change. CNV recurrence occurred at the mean time of 66.1 ± 3.7 and 57.3 ± 6.4 months in the bevacizumab- and ranibizumab-treated eyes, respectively (p = 0.006). During the first year 6.9% eyes in the bevacizumab group vs. 27.5% in the ranibizumab group had CNV recurrence (p = 0.001). Risk factors for recurrence of CNV were baseline CNV area (aHR 1.20, 95%CI 1.0-1.32, p = 0.04), subfoveal CNV (aHR 2.13, 95% CI 1.16-3.93, p = 0.01) and ranibizumab treatment (aHR 2.31, 95% CI 1.16-3.93, p = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

Eyes treated with bevacizumab and ranibizumab can achieve similar anatomical and functional improvement. CNV recurrence may occur earlier and more frequently during the first year in eyes treated with ranibizumab.

Clinical outcomes of different regimens of intravitreal Conbercept for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathological myopia

PURPOSE

To assess the clinical outcomes of two intravitreal injection regimens of Conbercept used to treat choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathological myopia (PM-CNV).

METHODS

A total of 72 eyes of 72 patients were treated: 39 eyes received a single injection followed by treatment pro re nata (1 + PRN); 33 eyes first received 3 consecutive monthly injections (3 + PRN) then followed by PRN. After initial injection, patients were followed up for 12 months.

RESULTS

The mean age of 72 patients was 45.3 ± 5.1 years, with the mean diopter of -10.62 ± 3.24D. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.86 ± 0.23 LogMAR with 1 + PRN and 0.90 ± 0.19 LogMAR with 3 + PRN at baseline (P = 0.422), 0.36 ± 0.07 and 0.33 ± 0.05 LogMAR at month 3 (P = 0.026); and 0.33 ± 0.03 and 0.32 ± 0.02 LogMAR at month 12 (P = 0.096). The central retinal thickness (CRT) was 333.5 ± 22.7 μm with 1 + PRN and 341.2 ± 20.9 μm with 3 + PRN at baseline (P = 0.139), 281.53 ± 10.28 and 273.15 ± 13.24 μm at month 3 (P = 0.004); 266.83 ± 8.14 and 264.91 ± 9.27 μm at month 12 (P = 0.350). The number of injections in the 1 + PRN group was significantly lower than that observed in the 3 + PRN group (2.15 ± 1.06 versus 3.36 ± 0.74; P < 0.001). During the follow-up, no serious ocular complications and adverse reactions related to Conbercept and injections occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Both injection regimens resulted in similar visual outcomes in PM-CNV patients. The 1 + PRN regimen had fewer injections and might be more suitable in this patient population.

Evaluation of macular neovascularization activity in pathological myopia: a comparison between optical coherence tomography and OCT-angiography

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to suggest a novel approach to assessing the activity of macular neovascularization (MNV) in pathological myopia (PM) by comparing optical coherence tomography (OCT) with OCT-angiography (OCT-A).

Methods

The Zeiss Cirrus HD-5000 was used to obtain OCT and OCT-A images of PM-MNV. The objective was to examine the characteristics of PM-MNV lesions and investigate the relationship between PM-MNV activity and changes in retinal structure in 54 patients (54 eyes). To analyze the OCT parameters associated with PM-MNV activity and their clinical significance in terms of sensitivity and specificity, we used OCT-A as a reference.

Results

This study included 72 patients (72 eyes), of whom 54 had good image quality and were considered for analysis. The study evaluated various OCT characteristics of MNV lesions, including the elevation of an external limiting membrane (ELM), ellipsoidal zone (EZ), retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) elevation, and EZ/RPE interruption, to identify possible parameters associated with PM-MNV activity. The interobserver consistency was found to be almost perfect. In the evaluation of PM-MNV activity, the sensitivity of ELM elevation, EZ interruption, and RPE interruption was found to be 66.7% (low), 88.4% (high), and 95.6% (high), respectively. However, the specificity was found to be 71.4% (moderate), 71.4% (moderate), and 25.4% (poor), respectively. This indicates that the current evaluation methods are not accurately assessing PM-MNV activity. We developed a new comprehensive method that used EZ interruption as the primary parameter and ELM elevation and RPE interruption as secondary parameters to evaluate PM-MNV activity with a sensitivity of 97.8% and a specificity of 85.4%.

Conclusion

In PM-MNV, a novel comprehensive diagnostic method combining EZ interruption, ELM elevation, and RPE interruption might be a valuable indicator to evaluate PM-MNV activity.

Comparison of antivascular endothelial growth factor treatment for myopia choroidal neovascularisation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy for myopia choroidal neovascularisation (CNV), and to compare the efficacy of two different anti-VEGF retreatment criteria.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from inception to 31 July 2022.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing anti-VEGF with sham, photodynamic therapy (PDT) or PDT combination therapy in patients with myopia CNV were reviewed and selected. RCTs comparing visual acuity (VA) stabilisation or disease activity as anti-VEGF retreatment criteria were also included in the study.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Two reviewers independently conducted data extraction and quality assessment. We used a random-effects model for all analyses. Primary outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness. Secondary outcomes included number of patients who gained more than three lines in BCVA, number of anti-VEGF injections and ocular adverse event (AE).

RESULTS

Seven RCTs involving 1007 patients were included. Compared with sham and PDT therapy, anti-VEGF therapy achieved better BCVA gains of -0.28 logMAR (95% CI -0.36 to -0.20, p<0.00001) and -0.14 logMAR (95% CI -0.17 to -0.10, p<0.00001), respectively. Both ranibizumab and bevacizumab improved patients' vision better than PDT therapy and no definitive increased risk of ocular AE was observed. Analysis of two small RCTs showed that PDT combination therapy had similar visual improvement and needed fewer anti-VEGF injections compared with anti-VEGF monotherapy (weighted mean difference (WMD)=1.30; 95% CI 1.24 to 1.37, p<0.00001). Anti-VEGF retreatment guided by disease activity criteria resulted in comparable visual improvement and reduced anti-VEGF injections compared with retreatment guided by VA stabilisation (WMD=0.83; 95% CI 0.42 to 1.25, p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-VEGF therapy is effective and well-tolerated for myopia CNV patients. Anti-VEGF retreatment guided by disease activity criteria can achieve comparable efficacy and potentially reduce anti-VEGF injections.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42021292806.

Real-World Treatment Intensity and Patterns in Patients With Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization: Common Data Model in Ophthalmology

BACKGROUND

A paucity of data addressing real-world treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) in the era of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs led us to investigate real-world treatment intensity and treatment patterns in patients with mCNV.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, observational study using the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership-Common Data Model database of treatment-naïve patients with mCNV over the 18-year study period (2003-2020). Outcomes were treatment intensity (time trends of total/average number of prescriptions, mean number of prescriptions in the first year and the second year after initiating treatment, proportion of patients with no treatment in the second year) and treatment patterns (subsequent patterns of treatment according to the initial treatment).

RESULTS

Our final cohort included 94 patients with at-least 1-year observation period. Overall, 96.8% of patients received anti-VEGF drugs as first-line treatment, with most of injections from bevacizumab. The number of anti-VEGF injections in each calendar year showed an increasing trend over time; however, there was a drop in the mean number of injections in the second year compared to the first year from 2.09 to 0.47. About 77% of patients did not receive any treatment in their second year of treatment regardless of drugs. Most of patients (86.2%) followed non-switching monotherapy only and bevacizumab was the most popular choice either in the first-line (68.1%) or in the second-line (53.8%) of treatment. Aflibercept was increasingly used as the first-line treatment for patients with mCNV.

CONCLUSION

Anti-VEGF drugs have become the treatment of choice and second-line treatment for mCNV over the past decade. Anti-VEGF drugs are effective for the treatment of mCNV as the non-switching monotherapy is the main treatment regimen in most cases and the number of treatments decreases significantly in the second year of treatment.

Characteristics and response of subretinal hyperreflective material to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor in myopic choroidal neovascularization

This retrospective study evaluated the characteristics and response of subretinal hyperreflective material (SHRM) to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment in eyes with myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV). The visual acuity (VA) was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months after initiating anti-VEGF treatment in 116 patients (119 eyes) with SHRM and myopic CNV. Multimodal imaging, including color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography (FA), and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A), were performed. We compared type 2 neovascularization (NV) (n = 64), subretinal hyperreflective exudation (SHE) (n = 37), NV with hemorrhage (n = 15), and fibrosis (n = 3). The type 2 NV group, and NV with hemorrhage groups showed significant VA improvement after 12 months of treatment (p < 0.05 in both groups); the SHE group failed to show improvement (p = 0.366). All groups showed a significant reduction in central foveal thickness after 12 months of treatment (all p < 0.05). The SHE group had a significantly higher incidence of interrupted ellipsoid zone than the other groups (p < 0.05). Myopic CNV can present as SHRM on OCT-A. Visual prognoses vary in different SHRM types. OCT-A and FA may help predict the outcomes of different subtypes of myopic CNV. SHE is predictive of outer retinal layer atrophy in patients with various SHRM types.

Vitreoretinal Interface Changes After Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment in Highly Myopic Eyes: A Real-World Study

INTRODUCTION

To investigate changes in the vitreoretinal interface after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment in highly myopic eyes.

METHODS

Eyes with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) treated with intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF in a single-center were retrospectively reviewed. Fundus abnormalities and features of optical computed tomography were studied.

RESULTS

A total of 295 eyes from 254 patients were recruited to the study. Prevalence of myopic macular retinoschisis (MRS) was 25.4%, and the rates of progression and onset of MRS were 75.9% and 16.2%, respectively. Outer retinal schisis (β = 8.586, p = 0.003) and lamellar macular hole (LMH) (β = 5.015, p = 0.043) at baseline were identified risk factors for progression and onset of MRS, whereas male sex (β = 9.000, p = 0.039) and outer retinal schisis at baseline (β = 5.250, p = 0.010) were risk factors for MRS progression. Progression of MRS was first detected in outer retinal layers in 48.3% of eyes. Thirteen eyes required surgical intervention. Spontaneous improvements of MRS were observed in five eyes (6.3%).

CONCLUSION

Changes in the vitreoretinal interface, such as progression, onset, and improvement of MRS, were observed after anti-VEGF treatment. Outer retinal schisis and LMH were risk factors of progression and onset of MRS after anti-VEGF treatment. Intravitreal injection of ranibizumab and retinal hemorrhage were protective factors for surgical intervention for vision-threatening MRS.

Optical coherence tomography biomarkers for myopic choroidal neovascularization treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor

In recent years, optical coherence tomography (OCT) biomarkers for specific retinal diseases have been found to be associated with treatment outcome and disease recurrence. The main purposes of this study were to identify OCT biomarkers for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) treated with intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF). OCT features in 43 eyes of 39 patients with mCNV treated with anti-VEGF with at least 1 year of follow-up were retrospectively analyzed. Eyes with subretinal hyperreflective material (SHM) in baseline spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) had significantly more visual improvement than eyes without SHM at month 6 (p = 0.007) and had a trend of more visual improvement than eyes without SHM (p = 0.058) at month 12. Eyes with subretinal fluid (SRF) at baseline had significantly more central retinal thickness (CRT) decrease than patients without SRF at month 6 and 12 (p = 0.012 and 0.006 respectively). In univariate regression analysis, dome-shaped macula (DSM), SRF in baseline OCT image and fuzzy border of mCNV when entering pro re nata (PRN) injection protocol tended to have higher risk of disease recurrence in 1 year (odds ratio: 14.86 (p = 0.003), 3.75 (p = 0.049) and 22.92 (p < 0.001) respectively). However, they were not significant in multivariate regression analysis. OCT biomarkers at baseline could provide prognostic information for mCNV management.

RISK FACTORS OF VISION LOSS AND MULTIPLE RECURRENCES IN MYOPIC MACULAR NEOVASCULARIZATION

PURPOSE

To investigate the factors associated with maximum visual improvement (peak vision) gain and the risk factors of peak vision loss and multiple recurrences in myopic macular neovascularization undergoing antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 310 eyes with active myopic macular neovascularization and median follow-up of 3.5 years. We defined peak vision gain as the maximum best-corrected visual acuity value reached under treatment and peak vision loss as best-corrected visual acuity never scoring as peak vision. We used multiple-event Prentice, Williams, and Peterson models to compute recurrences' incidence and Cox regression to identify risk factors for peak vision gain, peak vision loss, and multiple recurrences.

RESULTS

Eyes with worse baseline best-corrected visual acuity {hazard ratio (HR) = 2.59 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.63-4.11) for 0.1 logMAR increase, P < 0.001} had higher chance to achieve peak vision. Peak vision was lost in 162 eyes (52%). Older age (HR = 1.22 [95% CI: 1.02-1.43] for 10-year increase, P = 0.02) and recurrences (HR = 1.10 [95% CI: 1.01-1.22] for event, P = 0.04) predicted nonsustained peak vision. Older age (HR = 1.13 [95% CI: 1.04-1.27] for 10-year increase, P = 0.006), larger myopic macular neovascularization (HR = 1.06 [95% CI: 1.01-1.13] for 1-mm 2 increase, P = 0.04), and juxtafoveal location (HR = 1.88 [95% CI: 1.28-2.77] vs. extrafoveal, P = 0.001) predicted multiple recurrences.

CONCLUSION

Myopic macular neovascularization eyes lose vision mainly because of multiple recurrences. Patients at risk for recurrences should undergo more attentive monitoring to avoid vision loss.

Efficacy and safety of Aflibercept for the treatment of inflammatory choroidal neovascularization: The ALINEA study

PURPOSE

To evaluate mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 52 weeks in patients with inflammatory choroidal neovascularization (CNV) treated with aflibercept.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective non-comparative open-label trial. Following one mandatory intravitreal injection of aflibercept, patients were treated under a pro re nata (PRN) dosing regimen with monthly visits.

RESULTS

A total of 19 patients were included, but one presented exclusion criteria; 16 patients were followed for the whole 52-week study, and data for the primary endpoint analysis were available for 14. At baseline, mean BCVA and mean central retinal thickness (CRT) were 64.53 (±19.64) letters and 351.79 (±97.77) μm, respectively. At 52 weeks, the mean change in BCVA was +9.50 (±12.90) letters [95%CI = +2.05-+16.95]. One patient had lost more than 15-letters at 24 weeks, and another one at 52 weeks. CRT change was -62.77 (±100.73) μm at 24 weeks and -66.53 (±97.47) μm at 52 weeks. There was a mean number of 3.56 (±3.29) intravitreal injections at 52 weeks (min = 1; max = 12). No serious ocular adverse events related to the treatment were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that aflibercept is clinically effective, both anatomically and functionally in the treatment of inflammatory CNV. Following the first injection, the PRN strategy appears sufficient for treating most choroidal neovessels.

The value of handholding during intravitreal injections

BACKGROUND

Repeated intravitreal injections (IVI) have become the therapeutic standard of care for multiple retinal conditions. Reducing discomfort and anxiety around IVIs is important to ensure ongoing patient compliance with therapy.

AIMS

The study aimed to investigate if handholding during an IVI reduces patient anxiety, and to ascertain if their anxiety lessens following repeated therapy.

METHODS

Patients attending for IVIs were asked preoperatively to plot their anxiety level using the visual analogue scale for anxiety (VASA) from 0-10. They were randomised into three groups: Hand-Held-Skin-to-Skin (HHS), Hand-Held-Skin-to-Glove (HHG) and Hand-not-Held (HNH) during IVI. Post-IVI, patients were asked to recall and plot their experienced level of anxiety at the time of their first injection (First Injection Anxiety, FIA) on the 0-10 visual analogue scale for anxiety. Both hand-held cohorts were also asked their preference for handholding for future injections.

RESULTS

In total, 195 patients were surveyed: HHS, n = 67; HHG, n = 58 and HNH, n = 70. A total of 98% of respondents in both Hand-Held cohorts stated they found the intervention useful in reducing anxiety, with 97% saying they would like their hand held for subsequent IVIs. Patients' anxiety levels significantly reduced when their hand was held gloved or ungloved for IVIs (p = 0.007). IVI associated anxiety did not lessen with repeated therapy.

CONCLUSION

Patient stress levels are considerably reduced when their hand is held during IVI. Handholding is a useful intervention throughout the patient journey and not solely at the time of initiation of treatment.

Myopic macular diseases: A review

Recent evidence has demonstrated that the global public health burden of myopia is rising rapidly. Highly myopic eyes are associated with increased frequency of eye disorders that can lead to irreversible visual impairment. With recent technological advancement in ophthalmic imaging modalities, various macular complications associated with pathologic myopia are being elucidated. The development and progression of myopic chorioretinal atrophy, myopic macular neovascularization, myopic traction maculopathy and dome-shaped macula are vision-threatening myopic macular diseases. In order to overcome the challenges in managing patients with pathologic myopia, it is important to have a complete understanding in the natural course of these myopic macular diseases. Standardising the classification criteria of pathologic myopia is essential for enhancing clinical surveillance. Personalised pharmaceutical therapy and surgical interventions will help to optimise the treatment outcomes in patients suffering from these myopic macular diseases.

Prospective Study Comparing Quantitative Self-Monitoring Metamorphopsia Measurement Tools in Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization (mCNV)

Purpose

To assess the ability of two self-monitoring digital devices to detect metamorphopsia in myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and compare their usability.

Patients and Methods

This was a 12-month prospective observational study at a tertiary care eye hospital, Switzerland. Twenty-three Caucasian patients with mCNV were recruited, 21 eyes were analyzed. Primary and secondary outcome measures: Primary outcome measures were the metamorphopsia index scores as assessed by the two self-monitoring digital devices (Alleye App and AMD - A-Metamorphopsia-Detector software) at baseline, at 6 and 12 months and individual optional visits in between. Secondary outcome measures included best corrected visual acuity and morphological parameters (including disease activity) as evaluated by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence imaging. Location of mCNV was graded using the Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study grid overlay. A usability questionnaire was administered at 12 months. Bland-Altman plots evaluated the limits of agreement of both devices. Linear regression analysis assessed the correlation between the difference and the average of the two scores.

Results

A total of 202 tests were performed. Disease activity of mCNV was observed at least once in 14 eyes. Both scores concordantly detected metamorphopsia exhibiting a displaced scale of measurement yielding a coefficient of determination of 0.99. Concordance rate for pathological scores was 73.3%. Both scores were not significantly different in active and inactive mCNV. Overall, the usability scores were higher for the Alleye App than the AMD - A-Metamorphopsia-Detector software (4.61±0.56 vs 3.31±1.20; p<0.001). In subjects aged >75 years, scores were slightly lower (4.08±0.86 vs 2.97±1.16; p= 0.032).

Conclusion

Whilst both self-monitoring devices concordantly identified metamorphopsia, they might act as an adjunct to hospital visits, but due to slight reactivations in mCNV and presence of metamorphopsia also in inactive disease the ability of detecting early mCNV activity might be limited.

Recent trends in anti-vascular endothelial growth factor intravitreal injections: a large claims database study in Japan

PURPOSE

To clarify recent trends in the use of intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in Japan.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

We used the DeSC database, a large-scale claims database for Japan, for entries between April 2014 and March 2021. We counted the number of anti-VEGF drug injections (aflibercept, ranibizumab, brolucizumab, and pegaptanib) administered every year, calculated the sex- and age-adjusted injection rates, and stratified these rates according to sex, age categories, anti-VEGF drugs, and diagnoses. We also calculated the number of injections administered within one year after the first injection according to the diagnoses.

RESULTS

In total, 164,451 cases of anti-VEGF injections were identified. The sex- and age-adjusted rates of anti-VEGF injections per 1000 person-years increased from 7.9 in 2014 to 16.1 in 2020. Men were approximately twice as likely to receive anti-VEGF injections than women. The 70-79, 80-89, and ≥90 age categories had the highest rates, accounting for approximately 80%. Neovascular age-related macular degeneration had the highest rate, accounting for 60-70% over the study period. Aflibercept was the most commonly used drug, accounting for approximately 80% over the study period. The average number of injections within one year after the first injection was 4.4 for neovascular age-related macular degeneration, 2.7 for branch retinal vein occlusion, 3.1 for central retinal vein occlusion, and 3.5 for diabetic macular edema in 2020.

CONCLUSION

These findings can be used as a benchmark for the clinical practice of anti-VEGF therapy.

Global trends and frontiers of research on pathologic myopia since the millennium: A bibliometric analysis

Background and purpose

Pathologic myopia (PM) is an international public health issue. This study aimed to analyze PM research trends by reporting on publication trends since 2000 and identifying influential journals, countries, authors, and keywords involved in PM.

Methods

A bibliometric analysis was performed to evaluate global production and development trends in PM since 2000 and the keywords associated with PM.

Results

A total of 1,435 publications were retrieved. PM has become a fascinating topic (with relative research interest ranging from 0.0018% in 2000 to 0.0044% in 2021) and a global public health issue. The top three countries with the highest number of publications were China, the USA, and Japan. The journals, authors, and institutions that published the most relevant literature came from these three countries. China exhibited the most rapid increase in the number of publications (from 0 in 2000 to 69 in 2021). Retina published the most papers on PM. Kyoko Ohno-Matsui and Tokyo Medical and Dental University contributed the most publications among authors and institutions, respectively. Based on keyword analysis, previous research emphasized myopic choroidal neovascularization and treatment, while recent hotspots include PM changes based on multimodal imaging, treatment, and pathogenesis. Keyword analysis also revealed that deep learning was the latest hotspot and has been used for the detection of PM.

Conclusion

Our results can help researchers understand the current status and future trends of PM. China, the USA, and Japan have the greatest influence, based on the number of publications, top journals, authors, and institutions. Current research on PM highlights the pathogenesis and application of novel technologies, including multimodal imaging and artificial intelligence.

Risk factors for myopic choroidal neovascularization-related macular atrophy after anti-VEGF treatment

Purpose

The study aimed to evaluate risk factors for macular atrophy (MA) associated with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) during long-term follow-up after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment in highly myopic eyes.

Methods

The medical records of patients who received intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents as mCNV treatment and were followed-up for more than 36 months were retrospectively reviewed. The risk factors for the development of mCNV-MA, which is the fovea-involving patchy atrophy lesion adjacent to mCNV, were investigated using the Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

A total of 82 eyes (74 patients) were included in the study. The mean age at anti-VEGF treatment was 56.3 ± 12.5 years (range, 26–77), and the mean follow-up period was 76.3 ± 33.5 months (range, 36–154). During follow-up, mCNV-MA developed in 27 eyes (32.9%), and its occurrence was estimated to be 24.5% at 3 years and 37.3% at 5 years after the first anti-VEGF treatment. Old age (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.054, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.018–1.091; P = 0.003) and greater CNV size at baseline (HR = 2.396, CI: 1.043–5.504; P = 0.040) were significant factors for mCNV-MA development. Eyes with a thinner subfoveal choroid were more likely to show faster enlargement of the mCNV-MA during follow-up.

Conclusions

In mCNV eyes treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents, older age and greater mCNV size at baseline were risk factors for the development of MA during long-term follow-up, which was associated with a poor visual prognosis.

Incidence and Visual Outcomes of Endophthalmitis After Intravitreal Injection of Dexamethasone Implant vs Ranibizumab

Purpose

To compare the incidence and visual outcomes of endophthalmitis after injection of an intravitreal dexamethasone implant and injection of intravitreal ranibizumab.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study assessed endophthalmitis in eyes receiving an intravitreal injection of a 0.7 mg dexamethasone implant (DEX group), 0.5 mg ranibizumab (R5 group), or 0.3 mg ranibizumab (R3 group) between January 1, 2016, and May 31, 2018, at 2 large retina practices in the United States.

Results

Suspected endophthalmitis occurred in 5 eyes after 4973 DEX injections, 43 eyes after 163 974 R5 injections, and 6 eyes after 18 954 R3 injections. Suspected endophthalmitis was significantly more common in the DEX group (1/995) than in the R5 group (1/3813) (P = .008) but not than in the R3 group (1/3159) (P = .10). Visual acuity outcomes were similar in the 3 groups.

Conclusions

Suspected endophthalmitis might be more common after 0.7 mg dexamethasone injections than after 0.5 mg ranibizumab injections. Culture-positive endophthalmitis rates were similar across all 3 medications.

Characteristics of choroidal neovascularization in elderly eyes with high myopia not meeting the pathologic myopia definition

The META-Analysis of Pathologic Myopia Study group proposed a new classification system for myopic maculopathy (MM) with pathologic myopia (PM) defined as MM equal to/more serious than diffuse atrophy or the presence of plus lesions and myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) defined as CNV in the eye with PM. However, CNV in elderly eyes with high myopia (HM) not meeting the PM definition (high-myopia CNV) are not classified as age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) or mCNV. This retrospective study included 39 eyes with high-myopia CNV, 20 eyes with mCNV, and 20 eyes with AMD. All patients were at least 40 years old. We compared the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes among three groups. The high-myopia CNV group had significantly more CNV types, shorter axial length and fewer lacquer cracks (P < 0.0001, respectively); larger baseline greatest linear dimension (P = 0.0002), more fellow-eye drusen (P = 0.0106), more men (P = 0.0029), and more treatments (24 months, P = 0.0098) compared to the mCNV group. Compared with the nAMD group, the high-myopia CNV group was significantly younger (P = 0.0041), and had fewer CNV types (P = 0.0316), more lacquer cracks (P = 0.0079) and fewer drusen (affected-eye, P = 0.0006 and fellow-eye, P = 0.0222), and fewer treatments (24 months, P = 0.0030). Because the CNV in elderly eyes with HM not meeting the PM definition is classified as combined mCNV and nAMD, the clinical and angiographic findings are critical to determine the treatment strategy.

Association of Superficial and Deep Macular Microvasculature with Central Visual Field Sensitivity in Glaucomatous Eyes with High Myopia

Purpose: To investigate the relationship between two distinct layers of macular vessel density (superficial vascular plexus (SVP) and deep vascular plexus (DVP)) and central visual field sensitivity (cVFS) in open-angle glaucoma (OAG) eyes with high myopia. Method: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 148 OAG eyes (64 highly myopic (HMG) and 84 non-highly myopic glaucomas (NMG)) as well as 54 healthy eyes. High myopia was defined as a spherical equivalent of less than −6.0 diopters or an axial length of ≥26.0 mm. The global and sectoral SVP–cVFS and DVP–cVFS relationships were compared in each group. Macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness (mGCIPLT)–cVFS relationships were also investigated as reference standards. Linear regression analysis was performed to identify the clinical factors associated with cVFS. Results: DVP–cVFS correlations were as strong as those for SVP–cVFS and mGCIPLT–cVFS in HMG eyes. In contrast, DVP–cVFS correlations were significantly lower than SVP–cVFS and mGCILT–cVFS correlations in NMG eyes. In linear regression analysis, both SVP and DVP were significantly associated with cVFS in HMG eyes, but only SVP showed a significant correlation with cVFS in NMG eyes. Conclusion: DVP assessment using OCT-A may be a useful tool for detecting and monitoring OAG eyes with high myopia.

Genetic Polymorphisms in VEGFR Coding Genes (FLT1/KDR) on Ranibizumab Response in High Myopia and Choroidal Neovascularization Patients

A severe form of myopia defined as pathologic/high myopia is the main cause of visual impairment and one of the most frequent causes of blindness worldwide. It is characterized by at least 6 diopters or axial length (AL) of eyeball > 26 mm and choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in 5 to 10% of cases. Ranibizumab is a humanized recombinant monoclonal antibody fragment targeted against human vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) used in the treatment of CNV. It acts by preventing VEGF-A from interacting with its receptors (VEGFR-1 and -2) encoded by the FLT1 and KDR genes. Several studies found that the KDR and FLT1 genotypes may represent predictive determinants of efficacy in ranibizumab-treated neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients. We performed a retrospective study to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in VEGFR coding genes with the response rate to ranibizumab in patients with high myopia and CNV. In the association study of genotypes in FLT1 with the response to ranibizumab, we found a significant association between two FLT1 variants (rs9582036, rs7993418) with ranibizumab efficacy at the 12-month follow-up. About the KDR gene, we found that two KDR variants (rs2305948, rs2071559) are associated with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement and KDR (rs2239702) is associated with lower rates of BCVA worsening considering a 12-month follow-up period.

Incidence, predictors and re-treatment outcomes of recurrent myopic choroidal neo-vascularization

Objectives

To evaluate incidence, predictors, and re-treatment outcome of recurrent myopic choroidal neovascularization (m-CNV).

Methods

Retrospective consecutive observational series. From year 2014 to 2019, 167 eyes of 167 patients of treatment naïve m-CNV were enrolled. 59 and 108 eyes were treated with intra-vitreal ranibizumab and bevacizumab mono-therapy, respectively. Recurrence was defined as re-appearance of CNV activity, confirmed on optical coherence tomography (OCT) after at least 3 months of cessation of anti-VEGF therapy. Incidence of recurrence, predictors and re-treatment outcomes were studied.

Results

Overall, mean age and spherical equivalence (SE) was 47.95 ± 14.72 years and -12.19 ± 4.93 D respectively. Males constituted 50.9%. 44 eyes (26.4%) had a recurrence during a mean follow up of 16.5 ± 12.86 months. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed the risk of recurrence was 8, 26 and, 33.6% at 6, 12 and 18 months, respectively. Age (p = 0.511), gender (p = 0.218), SE (p = 0.092), anti-VEGF (p = 0.629) and baseline BCVA (p = 0.519) did not influence recurrence. Number of injections administered to control the disease in the first episode was the only significant predictor of recurrence (Cox Proportional Hazard Ratio 2.89–3.07, 95% Confidence Interval: 1.28–7.45; p = 0.005). At 12 months, eyes requiring one injection in first episode had a recurrence rate of 12% versus 45% in eyes requiring 3 or more injections in the first episode. A mean number of 1.9 additional injections per eye was needed during re-treatment. Final BCVA in the recurrence group was similar to that of non-recurrence group (0.53 ± 0.40 versus 0.55 ± 0.36 LogMAR; p = 0.755). Baseline BCVA (p = 0.0001) was the only predictor of final visual outcome irrespective of anti-VEGF drug (p = 0.38).

Conclusion

Eyes requiring greater number of injections for disease control in first episode are “at risk” of early m-CNV recurrence. However, recurrence does not adversely affect visual outcome, if treated adequately.

Morphological parameters of myopic choroidal neovascularization as predictive factors of anti-VEGF treatment response

The objective of this prospective study was to investigate the morphological changes of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) after treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and to identify potential features predictive of the final BCVA. OCT and OCTA features were evaluated at baseline and at 1, 6 and 12 months. Parameters investigated were the maturity pattern, presence of mCNV OCT activity signs, subretinal fibrosis and mCNV area. Forty patients (41 eyes) were included in the study. At the final visit, after a mean of 3.1 ± 1.4 injections, BCVA had improved significantly (p = 0.009) and subretinal hyperreflective exudation, subretinal fluid and intraretinal cysts nearly disappeared at 12 months. At baseline, 20 eyes had an immature CNV that were smaller, required less injections (2.5 ± 1.2 vs 3.8 ± 1.4, p = 0.002), they completely regressed in seven eyes and achieved a better BCVA (0.14 ± 0.15 vs 0.40 ± 0.26 logMAR, p < 0.001) when compared to mature CNV. Subretinal fibrosis developed in 19 eyes (46.3%) with lower final BCVA than eyes without fibrosis (0.19 ± 0.24 vs 0.38 ± 0.22 logMAR, p = 0.012). Baseline immature pattern (p = 0.005) and baseline BCVA (p < 0.001) were predictive of final BCVA. Multimodal imaging is useful to define mCNV changes during treatment. OCTA provides prognostic information which cannot achieved by other imaging techniques.

Predicting lesion shrinkage in eyes with myopic choroidal neovascularization from features on optical coherence tomography angiography

PURPOSE

To identify baseline morphological predictors of lesion shrinkage in eyes with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

METHODS

This retrospective study included 46 eyes (41 consecutive patients) with active mCNV receiving anti-VEGF treatment. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) was performed at baseline and 1 year after treatment. Quantitative features were obtained from OCTA images using AngioTool software. Eyes were classified as "high-shrinkage" or "low-shrinkage" according to the median relative change in lesion area. Baseline quantitative morphological features associated with mCNV shrinkage were identified in univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS

The mCNV area was significantly smaller after 1 year (P=0.013), with a median relative change of -16.5%. The relative change in mCNV area was -48.3% in high-shrinkage eyes (n=23) and -5.2% in low-shrinkage eyes (n=23). High-shrinkage eyes had a smaller mCNV area (P=0.013), shorter total vessel length (P=0.023), and higher endpoint density (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed significant associations of high shrinkage with endpoint density (β=-0.037, P=0.043) and previous anti-VEGF treatment (β=0.216, P=0.029).

CONCLUSION

Morphological features of neovascularization detected by OCTA can predict lesion shrinkage in eyes with mCNV receiving anti-VEGF therapy. Higher endpoint density contributed to shrinkage, particularly of treatment-naive lesions.

The efficacy of different anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents and prognostic biomarkers in monitoring of the treatment for myopic choroidal neovascularization

PURPOSE

To evaluate anatomical and visual results of eyes with naive myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) in patients treated with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This is a retrospective, non-randomized, comperative, intervetional study. One hundred fourteen eyes of 114 patients with mCNV who underwent intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB), intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) or intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) monotherapy injections were enrolled into the study. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT) and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) were compared among the groups during the follow-up periods at the beginning, months 1, 3, 6, 12, and the final visit.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 47.76 ± 10.57 years (range, 33-72 years) and the mean follow-up period was 23.34 ± 6.81 months (range, 13-38 months). The mean BCVA denoted a significantly improve at each group (p < 0.05). In terms of an inter-group analysis of all 3 groups, at months 1, 6, and 12 and final visit, the BCVA were statistically significantly better in the IVA group when compared to both IVB and IVR groups (p = 0.021, p = 0.032, p = 0.024, p = 0.012). There was a significant decrease in CMT following IVB (236.49 ± 40.91 μm-190.74 ± 50.12 μm), IVA (232.91 ± 46.29 μm-193.73 ± 46.81 μm) and IVR (234.78 ± 45.37 μm-192.21 ± 37.27 μm) between baseline and final visit (p = 0.018, p = 0.002, p < 0.001, respectively). There was a statistically significant decrease in SFCT values between baseline and final examination only in the IVA group (p < 0.001). The mean number of injections were 9.18 ± 3.18 (range; 3 to 13) in IVB, 6.46 ± 2.93 (range; 3-11) in IVR and 4.45 ± 1.42 (range; 2-7) in IVA (p = 0.028).

CONCLUSION

All three anti-VEGFs were found to be effective in terms of visual results in patients with mCNV. However, we demonstrated that IVA reduces the need for anti-VEGF when compared to patients who received both IVB and IVR. Furthermore, IVA induced a prominent reduction in SFCT, whereas IVR and IVB did not have a significant action on SFCT.

A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines for myopic macular degeneration

Background

Myopic macular degeneration (MMD) is a primary cause of blindness and visual impairment in many parts of the world. A review of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for intervention selection are required with the increasing demand for MMD management in clinical practice as well as in national health services. Therefore, we aim to systematically review CPGs for MMD and assist the recommendations development of the Package of Eye Care Interventions (PECI) program of the World Health Organization.

Methods

A systematic review of CPGs published on MMD between 2010 and April 2020 was conducted. Guidelines were evaluated using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) tool. Cochrane systematic reviews were also included when the evidence from included CPGs were inadequate or contradict.

Results

After applying exclusion criteria and conducting the quality appraisal, two CPGs were finally included. The average of the AGREE II ratings for the identified Guidelines were 56 and 63 respectively (7 for each item). To provide further information on interventions for MMD, one Cochrane review on MMD was additionally identified and included in the study. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs were recommended for patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) as first-line therapy to improve vision and reduce central macular thickness, and ranibizumab showed significant effectiveness compared to photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT was recommended to be performed in those resistant to the treatment by one CPG but lacked of adequate description and support. Data extracted from the Cochrane systematic reviews indicated that anti-VEGF therapy for mCNV had significant effectiveness in improving visual acuity and reducing CMT compared to PDT with moderate to low certainty of evidence. Ranibizumab and bevacizumab were considered as equally effective with moderate certainty.

Conclusions

The outcomes of this review suggest that high quality clinical practice guidelines for MMD management are limited. Intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents was recommended as an effective intervention to treat myopic CNV as the first-line treatment, while there was inadequate guidance for the application of PDT in myopic CNV management. The use of other interventions for MMD were not recommended at this time and additional evidence is called for.

Response to treatment of choroidal neovascularization in highly myopic eyes with dome-shaped macula: 2 years of follow-up

PURPOSE

to compare the two-year outcome to anti-VEGF therapy for myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in eyes with or without dome-shaped macula (DSM).

METHODS

data from treatment-naïve myopic CNV with a two-years follow-up were retrospectively collected and divided in two groups according to the presence of DSM. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was acquired at baseline, 3, 12 and 24 months. The association between visual outcomes and CNV type and area, presence of scleral-derived feeder vessel, macular atrophy and lacquer cracks at baseline was also evaluated.

RESULTS

54 eyes of 54 patients were included; 18 eyes (33.4%) had DSM. CNV was foveal in 10 DSM eyes (55.6%) and in 30 non-DSM eyes (83.9%), p=0.033. At baseline, the mean BCVA was significantly higher in the DSM group (68.33±12.04 ETDRS letters, 20/40 Snellen) compared to the non-DSM group (57.75±13.46 ETDRS letters, 20/72 Snellen; p=0.007). This difference disappeared after 3 months and did not reoccur afterwards. All other parameters were not significantly associated with visual outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

overall, DSM does not represent a negative prognostic factor in response to anti-VEGF therapy in myopic CNVs after two years. However, in DSM eyes, CNVs tend to be extra-foveal, thus ensuring a good visual prognosis from the earliest stage of the disease.

Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors for predominantly Caucasian myopic choroidal neovascularization: 2-year treatment outcomes in clinical practice: data from the Fight Retinal Blindness! Registry

Purpose

To report the 24‐month outcomes of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) in predominantly Caucasian eyes in routine clinical practice.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of treatment‐naïve eyes starting intravitreal injection of VEGF inhibitors of either bevacizumab (1.25 mg) or ranibizumab (0.5 mg) for mCNV from 1 January 2006 to 31 May 2018 that were tracked in the Fight Retinal Blindness! registry.

Results

We identified 203 eyes (bevacizumab–85 and ranibizumab–118) of 189 patients. The estimated mean (95% CI) change in VA over 24 months for all eyes using longitudinal models was +8 (5, 11) letters with a median (Q1, Q3) of 3 (2, 5) injections given mostly during the first year. The estimated mean change in VA at 24 months was similar between bevacizumab and ranibizumab [+9 (5, 13) letters for bevacizumab versus +9 (6, 13) letters for ranibizumab; p = 0.37]. Both agents were also similar in the mCNV activity outcomes, treatment frequency and visit frequency.

Conclusions

The 24‐month treatment outcomes of VEGF inhibitors for mCNV were favourable in this largest series yet reported of predominantly Caucasian eyes in routine clinical practice, with approximately two lines of visual gain and a median of three injections given mostly during the first year. These outcomes are similar to those reported for predominantly Asian eyes. Bevacizumab appeared to be as safe and effective as ranibizumab.

INTRAVITREAL RANIBIZUMAB IN PREGNANT PATIENT WITH MYOPIC CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULAR MEMBRANE. A CASE REPORT

AIM

To present the case of a patient with myopic choroidal neovascular membrane (mCNV) in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, who was treated with intravitreal ranibizumab.

CASE REPORT

The 34-year-old patient was referred to the Department of Ophthalmology of the University Hospital Kralovske Vinohrady in January 2020 for mCNV on her right eye (RE). The patient was in the 34th week of pregnancy. Initial best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 68 ETDRS letters. Spherical equivalent of the RE was -11.5 dioptres, axial length of the RE was 27.7 mm. Pigmented CNV with small haemorrhage was present on the retina of the RE. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the RE showed a hyperreflective mass above the retinal pigment epithelium, central retinal thickness (CRT) was 310 µm. OCT angiography confirmed the presence of a classic CNV in the macula of the RE. Two weeks later, the hyperreflective lesion and oedema in the macula of the RE increased, the CRT was 329 µm, BCVA remained stable. After discussion with the patient and the treating gynaecologist, intravitreal ranibizumab was administered in the RE in the 36th week of pregnancy. On check-up 3 weeks later, we observed the decrease of macular oedema to 276 µm and the improvement of BCVA to 78 ETDRS letters. The patient delivered a healthy baby girl in the 39th week of pregnancy via caesarean section, postnatal adaptation of the newborn was normal. During further visits, the BCVA improved to 83 ETDRS letters and the macular oedema disappeared completely. 8 months after the first ranibizumab injection, the CNV reactivated, BCVA decreased to 72 ETDRS letters, oedema was present in the macula and the CRT was 309 µm. Another ranibizumab was administered into the RE. The patient then discovered that she was pregnant; according to calculations, she was in the 3rd week of pregnancy at the time of the second ranibizumab injection. After the second injection, BCVA improved to 79 ETDRS letters, macular oedema on the OCT disappeared and CRT decreased to 264 µm. The pregnancy was terminated per patients request.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal administration of ranibizumab in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy led to the improvement of BCVA and decrease of macular oedema in the patient with mCNV. The injection had no adverse effect on the pregnancy or the postnatal adaptation of the newborn. However, it is always necessary to consider the risk/benefit ratio when administering intravitreal antiVEGF drugs in pregnant patients. Thorough discussion with the patient is necessary.

Genetic Polymorphisms Affecting Ranibizumab Response in High Myopia Patients

High myopia is an ophthalmic pathology that affects half of the young adults in the United States and Europe and it is predicted that a third of the world’s population could be nearsighted at the end of this decade. It is characterized by at least 6 diopters or axial length > 26 mm and, choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in 5 to 11% of cases. Ranibizumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody fragment. It is an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drug used in the treatment of CNV. Many genetic polymorphisms have been associated with interindividual differences in the response to ranibizumab, but these associations were not yet assessed among patients with high myopia and CNV. We performed a retrospective study assessing the association of genetic polymorphisms with response to ranibizumab in patients with CNV secondary to high myopia (mCNV). We included genetic polymorphisms previously associated with the response to drugs used in CNV patients (bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and photodynamic therapy (PDT)). We also included genetic variants in the VEGFA gene. Based on our results, ARMS2 (rs10490924) and CFH (rs1061170) are associated with response to ranibizumab in high myopia patients; and, included VEGFA genetic polymorphisms are not associated with ranibizumab response in our population but might be related to a higher risk of CNV.