1
|
Rowe LW, Ciulla TA. Long acting delivery and therapies for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Expert Opin Biol Ther 2024. [PMID: 38953649 DOI: 10.1080/14712598.2024.2374869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) represents a leading cause of severe visual impairment in individuals over 50 years of age in developed nations. Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections have become the standard of care for treating nAMD; however, monthly or bimonthly dosing represents significant time and cost burden due to the disease's chronic nature and limited medication half-life. AREAS COVERED This review summarizes innovative therapeutics and delivery methods for nAMD. Emerging methods for extended drug delivery include high molar concentration anti-VEGF drugs, intravitreal sustained release devices, reservoirs for intravitreal delivery, and gene therapy biofactories. In addition to VEGF-A, therapies targeting inhibition of VEGF-C and D, the angiopoetin-2 (Ang-2)/Tie-2 pathway, tyrosine kinases, and integrins are reviewed. EXPERT OPINION The evolving therapeutic landscape of nAMD is rapidly expanding our toolkit for effective and durable treatment. Recent FDA approvals of faricimab (Vabysmo) and high dose aflibercept (Eylea HD) for nAMD with potential extension of injection intervals up to four months have been promising developments for patients and providers alike. Further research and innovation, including novel delivery techniques and pharmacologic targets, is necessary to validate the efficacy of developing therapeutics and characterize real-world outcomes. demonstrating promise in expanding treatment durability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas W Rowe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Thomas A Ciulla
- Department of Ophthalmology, Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Retina Service, Midwest Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sunaga T, Maeda M, Saulle R, Ng SM, Sato MT, Hasegawa T, Mason AN, Noma H, Ota E. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor biosimilars for neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 6:CD015804. [PMID: 38829176 PMCID: PMC11146280 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd015804.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease characterized by choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and is a leading cause of vision loss and disability worldwide. Although intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is an effective treatment option that helps to prevent vision loss or to improve visual acuity in people with neovascular AMD, treatment imposes a significant financial burden on patients and healthcare systems. A biosimilar is a biological product that has been developed to be nearly identical to a previously approved biological product. The use of biosimilars may help reduce costs and so may increase patient access to effective biologic medicines with similar levels of safety to the drugs on which they are based. OBJECTIVES To assess the benefits and harms of anti-VEGF biosimilar agents compared with their corresponding anti-VEGF agents (i.e. the reference products) that have obtained regulatory approval for intravitreal injections in people with neovascular AMD. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, two other databases, and two trials registries together with reference checking and contact with study authors to identify studies that are included in the review. The latest search date was 2 June 2023. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared approved anti-VEGF biosimilars with their reference products for treating the eyes of adult participants (≥ 50 years) who had an active primary or recurrent choroidal neovascularization lesion secondary to neovascular AMD. OUTCOMES Our outcomes were: best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), vision-related quality of life, serious ocular and non-ocular adverse events (AE), treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), and serum concentrations of biosimilars and reference drugs. RISK OF BIAS We assessed the risk of bias (RoB) for seven outcomes reported in a summary of findings table by using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. SYNTHESIS METHODS We synthesized results for each outcome using meta-analysis, where possible, by calculating risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and continuous outcomes, respectively. Where this was not possible due to the nature of the data, we summarized the results narratively. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of evidence for prespecified outcomes. INCLUDED STUDIES We included nine parallel-group multi-center RCTs that enrolled a total of 3814 participants (3814 participating eyes), with sample sizes that ranged from 160 to 705 participants per study. The mean age of the participants in these studies ranged from 67 to 76 years, and the proportion of women ranged from 26.5% to 58.7%. Ranibizumab (Lucentis) was the reference product in seven studies, and aflibercept (Eyelea) was the reference product in two others. All the included studies had been supported by industry. The follow-up periods ranged from 12 to 52 weeks (median 48 weeks). Five studies (56%) were conducted in multi-country settings across Europe, North America and Asia, two studies in India, and one each in Japan and the Republic of Korea. We judged all the included studies to have met high methodological standards. SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS With regard to efficacy, our meta-analyses demonstrated that anti-VEGF biosimilars for neovascular AMD resulted in little to no difference compared with the reference products for BCVA change at 8 to 12 weeks (MD -0.55 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters, 95% CI -1.17 to 0.07; 8 studies, 3603 participants; high-certainty evidence) and the proportion of participants who lost fewer than 15 letters in BCVA at 24 to 48 weeks (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.01; 7 studies, 2658 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Almost all participants (96.6% in the biosimilar group and 97.0% in the reference product group) lost fewer than 15 letters in BCVA. The evidence from two studies suggested that there was no evidence of difference between biosimilars and reference products in vision-related quality of life measured by the 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (NEI-VFQ-25) summary scores at 24 to 48 weeks (MD 0.82, 95% CI -0.70 to 2.35; 2 studies, 894 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). With regard to the safety profile, meta-analyses also revealed little to no difference between anti-VEGF biosimilars and the reference products for the proportion of participants who experienced serious ocular AEs (RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.68 to 2.26; 7 studies, 3292 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), and for TEAEs leading to investigational product discontinuation or death (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.63 to 1.46; 8 studies, 3497 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Overall, 1.4% of participants in the biosimilar group and 1.2% in the reference product group experienced serious ocular adverse events. The most frequently documented serious ocular AEs were retinal hemorrhage and endophthalmitis. Although the evidence is of low certainty due to imprecision, meta-analysis suggested that anti-VEGF biosimilars led to no difference compared with the reference products for cumulative incidence of ADAs (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.58 to 1.22; 8 studies, 3066 participants; low-certainty evidence) or mean maximum serum concentrations (MD 0.42 ng/mL, 95% CI -0.22 to 1.05; subgroup of 3 studies, 100 participants; low-certainty evidence). We judged the overall risk of bias to be low for all studies. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In our review, low to high certainty evidence suggests that there is little to no difference, to date, between the anti-VEGF biosimilars approved for treating neovascular AMD and their reference products in terms of benefits and harms. While anti-VEGF biosimilars may be a viable alternative to reference products, current evidence for their use is based on a limited number of studies - particularly for comparison with aflibercept - with sparse long-term safety data, and infrequent assessment of quality of life outcomes. Our effect estimates and conclusions may be modified once findings have been reported from studies that are currently ongoing, and studies of biosimilar agents that are currently in development. FUNDING Cochrane Eyes and Vision US Project is supported by grant UG1EY020522, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health. Takeshi Hasegawa and Hisashi Noma were supported by Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (Grant numbers: 22H03554, 19K03092, 24K06239). REGISTRATION Protocol available via doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD015804.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomiko Sunaga
- Department of Hospital Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Maeda
- Division of Infection Control Sciences, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Rosella Saulle
- Department of Epidemiology, Lazio Regional Health Service, Rome, Italy
| | - Sueko M Ng
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado - Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Miki Takenaka Sato
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Showa University , Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hasegawa
- Institute of Clinical Epidemiology (iCE), Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Hygiene, Public Health, and Preventive Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Showa University Research Administration Center (SURAC), Showa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Andrew N Mason
- Department of General Education, School of Medicine, Juntendo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisashi Noma
- Department of Data Science, The Institute of Statistical Mathematics, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Erika Ota
- Global Health Nursing, St. Luke's International University, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim JH. Intraocular inflammation as a major adverse event of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: from clinical trials to real-world practice. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2024; 23:659-661. [PMID: 38696228 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2024.2351468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Hui Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kim's Eye Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Zur Bonsen L, Rübsam A, Knecht V, Pleyer U. [Vasculitis of the retina : Clinical aspects, diagnostics, management and treatment]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2024; 121:509-524. [PMID: 38806792 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-024-02050-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Inflammatory changes in the retinal vessels can be attributed to a wide range of etiologies. These include infections, intraocular and systemic autoimmune processes, general diseases and iatrogenic factors. As the endothelium of the retinal capillaries forms the inner blood-retinal barrier, a disruption of this structure is directly associated with consequences for the fluid electrolyte balance of the retina. Clinical sequelae can include leakage of the retinal vessels and macular edema, which are often functionally threatening and significantly reduce the quality of life of patients. As the eye can be affected as an "index organ", a work-up of the patient by the ophthalmologist is of great importance. In the age of "precision medicine", efforts are being made to gain new insights into the pathogenetic mechanisms of vasculitis through "omics" in order to develop innovative treatment concepts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Zur Bonsen
- Universitäts-Augenklinik, Charité, Campus CBF - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Charité, Campus Virchow Klinikum - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Anne Rübsam
- Universitäts-Augenklinik, Charité, Campus CBF - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Charité, Campus Virchow Klinikum - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Vitus Knecht
- Universitäts-Augenklinik, Charité, Campus CBF - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Charité, Campus Virchow Klinikum - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Uwe Pleyer
- Universitäts-Augenklinik, Charité, Campus CBF - Universitätsmedizin Berlin Charité, Campus Virchow Klinikum - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland.
- Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Deutschland.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kimura M, Sakurada Y, Fukuda Y, Matsubara M, Kotoda Y, Kasai Y, Sugiyama A, Kikushima W, Tsuru DV, Kashiwagi K. Association of Polyp Regression after Loading Phase with 12-Month Outcomes of Eyes with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:687. [PMID: 38931354 PMCID: PMC11206239 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We compared 12-month outcomes of eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) with or without complete regression of polyps observed one month after three monthly intravitreal administrations (loading phase) of aflibercept (2.0 mg/0.05 mL) or brolucizumab (6.0 mg/0.05 mL). METHODS All patients underwent indocyanine green angiography at both baseline and 3 months after initial injection and were followed up monthly with an as-needed regimen for up to 12 months. A total of 62 patients with PCV were included: 30 eyes were treated with brolucizumab, and 32 were treated with aflibercept. Eyes with complete regression of polyps (regression group) had significantly smaller maximum polyp diameter and were more frequently treated with brolucizumab than those without complete regression (non-regression) group. RESULTS Best corrected visual acuity was comparable between the two groups at 12 months. Although the 12-month retreatment-free proportion was comparable between the two groups (33.0% versus 27.0%, p = 0.59), a retreatment-free period was significantly longer in the regression group than in the non-regression group (8.3 ± 3.3 versus 6.5 ± 3.6 months, p = 0.022), and the number of additional injections was significantly fewer in the regression group than in the non-regression group (1.2 ± 1.2 versus 3.0 ± 2.6, p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS Complete regression of polyps observed after the initial phase possibly prolongs the retreatment-free period and reduces the number of additional injections irrespective of aflibercept or brolucizumab.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yoichi Sakurada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Shimokato 1110, Chuo 409-3821, Yamanashi, Japan; (M.K.); (Y.F.); (M.M.); (Y.K.); (Y.K.); (A.S.); (W.K.); (D.V.T.); (K.K.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bikbov MM, Kazakbaeva GM, Holz FG, Panda-Jonas S, Gilemzianova LI, Khakimov DA, Jonas JB. Intravitreal panitumumab and myopic macular degeneration. Br J Ophthalmol 2024; 108:859-864. [PMID: 37429701 DOI: 10.1136/bjo-2023-323383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In experimental studies, intravitreally applied antibodies against epidermal growth factor (EGF), EGF family members (amphiregulin, neuregulin-1, betacellulin, epigen, epiregulin) and against the EGF receptor (EGFR) were associated with a reduction in lens-induced axial elongation and decrease in physiological eye elongation in guinea pigs and in non-human primates. Here, we investigated the intraocular tolerability and safety of a fully human monoclonal IgG2-antibody against EGFR, already in clinical use in oncology, as a potential future therapeutic approach for axial elongation in adult eyes with pathological myopia. METHODS The clinical, monocentre, open-label, multiple-dose, phase-1 study included patients with myopic macular degeneration of stage 4, who received intravitreal injections of panitumumab in various doses and in intervals ranging between 2.1 months and 6.3 months. RESULTS The study included 11 patients (age:66.8±6.3 years), receiving panitumumab injections in doses of 0.6 mg (4 eyes; 1×1 injection, 3×2 injections), 1.2 mg (4 eyes; 1×1 injection, 2×2 injections, 1×3 injections) and 1.8 mg (3 eyes; 1×1 injection, 2×2 injections), respectively. None of the participants showed treatment-emergent systemic adverse events or intraocular inflammatory reactions. Best-corrected visual acuity (1.62±0.47 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) vs 1.28±0.59 logMAR; p=0.08) and intraocular pressure (13.8±2.4 mm Hg vs 14.3±2.6 mm Hg; p=0.20) remained unchanged. In nine patients with a follow-up of >3 months (mean:6.7±2.7 months), axial length did not change significantly (30.73±1.03 mm vs 30.77±1.19 mm; p=0.56). CONCLUSIONS In this open-labelled, phase-1 study with a mean follow-up of 6.7 months, panitumumab repeatedly administered intravitreally up to a dose of 1.8 mg was not associated with intraocular or systemic adverse effects. During the study period, axial length remained unchanged. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER DRKS00027302.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Songhomitra Panda-Jonas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the Ruprecht-Karls-University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | | | | | - Jost B Jonas
- Department of Ophthalmology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Maruyama-Inoue M, Chin JY, Kadonosono K. Response to letter to the editor Re: comment on "Comparison of functional and morphologic changes between brolucizumab and faricimab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration". Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024:10.1007/s00417-024-06516-8. [PMID: 38739167 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-024-06516-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Maiko Maruyama-Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-Cho, Minami-Ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 232-0024, Japan.
| | - Jacob Yuhang Chin
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kazuaki Kadonosono
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-Cho, Minami-Ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 232-0024, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kim DJ, Kim DG, Kwak HD, Jang JY, Ji YS, Lee SH, Lee EK, Park KH, Kim JH, Lee JS, Song Y, Kim ST, Shin MH, Kim M, Park SJ, Joo K, Sagong M, Lee CS, Woo SJ. Long-term efficacy and safety of brolucizumab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration: A multicentre retrospective real-world study. Acta Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 38706195 DOI: 10.1111/aos.16699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the long-term efficacy and safety of intravitreal brolucizumab (BRZ) injections in patients with typical neovascular age-related macular degeneration (typical nAMD) and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). METHODS This multicentre retrospective study included 401 eyes of 398 patients with nAMD who received BRZ injection(s), with a follow-up duration of ≥12 months. Changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinal fluid evaluation and central subfield thickness (CST) on optical coherence tomography were assessed. The efficacy of BRZ was compared between typical nAMD and PCV groups. RESULTS Analyses were conducted with 280 eyes of 278 patients with typical nAMD and 121 eyes of 120 patients with PCV (mean age, 71.1 ± 8.6 years). 29 eyes (7.2%) were treatment naïve. The mean follow-up period was 15.3 ± 2.8 months; the mean number of BRZ injections within 1 year was 4.5 ± 1.7. BCVA was maintained during the follow-up period, and CST significantly improved from the first injection month and was maintained for 12 months in both the typical nAMD and PCV groups. The dry macula proportion increased from 2.7% at baseline to 56.1% at 1 month and 42.9% at 12 months. Among the 18 eyes that underwent indocyanine green angiography both before and after treatment, 10 (55.6%) showed polyp regression. Overall, the incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI), retinal vasculitis and occlusive retinal vasculitis was 9.4% (38 eyes), 1.2% (5 eyes) and 0.5% (2 eyes), respectively. IOI occurred from the first to the sixth injections, with an average IOI onset of 28.5 ± 1.4 days. All eyes achieved IOI resolution, although the two eyes with occlusive retinal vasculitis showed a severe visual decline after IOI resolution. CONCLUSION Brolucizumab was effective in maintaining BCVA and managing fluid in eyes with nAMD for up to 1 year, exhibiting a high polyp regression rate. However, the not uncommon incidence of IOI and the severe visual decline caused by the rare occlusive retinal vasculitis following BRZ treatment underscore the importance of careful monitoring and timely management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ju Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hangil Eye Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
- Department of Ophthalmology, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Dong Geun Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inje University College of Medicine, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, South Korea
| | - Hyun Duck Kwak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inje University College of Medicine, Inje University Busan Paik Hospital, Busan, South Korea
| | | | - Yong-Sok Ji
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, South Korea
| | | | - Eun Kyoung Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyu Hyung Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae Hui Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kim's Eye Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | | | - Yumi Song
- Kong Eye Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seong Taeck Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Min Ho Shin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chosun University School of Medicine, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Min Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sang Jun Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Kwangsic Joo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Min Sagong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Christopher Seungkyu Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Se Joon Woo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li Y, Chong R, Fung AT. Association of Occlusive Retinal Vasculitis With Intravitreal Faricimab. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:489-491. [PMID: 38517431 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.0928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
This case report describes a patient with attenuation of retinal arterioles and veins associated with 2 blot hemorrhages and pallor of the inferotemporal retina without emboli.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Robert Chong
- Save Sight Institute, Specialty of Clinical Ophthalmology and Eye Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Adrian T Fung
- Save Sight Institute, Specialty of Clinical Ophthalmology and Eye Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yoshikawa Y, Sakaki Y, Shinoda K, Kataoka K. Safety and Effectiveness of Intravitreal Brolucizumab Injection in Combination With Sub-Tenon's Capsule Triamcinolone Acetonide Injection for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy During the Loading Phase. Cureus 2024; 16:e59481. [PMID: 38832144 PMCID: PMC11145932 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.59481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study evaluated the safety and effectiveness of combining intravitreal brolucizumab injection with sub-tenon's capsule triamcinolone acetonide injection (STTA) during the loading phase for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). METHODS In this retrospective observational study, untreated patients with PCV receiving intravitreal brolucizumab injections with STTA during loading at Saitama Medical University Hospital's Eye Center from May 2021 to June 2022 were analyzed. Complete regression rates of polypoidal lesions were assessed using indocyanine green angiography 12 weeks post-treatment initiation. RESULTS Nineteen patients (19 eyes) participated. Best-corrected visual acuity significantly improved at eight weeks compared to baseline. No significant intraocular pressure increases occurred throughout the loading phase, while central foveal and choroidal thickness significantly reduced at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Subretinal fluid was present in all patients before treatment, rapidly resolving post-intravitreal brolucizumab injections and STTA, with residual rates of 36.8% (seven eyes) and 5.3% (one eye) at four and 12 weeks, respectively. Intraocular inflammation did not occur during the loading phase, and the complete regression rate of polypoidal lesions was 89.5% (17 eyes). CONCLUSIONS Combining intravitreal brolucizumab injection with STTA during the loading phase may be one treatment option for PCV management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu Sakaki
- Ophthalmology, Kozawa Eye Hospital and Diabetes Center, Ibaraki, JPN
| | - Kei Shinoda
- Opthalmology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, JPN
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Elhamaky TR. Comparison between intravitreal brolucizumab and aflibercept in the treatment-naive central involved diabetic macular edema: One-year real-life case series. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024; 34:797-802. [PMID: 37817540 DOI: 10.1177/11206721231207459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intravitreal brolucizumab (IVB) and intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections in the management of naive central involved diabetic macular edema (CIDME). METHODS This study included 45 treatment-naive eyes with CIDME. A complete ophthalmic examination, including BCVA and SD-OCT was performed. Patients were randomized to (IVB) or (IVA) groups. All participants received a loading phase of three consecutive intravitreal injections, then followed by a personalized treat and extend (T&E) regimen. RESULTS At 12-month follow-up, the mean numbers of injections in IVA and IVB groups were 7.25 ± 0.53 and 6.3 ± 0.45, respectively (P < 0.0001). The IVA group showed a significant increase of the mean BCVA from 0.66 ± 0.15 logMAR (50.9 ± 7.7 letters) to 0.41 ± 0.19 logMAR (63.7 ± 10.8 letters). Mean CFT decreased significantly from 441.2 ± 35.7 μm to 281.3 ± 18.4 μm. The IVB group showed a significant increase of mean BCVA from 0.65 ± 0.16 logMAR (52.1 ± 7.9 letters) to 0.39 ± 0.17 logMAR (65.3 ± 8.7 letters). Mean CFT decreased significantly from 437.2 ± 41.9 μm to 275.5 ± 21.7 μm.No significant difference between both groups in terms of the vision improvement and the reduction of CFT was reported, whereas a statistical difference was observed in terms of intravitreal injections (IVI) numbers. No ocular complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS This case series highlights the effectiveness of both brolucizumab and aflibercept in the treatment of CIDME with a lower frequency of injection in brolucizumab group lowering the burden of IVI in this cohort.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tarek Roshdy Elhamaky
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seha Emirates Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Omar A, Williams RG, Whelan J, Noble J, Brent MH, Giunta M, Olivier S, Lhor M. Diabetic Disease of the Eye in Canada: Consensus Statements from a Retina Specialist Working Group. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:1071-1102. [PMID: 38526804 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00923-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in systemic care, diabetic disease of the eye (DDE) remains the leading cause of blindness worldwide. There is a critical gap of up-to-date, evidence-based guidance for ophthalmologists in Canada that includes evidence from recent randomized controlled trials. Previous guidance has not always given special consideration to applying treatments and managing DDE in the context of the healthcare system. This consensus statement aims to assist practitioners in the field by providing a spectrum of acceptable opinions on DDE treatment and management from recognized experts in the field. In compiling evidence and generating consensus, a working group of retinal specialists in Canada addressed clinical questions surrounding the four themes of disease, patient, management, and collaboration. The working group reviewed literature representing the highest level of evidence on DDE and shared their opinions on topics surrounding the epidemiology and pathophysiology of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema; diagnosis and monitoring; considerations around diabetes medication use; strategic considerations for management given systemic comorbidities, ocular comorbidities, and pregnancy; treatment goals and modalities for diabetic macular edema, non-proliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy, and retinal detachment; and interdisciplinary collaboration. Ultimately, this work highlighted that the retinal examination in DDE not only informs the treating ophthalmologist but can serve as a global index for disease progression across many tissues of the body. It highlighted further that DDE can be treated regardless of diabetic control, that a systemic approach to patient care will result in the best health outcomes, and prevention of visual complications requires a multidisciplinary management approach. Ophthalmologists must tailor their clinical approach to the needs and circumstances of individual patients and work within the realities of their healthcare setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amer Omar
- Medical Retina Institute of Montreal, 2170 René-Lévesque Blvd Ouest, Bureau 101, Montréal, QC, H3H 2T8, Canada.
| | - R Geoff Williams
- Calgary Retina Consultants, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - James Whelan
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University, St. John's, NF, Canada
| | - Jason Noble
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michael H Brent
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Michel Giunta
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Sébastien Olivier
- Centre Universitaire d'ophtalmologie, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Mustapha Lhor
- Medical and Scientific Affairs Ophthalmology, Bayer Inc., Mississauga, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abu Serhan H, Taha MJJ, Abuawwad MT, Abdelaal A, Irshaidat S, Abu Serhan L, Abu Salim QF, Awamleh N, Abdelazeem B, Elnahry AG. Safety and Efficacy of Brolucizumab in the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema and Diabetic Retinopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Semin Ophthalmol 2024; 39:251-260. [PMID: 37849309 DOI: 10.1080/08820538.2023.2271095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the efficacy and safety of brolucizumab in diabetic macular edema (DME) and diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, an electronic search was done to acquire all articles describing brolucizumab use in patients with DME and DR. The review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022382625). Collected articles were filtered through two stages by independent reviewers. Data were extracted from the included articles and then analyzed accordingly. RESULTS Brolucizumab induced significant improvement in best-corrected visual acuity and was either better or non-inferior to other types of anti-VEGF (MD -0.64 mu, 95% CI [-1.15, -0.13], P = .01); the same observation was noted with regards to central subfield macular thickness (CSMT) (MD -138.6 mu, 95% CI [-151.9, -125.3], P = .00001). Brolucizumab was reported to be relatively safe for use in diabetic patients, with few adverse events observed, with a higher frequency of adverse events in relation to the 3 mg dose compared to the 6 mg dose. CONCLUSION Brolucizumab is a new drug that has potential advantages in efficacy over other anti-VEGF agents in the treatment of DME and DR. It showed significant improvement in BCVA and CSMT with the possibility of a lower dosing schedule compared to other agents. Although observed in low frequency, sight-threatening adverse effects appear to occur more frequently compared to other anti-VEGF agents. The main observed adverse event was retinal vasculitis which was seen more commonly with the 3 mg dose versus the 6 mg dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hashem Abu Serhan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hamad Medical Corporations, Doha, Qatar
| | | | | | - Abdelaziz Abdelaal
- Harvard Medical School, Postgraduate Medical Education, Boston, USA
- Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Sara Irshaidat
- Department of Pediatrics, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan
| | | | | | - Nour Awamleh
- School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Basel Abdelazeem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Ayman G Elnahry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zarbin MA, MacCumber MW, Karcher H, Adiguzel E, Mayhook A, LaPrise A, Bilano VL, Igwe F, Ip MS, Wykoff CC. Real-World Safety Outcomes with Brolucizumab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Findings from the IRIS® Registry. Ophthalmol Ther 2024; 13:1357-1368. [PMID: 38520643 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-024-00920-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To assess real-world safety outcomes for adults with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with brolucizumab from the US-based IRIS® (Intelligent Research in Sight) Registry. METHODS In this retrospective study, 18,312 eyes (15,998 patients) treated with ≥ 1 intravitreal brolucizumab injections between 8 October 2019 (US launch date for brolucizumab) and 7 October 2021 were followed up for ≤ 2 years after first injection (index date). The study assessed the predefined incident ocular adverse events of intraocular inflammation (IOI), retinal vasculitis (RV), and retinal vascular occlusion (RO). RESULTS Overall, 614/18,312 eyes (3.4%) experienced any IOI, RV, and/or RO event. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) time to an event was 84 (42-167) days; 77.4% of events (475/614) occurred within 6 months after index date. Median (IQR) number of brolucizumab injections before an event was 2 (1-4). For eyes with an adverse event and visual acuity (VA) data (n = 406), median (IQR) change in Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters from pre-event VA was 0 (- 7 to + 5) at the 6-month follow-up; 50 eyes (12.3%) had a VA loss of 10 or more ETDRS letters. Risk of an event (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]) was decreased in eyes from male patients (0.61 [0.53-0.71]), from older patients (0.83 [0.76-0.90]), from treatment-naive patients (0.51 [0.38-0.69]), and from patients who started brolucizumab in the second year after launch (0.68 [0.53-0.86] vs. first year). CONCLUSION In this large real-world brolucizumab safety study, 3.4% of eyes experienced an IOI, RV, and/or RO event. Among eyes that experienced an adverse event for which VA data were available, median ETDRS vision change was 0 letters (IQR - 7 to + 5).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Zarbin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers University, 90 Bergen Street, Room 6155, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA.
| | - Mathew W MacCumber
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Illinois Retina Associates, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Eser Adiguzel
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Michael S Ip
- Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Charles C Wykoff
- Retina Consultants of Texas, Houston, TX, USA
- Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hirono K, Maruyama-Inoue M, Yanagi Y, Kadonosono K. Visual outcomes of intraocular inflammation after brolucizumab injection in Japanese patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302295. [PMID: 38635732 PMCID: PMC11025969 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates the visual outcomes of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients who developed intraocular inflammation (IOI) after intravitreal brolucizumab injection (IVBr). METHODS We studied 285 eyes of 279 cases diagnosed with nAMD and focused on 18 eyes (6.3%) of 17 cases which developed IOI after IVBr. IVBr was performed either on the initial treatment or for switching of other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents during January 2020 to December 2021. We evaluated clinical features and the course of treatment of a 6-month follow-up after IOI occurred. RESULTS Of 17 cases, 9 cases were male, 8 cases were female. Baseline logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution(logMAR) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.36, BCVA before IOI occurred was 0.30, and BCVA when IOI occurred was 0.43. 16 eyes (88.9%) had symptoms such as visual loss or floaters when IOI occurred. On the other hand, the remaining 2 eyes (11.1%) had no symptoms. 11 eyes (61.1%) had only IOI, while the remaining 7 eyes (38.9%) had IOI and perivascular sheathing. Steroid sub-tenon injection was performed on 1 eye (5.6%), steroid eye drops were used in 11 eyes (61.1%), and 6 eyes (33.3%) were followed-up without treatment. Neovascular AMD recurred in 16 eyes (88.9%) after IOI occurred and were treated with aflibercept. VA at 3 and 6 months after IOI occurred were significantly improved to 0.34 and 0.30, respectively (P = 0.09 at 3 months and P = 0.02 at 6 months). The symptoms of patients were improved in all cases. We were able to stop steroid treatment in all cases. CONCLUSIONS IOI occurred in 6.3% of nAMD patients after IVBr treatment. All of which showed significant improvement from logMAR of 0.43 to 0.30 with steroid treatment or without any treatment. We should consider the possibility of IOI after IVBr as a complication, however, they have a relatively good prognosis if treated at an early stage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazushi Hirono
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Maiko Maruyama-Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yasuo Yanagi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Kadonosono
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Weng CC, Chi SC, Lin TC, Huang YM, Chou YB, Hwang DK, Chen SJ. Brolucizumab in recalcitrant neovascular age-related macular degeneration-real-world data in Chinese population. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301096. [PMID: 38564612 PMCID: PMC10986944 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
This retrospective study aimed to determine the short-term efficacy and safety of brolucizumab treatment for recalcitrant neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in a real-world setting in Taiwan. Recalcitrant nAMD patients who were treated with brolucizumab from November 2021 to August 2022 at Taipei Veterans General Hospital were included. Patients were followed for 3 months after switching to brolucizumab. The primary outcomes were changes in mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) from baseline to the third month. The secondary outcomes included the incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI), proportion of patients with subretinal and intraretinal fluid (SRF and IRF), and change in pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height from baseline to the third month. The significance level was considered as p < .05 in all tests. A total of 38 patients (40 eyes) with a mean (±SD) age of 76.3 (±10.84) years were included. The baseline BCVA was 0.92±0.64 logMAR, and the CRT and PED height were 329.0±171.18 and 189.8±114.94 um, respectively. The patients had a significant reduction in CRT and resolution of IRF and SRF from baseline to the third month. There were numerical improvements in mean BCVA and PED height, but they were not significant. The percentages of achieving at least 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 logMAR (equivalent to 5, 10, 15 ETDRS letters) visual gain were 50%, 37.5%, and 30%, respectively, during the first 3 months of follow-up. No IOI occurred in these patients. This study demonstrated that brolucizumab had good short-term structural and functional efficacy in recalcitrant nAMD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Chi Weng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Chu Chi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Tai-Chi Lin
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Ming Huang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Bai Chou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - De-Kuang Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kumar A, Ferro Desideri L, Ting MYL, Anguita R. Perspectives on the currently available pharmacotherapy for wet macular degeneration. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2024; 25:755-767. [PMID: 38738427 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2024.2354921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Wet age-related macular degeneration (w-AMD) is a leading cause of visual impairment globally, with its prevalence expected to rise alongside increasing life expectancy. The current standard treatment involves frequent intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents, which although revolutionary, pose significant burdens on both patients and healthcare services. AREAS COVERED This review explores current and emerging pharmaceutical treatments for w-AMD, focusing on their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and safety. Promising developments include extending treatment intervals with newer anti-VEGF agents like brolucizumab and faricimab, biosimilars offering cost-effective options, and exploring innovative drug delivery methods such as subretinal gene therapy. Combination therapies, gene therapies, and novel agents like KSI-301 and OPT-302 show potential for improving treatment outcomes and reducing treatment burden. EXPERT OPINION While current treatments for w-AMD have significantly advanced with the advent of anti-VEGF therapies, their limitations in terms of treatment burden and incomplete responses have spurred research into diverse alternative approaches. These innovative strategies offer hope for improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens, suggesting a promising future for w-AMD management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aneeta Kumar
- Royal Free London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Lorenzo Ferro Desideri
- Department of Ophthalmology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Photographic Reading Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Rodrigo Anguita
- Bern Photographic Reading Center, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wykoff CC, Garweg JG, Regillo C, Souied E, Wolf S, Dhoot DS, Agostini HT, Chang A, Laude A, Wachtlin J, Kovacic L, Wang L, Wang Y, Bouillaud E, Brown DM. KESTREL and KITE Phase 3 Studies: 100-Week Results With Brolucizumab in Patients With Diabetic Macular Edema. Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 260:70-83. [PMID: 37460036 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2023.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the 100-week outcomes from the KESTREL and KITE trials. DESIGN Two phase 3, double-masked, active-controlled, randomized trials. METHODS Patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) were randomized 1:1:1 to brolucizumab 3 mg/6 mg (BRO3/BRO6) or aflibercept 2 mg (AFL) in KESTREL (N = 566) or 1:1 to BRO6 or AFL in KITE (N = 360). BRO3/BRO6 arms received 5 loading doses every 6 weeks (q6w) followed by q12w dosing, with an option to adjust to q8w at predefined disease activity assessment visits. In KITE, at week 72, based on the disease stability assessment, treatment intervals could be extended by 4 weeks in the BRO6 arm. AFL arms received 5 monthly loading doses followed by fixed q8w dosing. RESULTS At week 100, change from baseline in BCVA (letters) was +8.8 for BRO6 and +10.6 for AFL in KESTREL; and +10.9 for BRO6 and +8.4 for AFL in KITE. In both studies, fewer BRO6 subjects had intraretinal fluid and/or subretinal fluid than AFL subjects. Results were achieved with 32.9% (KESTREL) and 47.5% (KITE) of BRO6 subjects maintained on q12w and q12w/q16w dosing, respectively. Intraocular inflammation rates for BRO6 vs AFL were 4.2% vs 1.1% (KESTREL) and 2.2% vs 1.7% (KITE), of which retinal vasculitis rates were 0.5% vs 0% in KESTREL, with no cases in KITE. Retinal vascular occlusion rates were 1.6% vs 0.5% (KESTREL) and 0.6% in both treatment arms in KITE. CONCLUSIONS Results show the long-term efficacy and durability of brolucizumab in improving visual and anatomical outcomes in DME; the overall safety profile of brolucizumab remained unchanged through year 2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles C Wykoff
- From the Retina Consultants of Texas (C.C.W., D.M.B.), Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - Justus G Garweg
- Berner Augenklinik and Swiss Eye Institute (J.G.G.), Bern, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology (J.G.G., S.W.), Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Carl Regillo
- Retina Service (C.R.), Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eric Souied
- Department of Ophthalmology (E.S.), Hôpital Intercommunal de Creteil, Créteil, France
| | - Sebastian Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology (J.G.G., S.W.), Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Bern Photographic Reading Center (S.W.), Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dilsher S Dhoot
- California Retina Consultants (D.S.D.), Santa Barbara, California, USA
| | - Hansjuergen T Agostini
- Department of Ophthalmology (H.T.A.), Medical Faculty, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andrew Chang
- Sydney Retina Clinic (A.C.), Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Augustinus Laude
- National Healthcare Group Eye Institute (A.L.), Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (A.L.), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Joachim Wachtlin
- Sankt Gertrauden Hospital (J.W.), Berlin, Germany; MHB Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg (J.W.), Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Lidija Kovacic
- Novartis Pharma A.G. (L.W., Y.W., E.B.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lixin Wang
- Novartis Pharma A.G. (L.W., Y.W., E.B.), Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ying Wang
- Novartis Pharma A.G. (L.W., Y.W., E.B.), Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - David M Brown
- From the Retina Consultants of Texas (C.C.W., D.M.B.), Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Inoda S, Takahashi H, Maruyama-Inoue M, Ikeda S, Sekiryu T, Itagaki K, Matsumoto H, Mukai R, Nagai Y, Ohnaka M, Kusuhara S, Miki A, Okada AA, Nakayama M, Nishiguchi KM, Takeuchi J, Mori R, Tanaka K, Honda S, Kohno T, Koizumi H, Miyara Y, Inoue Y, Takana H, Iida T, Maruko I, Hayashi A, Ueda-Consolvo T, Yanagi Y. INCIDENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF INTRAOCULAR INFLAMMATION AFTER BROLUCIZUMAB TREATMENT IN JAPAN: A Multicenter Age-Related Macular Degeneration Study. Retina 2024; 44:714-722. [PMID: 38016089 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000004009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI) and its risk factors following intravitreal injections of brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Japan. METHODS A total of 1,351 Japanese consecutive patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration who were treated with brolucizumab from May 2020 to May 2022 at 14 institutions were examined. The variables analyzed were the number of brolucizumab injections, time to onset of IOI, and risk factors. RESULTS Intraocular inflammation developed in 152 eyes (11.3%). Retinal vasculitis and/or retinal occlusion occurred in 53 eyes (3.9%). Ninety-four patients received bilaterally, bilateral IOI occurred in five patients (5.3%). Sixteen eyes (1.2%) had irreversible visual acuity loss and nine eyes (0.67%) had visual loss of three lines or more due to retinal vasculitis and/or retinal occlusion. The cumulative IOI incidence was 4.5%, 10.3%, and 12.2% at 30, 180, and 365 days (1-year), respectively. History of IOI (including retinal vasculitis) and/or retinal occlusion (odds ratio [OR], 5.41; P = 0.0075) and female sex (OR, 1.99; P = 0.0004) were significantly associated with IOI onset. CONCLUSION The 1-year cumulative incidence of IOI in Japanese neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients treated with brolucizumab was 12.2%. History of IOI (including retinal vasculitis) and/or retinal occlusion and female sex were significant risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Inoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hidenori Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Maiko Maruyama-Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Shoko Ikeda
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Tetsuju Sekiryu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kanako Itagaki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima-shi, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Matsumoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi-shi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Ryo Mukai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi-shi, Gunma, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Nagai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masayuki Ohnaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Sentaro Kusuhara
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Akiko Miki
- Division of Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Annabelle A Okada
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makiko Nakayama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyorin University, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji M Nishiguchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nagoya University, Nagoya-shi, Aichi, Japan
| | - Jun Takeuchi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nagoya University, Nagoya-shi, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryusaburo Mori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nihon University Hospital, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Koji Tanaka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nihon University Hospital, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeru Honda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takeya Kohno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka-shi, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hideki Koizumi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Japan
| | - Yasunori Miyara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Japan
| | - Yuji Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Teikyo University, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nishikasai Inouye Eye Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takana
- Department of Ophthalmology, Nishikasai Inouye Eye Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Iida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Japan ; and
| | - Ichiro Maruko
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Japan ; and
| | - Atsushi Hayashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Toyama, Toyama-shi, Toyama, Japan
| | | | - Yasuo Yanagi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gabrielle PH, Creuzot-Garcher C. Can high-dose aflibercept satisfy unmet treatment needs in diabetic macular oedema? Lancet 2024; 403:1111-1113. [PMID: 38461837 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)02760-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Henry Gabrielle
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Eye and Nutrition Research Group, CSGA, UMR 1324 INRA, 6265 CNRS, Burgundy University, Dijon, France; Save Sight Institute, Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine Creuzot-Garcher
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, France; Eye and Nutrition Research Group, CSGA, UMR 1324 INRA, 6265 CNRS, Burgundy University, Dijon, France.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lanzetta P, Korobelnik JF, Heier JS, Leal S, Holz FG, Clark WL, Eichenbaum D, Iida T, Xiaodong S, Berliner AJ, Schulze A, Schmelter T, Schmidt-Ott U, Zhang X, Vitti R, Chu KW, Reed K, Rao R, Bhore R, Cheng Y, Sun W, Hirshberg B, Yancopoulos GD, Wong TY. Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (PULSAR): 48-week results from a randomised, double-masked, non-inferiority, phase 3 trial. Lancet 2024; 403:1141-1152. [PMID: 38461841 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)00063-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intravitreal aflibercept 8 mg could improve treatment outcomes and provide sustained disease control in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), with extended dosing compared with aflibercept 2 mg. METHODS PULSAR is a phase 3, randomised, three-group, double-masked, non-inferiority, 96-week trial conducted across 223 sites worldwide. Adults with nAMD were randomised 1:1:1 to aflibercept 8 mg every 12 weeks (8q12), aflibercept 8 mg every 16 weeks (8q16), or aflibercept 2 mg every 8 weeks (2q8), following three initial monthly doses in all groups. From week 16, patients in the aflibercept 8 mg groups had their dosing interval shortened if pre-specified dose regimen modification criteria denoting disease activity were met. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at week 48. All patients with at least one dose of study treatment were included in the efficacy and safety analyses. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04423718) and is ongoing. FINDINGS Of 1011 patients randomised to aflibercept 8q12 (n=336), 8q16 (n=338), or 2q8 (n=337) between Aug 11, 2020, and July 30, 2021, 1009 patients received study treatment (aflibercept 8q12 n=335; aflibercept 8q16 n=338; and aflibercept 2q8 n=336). Aflibercept 8q12 and 8q16 showed non-inferior BCVA gains versus aflibercept 2q8 (mean BCVA change from baseline +6·7 [SD 12·6] and +6·2 [11·7] vs +7·6 [12·2] letters). The least squares mean differences between aflibercept 8q12 versus 2q8 and 8q16 versus 2q8, respectively, were -0·97 (95% CI -2·87 to 0·92) and -1·14 (-2·97 to 0·69) letters (non-inferiority margin at 4 letters). The incidence of ocular adverse events in the study eye was similar across groups (aflibercept 8q12 n=129 [39%]; aflibercept 8q16 n=127 [38%]; and aflibercept 2q8 n=130 [39%]). INTERPRETATION Aflibercept 8 mg showed efficacy and safety with extended dosing intervals, which has the potential to improve the management of patients with nAMD. FUNDING Bayer AG and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Lanzetta
- Department of Medicine-Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy; Istituto Europeo di Microchirurgia Oculare-IEMO, Udine, Italy
| | - Jean-François Korobelnik
- Service d'Ophtalmologie, CHU Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Bordeaux Population Health Research Center, INSERM, UMR1219, F-33000, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | | | | | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | | | - Tomohiro Iida
- Tokyo Women's Medical University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xin Zhang
- Bayer Consumer Care AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Karen W Chu
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Rohini Rao
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Rafia Bhore
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Wei Sun
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Tien Y Wong
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Centre, Singapore; Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Boscia F, Veritti D, Iaculli C, Lattanzio R, Freda S, Piergentili B, Varano M. Management of treatment-naïve diabetic macular edema patients: Review of real-world clinical data. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024:11206721241237069. [PMID: 38462923 DOI: 10.1177/11206721241237069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The high prevalence of Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a real global health problem. Its complex pathophysiology involves different pathways. Over the last decade, the introduction of intravitreal treatments has dramatically changed the management and prognosis of DME. Among the different treatment options, inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) and intravitreal steroids implants represent the first-line therapy of DME. We conducted a review of electronic databases to compile the available evidence about the clinical management of DME in a clinical setting, with a special focus on treatment-naïve patients. Anti-VEGF therapies represent a valuable option for treating DME patients. However, many patients do not respond properly to this treatment and, due to its administration regimen, many patients receive suboptimal treatment in real life. Current evidence demonstrated that in patients with DME, DEX-i improved significantly both anatomic and visual outcomes. Besides eyes with insufficient anti-VEGF respond or recalcitrant DME cases, DEX-i can be effectively and safely used in treatment-naïve DME patients as first line therapy. DEX-i may be considered first line therapy in different clinical scenarios, such as DME eyes with a greater inflammatory component, patients with cardiovascular events, vitrectomized eyes, or those requiring cataract surgery. In conclusion, there are still many points for improvement pending in the clinical management of the patient with DME. Since DME treatment must follow a patient-tailored approach, selecting the best therapeutic approach for each patient requires a good understanding of the pathophysiology of DME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Boscia
- Department of Translational Medicine and Neurosciences (DiBraiN), University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Daniele Veritti
- Department of Medicine - Ophthalmology, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Cristiana Iaculli
- Department of Ophthalmology, Policlinico Riuniti Di Foggia, University of Foggia, 71122, Foggia, Italy
| | - Rosangela Lattanzio
- Department of Ophthalmology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Freda
- AbbVie S.r.l., SR 148 Pontina, 04011, Campoverde, LT
| | | | - Monica Varano
- Ophthalmology Department, IRCCS - Fondazione Bietti, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chadoulos N, Dastiridou A, Mitsios A, Tsinopoulos I, Kalogeropoulos C, Androudi S. Laser flare photometry in eyes receiving brolucizumab intravitreal injections for age related macular degeneration. Eur J Ophthalmol 2024:11206721241236917. [PMID: 38449080 DOI: 10.1177/11206721241236917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To measure aqueous flare levels in treatment naïve eyes suffering from wet age- related macular degeneration (wAMD) treated with intravitreal brolucizumab. METHODS Patients with treatment naïve wAMD in one eye were prospectively enrolled. Flare levels were measured with laser flare photometry at baseline, 1 day and 1 month after each of the 3 monthly injections during the loading phase. RESULTS Twenty-two eyes from 22 patients aged 76.7 ± 6.0 years were enrolled. Flare values were 10.6 ± 3.7 photons/msec at baseline and 12.6 ± 5.8 photons/msec at the last follow up visit, 1 month after the third injection (p = 0.289, repeated measures ANOVA). The mean change in flare after the first injection was 4.2 ± 3.6. photons/msec, 6.6 ± 8.9 photons/msec after the 2nd and 8.6 ± 20.8 photons/msec after the 3rd injection (p = 0.640, repeated measures ANOVA). No patient had clinical signs of intraocular inflammation. CONCLUSIONS Eyes receiving brolucizumab injections for wAMD showed similar flare at baseline, during and 1 month after completion of three-monthly intravitreal injections. There was no evidence of subclinical inflammation during the loading phase of brolucizumab based on laser flare photometry measurements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Dastiridou
- Ophthalmology Department, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Andreas Mitsios
- Ophthalmology Department, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsinopoulos
- Ophthalmology Department, Papageorgiou Hospital, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Sofia Androudi
- Ophthalmology Department, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Takayama T, Inoda S, Takahashi H, Tsukii R, Yoshida H, Kasuya Y, Nagaoka K, Takahashi R, Arai Y, Kawashima H. Scleritis following intravitreal brolucizumab injection: a case series. J Med Case Rep 2024; 18:80. [PMID: 38419100 PMCID: PMC10902930 DOI: 10.1186/s13256-024-04402-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study reports the first cases of scleritis following intravitreal brolucizumab (IVBr) injection for nAMD, emphasizing the need to be aware of the possibility of scleritis following IVBr injections. CASE PRESENTATION Case 1. A 74-year-old Japanese man with nAMD complained of conjunctivitis and decreased vision in the right eye 8 days after his eighth IVBr injection. Examination revealed scleritis without anterior inflammation. Topical 0.1% betamethasone and 0.3% gatifloxacin eye drops were started. The scleritis worsened in the following 2 weeks and became painful. He underwent sub-Tenon's capsule triamcinolone acetonide (STTA) injection. Two days later, he returned with a complaint of severe vision loss. Fundus examination revealed retinal artery occlusion, vasculitis, and vitreous opacity in the right eye. Vitreous surgery was performed. CASE 2 An 85-year-old Japanese woman with nAMD in the right eye complained of reddening of the eye 27 days after her fifth IVBr injection. Examination showed conjunctivitis and scleritis without anterior inflammation in the right eye. She was started on 0.1% fluorometholone and 0.5% levofloxacin hydrate eye drops. The scleritis worsened in the following 3 weeks. Her treatment was switched to 0.1% betamethasone eye drops. One month later, the scleritis had improved and a sixth IVBr injection was administered. There was no worsening of the scleritis at that time. However, 1 month after a seventh IVBr injection, she complained of severe hyperemia and decreased vision. Fundus examination revealed vitreous opacification. She underwent STTA, and the vitreous opacity improved in 24 days. Case 3. A 57-year-old Japanese man with nAMD complained of pain and decreased vision in the right eye 21 days after a fourth IVBr injection. Examination revealed scleritis with high intraocular pressure but no anterior chamber or fundus inflammation. STTA and topical eye drops were performed. One month later, scleritis improved but visual acuity didn't due to progression of nAMD. CONCLUSIONS Intraocular inflammation following IVBr injection may progress to the posterior segment. Scleritis can occur after IVBr injection, and topical eye drops alone may not be sufficient for initial treatment. Clinicians should consider the possibility of scleritis in patients with worsening inflammation after IVBr injection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Takayama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Satoru Inoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan.
| | - Hidenori Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Rika Tsukii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hana Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Yuka Kasuya
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Kosuke Nagaoka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Ryota Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Yusuke Arai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Kawashima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-Shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Xiong X, Zhang X, Li X, Huang T. Adverse events associated with brolucizumab: a disproportionality analysis of the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS). Expert Opin Drug Saf 2024:1-6. [PMID: 38404234 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2024.2322712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The safety information of brolucizumab primarily comes from clinical trials experience. This study aimed to explore the ocular and systemic adverse events (AEs) associated with brolucizumab among real-world patients through data mining the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. METHODS AE reports submitted to the FAERS database between October 2019 and March 2023 were extracted. The reporting odds ratio was used to evaluate AE signals associated with brolucizumab. RESULTS There were 4,380,839 AE reports extracted from the FAERS database, and 3,313 of which were with brolucizumab as primary suspected. A total of 150 ocular AE signals were identified. Ninety-nine were known ocular AEs listed in brolucizumab' label, primarily including vision-related AEs, intraocular infections, and retinal disorders. Fifty-one were unexpected ocular AE signals, including keratic precipitates, retinal perivascular sheathing, dry eye, glaucoma, etc. Meanwhile, several serious systemic AE signals, including arterial thromboembolic events and rhinorrhea, were also identified. CONCLUSIONS Several unexpected ocular and systemic AE signals associated with brolucizumab were identified through data mining of the FAERS database.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Xiong
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxia Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Taomin Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Tanaka A, Hata M, Tsuchikawa M, Ueda-Arakawa NUA, Tamura H, Miyata M, Takahashi A, Kido A, Muraoka Y, Miyake M, Ooto S, Tsujikawa A. Short-Term Outcomes of 3 Monthly intravitreal Faricimab On Different Subtypes of Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Clin Ophthalmol 2024; 18:507-516. [PMID: 38405104 PMCID: PMC10893793 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s448507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the efficacy and safety of faricimab injections for treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD) patients, including subtypes and pachychoroid phenotypes, and identify predictive factors for visual outcomes. Methods nvAMD patients were prospectively recruited, receiving three monthly faricimab (6 mg) injections. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) two months after the last injection (month 4) was compared between subtypes, and between pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV) and non-PNV eyes. Regression analysis determined factors influencing month 4 BCVA. Results The study involved 23 patients (12 typical AMD [tAMD], 10 polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy [PCV], 1 retinal angiomatous proliferation [RAP]). Eleven exhibited PNV phenotype. Significant BCVA (P = 4.9 × 10-4) and central retinal thickness (CRT) (P = 1.3 × 10-5) improvements were observed post-faricimab treatment. The therapy demonstrated favourable results for both tAMD and PCV eyes, and non-PNV and PNV eyes. Faricimab achieved dry macula in 77.3% of eyes, with subretinal fluid resolution in most cases, although intraretinal fluid (IRF) often persisted. Multivariable analysis identified external limiting membrane (ELM) presence and IRF as BCVA contributors at month 4. Conclusion Faricimab demonstrated significant effectiveness and safety in treatment-naïve nvAMD patients, particularly for PCV and PNV eyes. ELM presence and IRF is predictive of visual outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asako Tanaka
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masayuki Hata
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Memiri Tsuchikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Hiroshi Tamura
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Manabu Miyata
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ayako Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ai Kido
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuki Muraoka
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Miyake
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Sotaro Ooto
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akitaka Tsujikawa
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Maruyama-Inoue M, Yanagi Y, Inoue T, Kadonosono K. Comparison of functional and morphologic changes between brolucizumab and faricimab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024; 262:589-599. [PMID: 37750953 PMCID: PMC10844403 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-023-06241-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to compare functional and morphologic changes in the loading phase between patients with treatment-naïve macular neovascularization (MNV) due to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated with either intravitreal brolucizumab (IVBr) or intravitreal faricimab (IVF) injections in a clinical setting. METHODS We retrospectively studied 92 consecutive eyes of 90 patients with neovascular nAMD who were scheduled to receive IVBr (42 eyes of 41 patients) or IVF (50 eyes of 49 patients) injections between October 2021 and December 2022. All patients received three consecutive monthly injections of 6.0 mg/0.05 mL brolucizumab or 6.0 mg/0.05 mL faricimab. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), and central choroidal thickness (CCT) at baseline and 1, 2, and 4 months after the initial treatment were measured and compared between the groups. RESULTS Thirty-seven eyes in IVBr group and forty-seven eyes in IVF group who finished treatments in the loading phase were assessed at the follow-up examination. The BCVA, CFT, and CCT changed significantly after loading phase in both groups (P < 0.05 for both comparisons). The IVBr group had more rapid improvement of the BCVA (P = 0.037) at 1 month than the IVF group, but there was no difference at 4 months (P = 0.367). The CFT and CCT decreases tended to be greater in the IVBr group than in the IVF group throughout the follow-up period. Of the five eyes excluded from the IVBr group, one eye (2.4%) each had intraocular inflammation (IOI) and was a non-responder, and two eyes (4.8%) had retinal pigment epithelial tears after treatment. Of the three eyes excluded from the IVF group, two eyes (4.0%) did not respond to the treatment. CONCLUSIONS Both IVBr and IVF injections were well-tolerated and improved the VA in treatment-naïve patients with MNV due to nAMD after a loading phase, although IVBr caused a trend toward faster visual improvements in the BCVA. The IVBr group also had greater reductions of the CFT and CCT than the IVF group. However, the potential for adverse events and no response to treatment with each drug are considerations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maiko Maruyama-Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-cho, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Japan.
| | - Yasuo Yanagi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-cho, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Inoue
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-cho, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuaki Kadonosono
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-technology, Yokohama City University Medical Center, 4-57 Urafune-cho, Minami-ku, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Kamao H, Mitsui E, Date Y, Goto K, Mizukawa K, Miki A. The Effect of a Loading Dose Regimen in the Switch to Brolucizumab for Patients with Aflibercept-Resistant nAMD. J Ophthalmol 2024; 2024:3673930. [PMID: 38322501 PMCID: PMC10846919 DOI: 10.1155/2024/3673930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the one-year outcomes of switching to brolucizumab with and without a loading dose regimen (three monthly injections) in eyes with aflibercept-resistant neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). Methods We retrospectively studied nAMD patients who had retinal exudate under bimonthly injections of aflibercept and were switched to brolucizumab from aflibercept. Patients were grouped into intravitreal brolucizumab injection (IVBr) with a loading dose regimen (loading group) and without a loading dose regimen (nonloading group). We assessed the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT) at the fovea, subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), IVBr status (number of injections and last injection interval), and retinal exudate status on optical coherence tomography. Results Overall, 52 eyes received ≥1 IVBr; 26 eyes received ≥3 IVBr with 12-month follow-up. A total of 13 eyes in the loading group and 13 eyes in the nonloading group were reviewed. One year after switching, BCVA changed from 0.28 ± 0.25 to 0.19 ± 0.28 in the loading group (P=0.28) and from 0.25 ± 0.20 to 0.23 ± 0.25 in the nonloading group (P=0.92). The mean CRT decreased from 263.6 ± 40.7 µm to 221.7 ± 54.6 µm in the loading group (P=0.03), while it only changed from 244.9 ± 77.2 µm to 221.0 ± 78.7 µm in the nonloading group (P=0.26). Both the loading and nonloading groups achieved 69% dry macula. The number of injections received was significantly higher in the loading group (7.6 ± 0.6 vs. 6.8 ± 0.4, P < 0.001). Two patients (4.2%) developed intraocular inflammation. Conclusion Switching to brolucizumab from aflibercept for eyes with nAMD with resistance to bimonthly injections of aflibercept is a valuable treatment option with and without the loading regimen. This trial is registered with UMIN000023676.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kamao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0114, Japan
| | - Erika Mitsui
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0114, Japan
| | - Yuto Date
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0114, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Goto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0114, Japan
| | - Kenichi Mizukawa
- Shirai Eye Hospital, 1339 Takasecho Kamitakase, Mitoyo, Kagawa 767-0001, Japan
| | - Atsushi Miki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kawasaki Medical School, 577 Matsushima, Kurashiki, Okayama 701-0114, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Inoda S, Takahashi H, Takahashi R, Hashimoto Y, Yoshida H, Tsukii R, Takahashi H, Kawashima H, Yanagi Y. One-year outcome of brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Japanese patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2451. [PMID: 38291120 PMCID: PMC10827718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52747-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
A new anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent, brolucizumab, was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2019. We evaluated whether brolucizumab reduces the treatment burden of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) after switching by examining 1-year treatment outcomes in a real-world setting. This retrospective single-institution study included 107 consecutive eyes with nAMD treated with brolucizumab. Among these eyes, 30 with treatment-naïve nAMD and 77 treated with other anti-VEGF agents for more than a year were included. All eyes were managed using a treat and extend (TAE) or modified TAE regimen. The last injection intervals at 52 weeks were 12.9 and 12.1 weeks in the treatment-naïve and switch therapy groups, respectively. Among switch therapy group patients whose pre-switch injection intervals were shorter than 120 days (n = 62 eyes), the injection interval was significantly longer after the switch than before, with a mean difference of 2.7 weeks (P < 0.0001). Intraocular inflammation events occurred in 2 and 7 treatment-naïve and switch therapy patients, respectively. In conclusion, brolucizumab might reduce the treatment burden in patients who required the injection of other anti-VEGF agents with a 120-day interval or shorter, despite a relatively high discontinuation rate due to intraocular inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoru Inoda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hidenori Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan.
| | - Ryota Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Yuto Hashimoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hana Yoshida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Rika Tsukii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hironori Takahashi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Kawashima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jichi Medical University, 3311-1 Yakushiji, Shimotsuke-shi, Tochigi, 329-0431, Japan
| | - Yasuo Yanagi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Micro-Technology, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Boscia G, Pozharitskiy N, Grassi MO, Borrelli E, D'Addario M, Alessio G, Boscia F, Viggiano P. Choroidal remodeling following different anti-VEGF therapies in neovascular AMD. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1941. [PMID: 38253789 PMCID: PMC10803349 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52315-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate choroidal morphology remodeling in AMD-associated type 1 macular neovascularization using two different anti-VEGF drugs. We registered 73 treatment-naïve eyes with a diagnosis of exudative AMD and type 1 MNV. Patients received 3 monthly intravitreal aflibercept (n = 36, aflibercept group [AG]) or brolucizumab (n = 37, brolucizumab group [BG]). Baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and anatomical (structural optical coherence tomography) parameters were collected at "T1 control", before the loading phase (LP) of intravitreal injection, and at "T2 control", 1 month after the last injection. The main outcomes measured were choroidal vascularity index (CVI), sub-foveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), and central macular thickness (CMT). Our results displayed significant SFCT reduction in both groups between T1 and T2 (p < 0.05), We did not find choroidal vascularity modifications (p > 0.05) after the loading aflibercept injections. Moreover, only the BG displayed a significant choroidal remodeling (stromal choroidal area [SCA], total choroidal area [TCA] and CVI) at T2 (p < 0.05). In particular, a relevant stromal and total choroidal volume reduction was noted, accompanied by an increase in CVI. To conclude, the latter modifications of the choroidal morphology were found significant between two groups (p < 0.05). Our analysis showed a significant impact of brolucizumab on choroidal morphology in eyes affected by type 1 nAMD. This effect was found relevant when compared with aflibercept.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Nikolai Pozharitskiy
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Oliva Grassi
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Enrico Borrelli
- Ophthalmology Department, San Raffaele University Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina D'Addario
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Alessio
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Boscia
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy
| | - Pasquale Viggiano
- Department of Translational Biomedicine Neuroscience, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, Bari, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Grewal DS, Wykoff CC, D’Souza D, Jehl V, Alecu I, Jaffe GJ. Imaging Features of Retinal Vasculitis and/or Retinal Vascular Occlusion after Brolucizumab Treatment in the Postmarketing Setting. OPHTHALMOLOGY SCIENCE 2024; 4:100361. [PMID: 37869023 PMCID: PMC10587630 DOI: 10.1016/j.xops.2023.100361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this analysis was to characterize the spectrum of inflammatory changes arising from brolucizumab use in routine clinical practice. Design Retrospective analysis of fluorescein angiography (FA), fundus photography (FP) and OCT images taken at the time of adverse event. Subjects Brolucizumab-treated patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration with retinal vasculitis (RV) and/or retinal vascular occlusion (RO) reported to Novartis Patient Safety between February 2020 and January 2021. Methods Ocular images were reviewed by an external reading center using predefined grading lists for FA, FP, and OCT. Main Outcome Measures Classification of images, the most common imaging features of RV and/or RO by each imaging modality, and the anatomical location of the adverse event in relation to the macula. Results Gradable images (N = 475; 222 eyes; 198 patients) were classified as RV only (n = 72); RO only (n = 9), RV + RO (n = 63); posterior segment intraocular inflammation (n = 31); or none by imaging (n = 47). Of the 144 eyes with RV and/or RO, the most common imaging features were vascular leakage on FA, perivascular sheathing on FP, and hyperreflective dots in the vitreous humor on OCT. Retinal vascular occlusion was mainly branched and arterial, affecting multiple vessels. Conclusions Although no distinct inflammatory phenotype pathognomonic to brolucizumab-related inflammation was identified, this study increases our understanding of the spectrum of posterior segment inflammatory changes that may occur in brolucizumab-treated neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients, highlighting the potential value of widefield retinal imaging and angiography to detect these inflammatory adverse events. Financial Disclosures Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dilraj S. Grewal
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Divya D’Souza
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., East Hanover, New Jersey
| | | | | | - Glenn J. Jaffe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Witkin AJ, Jaffe GJ, Srivastava SK, Davis JL, Kim JE. Retinal Vasculitis After Intravitreal Pegcetacoplan: Report From the ASRS Research and Safety in Therapeutics (ReST) Committee. JOURNAL OF VITREORETINAL DISEASES 2024; 8:9-20. [PMID: 38223782 PMCID: PMC10786078 DOI: 10.1177/24741264231220224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Purpose: To analyze post-marketing cases of retinal vasculitis after intravitreal pegcetacoplan. Methods: The American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) Research and Safety in Therapeutics (ReST) Committee as well as an expert panel performed a retrospective review of cases of retinal vasculitis reported to the ASRS. Clinical and imaging characteristics were reviewed for evidence of retinal vasculitis and analyzed. Results: Fourteen eyes of 13 patients were confirmed to have retinal vasculitis by review of imaging studies. All cases occurred after the first pegcetacoplan injection. Occlusive retinal vasculopathy was confirmed in 11 eyes (79%). Patients presented a median of 10.5 days (range, 8-23 days) after pegcetacoplan injection. All eyes had anterior chamber inflammation, and 12 eyes (86%) had vitritis. Vasculopathy involved retinal veins (100%) more than arteries (73%), and 12 eyes (86%) had retinal hemorrhages. The median visual acuity (VA) was 20/60 (range, 20/30-5/200) at baseline, 20/300 (range, 20/100-no light perception [NLP]) at vasculitis presentation, and 20/200 (range 20/70-NLP) at the last follow-up. Eight eyes (57%) had more than a 3-line decrease in VA, and 6 eyes (43%) had more than a 6-line decrease in VA from baseline to the final follow-up, including 2 eyes that were enucleated. Six eyes (43%) developed signs of anterior segment neovascularization. Conclusions: There is currently no known etiology for vasculitis in this series. Optimum treatment strategies remain unknown. Infectious etiologies should be considered, and corticosteroid treatments may hasten resolution of inflammatory findings. Continued treatment of affected patients with pegcetacoplan should be avoided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Janet L. Davis
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Judy E. Kim
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Palmieri F, Younis S, Bedan Hamoud A, Fabozzi L. Uveitis Following Intravitreal Injections of Faricimab: A Case Report. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023:1-5. [PMID: 38133943 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2293925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Faricimab, a novel pharmaceutical agent targeting both angiopoietin-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A pathways, has gained approval for treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular oedema. While clinical trials have demonstrated its favorable safety profile, this research presents two cases of hypertensive uveitis following intravitreal Faricimab injections. METHODS Medical history, clinical findings and multimodal images were retrospectively collected. RESULTS The patients experienced elevated intraocular pressure, mutton-fat keratic precipitates, anterior and posterior segment inflammation shortly after faricimab administration. CONCLUSIONS These cases prompt further investigation into the potential risk of uveitis associated with faricimab and underscore the importance of continued monitoring and research to elucidate its real-world safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Palmieri
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Saad Younis
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Lorenzo Fabozzi
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
- Medical Retina Department, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Finocchio L, Zeppieri M, Gabai A, Toneatto G, Spadea L, Salati C. Recent Developments in Gene Therapy for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3221. [PMID: 38137442 PMCID: PMC10740940 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a complex and multifactorial disease and a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly population. The anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy has revolutionized the management and prognosis of neovascular AMD (nAMD) and is currently the standard of care for this disease. However, patients are required to receive repeated injections, imposing substantial social and economic burdens. The implementation of gene therapy methods to achieve sustained delivery of various therapeutic proteins holds the promise of a single treatment that could ameliorate the treatment challenges associated with chronic intravitreal therapy, and potentially improve visual outcomes. Several early-phase trials are currently underway, evaluating the safety and efficacy of gene therapy for nAMD; however, areas of controversy persist, including the therapeutic target, route of administration, and potential safety issues. In this review, we assess the evolution of gene therapy for nAMD and summarize several preclinical and early-stage clinical trials, exploring challenges and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Finocchio
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabai
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Giacomo Toneatto
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| | - Leopoldo Spadea
- Eye Clinic, Policlinico Umberto I, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00142 Rome, Italy
| | - Carlo Salati
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Borodic G. Botulinum toxin type A in multimodal management of age-related macular degeneration and related diseases. Toxicon 2023; 236:107170. [PMID: 37210045 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is the major cause of visual loss in the aging population in the Western world. In past decade, intra ocular injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) pharmaceuticals have revolutionized therapy for exudative (edematous-wet) AMD and become standard practice for the near term. However repeated intra-ocular injections are required for years and long terms results have been limited. The pathogenesis of this condition is multifactorial involving genetic, ischemic, inflammatory factors leading to neovascularization, edema and retinal pigment epithelial scaring resulting in photoreceptor destruction. Based on coincidental observation in reduction in AMD related macular edema on ocular coherence tomography (OCT) in a BoNT A treated patient with facial movement disease, BoNT-A at conventional doses targeting the para orbital area was added to therapeutic regiment in a small number of patients with exudative macular degeneration or related diseases. Measurements of edema and choriocapillaris using Spectral Doman (OCT) and Ocular Coherence Angiography (OCT-A) and Snellen visual acuity were made over the evaluation period. 15 eyes in 14 patients averaged 361 μm central sub foveal edema (CSFT) pre injection and average of 266 μm (CSFT) post injection over an average of 21 months and 5.7 cycles using BoNT A alone at conventional doses (n = 86 post injection measurements, paired t-test p < 0.001 two tailed). Visions at baseline in patients with 20/40 or worse averaged 20/100- pre injection improved to an average of 20/40- in the post injection period (n = 49 measurements p < 0.002 paired t-test). The previous data was added to a group of 12 more severely afflicted patients receiving anti VEGF (aflibercept or bevacizumab) (total 27 patients). With this 27-patient group, patients were followed for an average of 20 months and receiving average of 6 cycles at conventional doses. Improvement in exudative edema and vision were noted with pre injection baseline CSFT average 399.5, post injection average 267, n = 303 post measurement, independent t-test P < 0.0001.). Snellen vision 20/128 baseline average improved to average of 20/60- during post injection period (n = 157 post injection measurements, p < 0.0001 paired t-test to baseline). No substantial adverse effects were noted. Cyclic effects were noted corresponding to duration of action of BoNT-A on a number of patients. The above data is preliminary and is skewed toward early leakage for all conditions. BoNT A may have a role in the treatment of aged related macular degeneration. Controlled studies are needed with careful staging and baseline stratifications for multi-modal management paradigms. The findings are discussed relative to known botulinum toxin type A pharmacology and AMD pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Borodic
- Associated Eye Physicians and Surgeons Inc, Quincy, Ma, 02169, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Carosielli M, Carnevali A, Fallico M, Pirozzi E, Chiosi F, Chronopoulos A, Cucciniello P, Affatato M, Rapino G, dell'Omo R. Intravitreal Brolucizumab for Pachychoroid Neovasculopathy Associated With Chronic Central Serous Chorioretinopathy. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:17. [PMID: 38112497 PMCID: PMC10732086 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.12.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of intravitreal brolucizumab in eyes with chronic central serous chorioretinopathy complicated by pachychoroid neovasculopathy. Methods Retrospective analysis of 34 eyes treated with intravitreal brolucizumab. Twenty-five eyes (73.5%) had been treated with other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents before switching to brolucizumab, whereas nine eyes were naïve. Outcome measures included the change of central foveal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness, evaluation of sub/intraretinal fluid on optical coherence tomography, and change in best-corrected visual acuity. Results Before starting brolucizumab, 23 eyes showed subretinal fluid, 8 both subretinal and intraretinal fluid, and 3 intraretinal fluid only. At the last visit, 22 eyes (64.7%) showed complete reabsorption of both intraretinal and subretinal fluid, whereas subretinal fluid was still present in 8 eyes (23.5%), and both intraretinal and subretinal fluid in 4 eyes (11.8%). The mean number of brolucizumab injections required to achieve complete fluid reabsorption was 2.8 ± 1.8. central foveal thickness decreased from 317.8 ± 109.3 µm to 239.8 ± 74.8 µm (P = 0.0005) and subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased from 399.3 ± 86.2 µm to 355.5 ± 92.7 µm at the end of the follow-up period (P = 0.0008). The mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.4 ± 0.2 to 0.3 ± 0.2 at 1 month after the first injection and remained stable at the same values at the end of the follow-up period (P = 0.04). Conclusions Intravitreal brolucizumab is effective for the treatment of naïve and recalcitrant pachychoroid neovasculopathy. Translational Relevance Intravitreal brolucizumab may represent an option in patients with pachychoroid neovasculopathy complicating chronic central serous chorioretinopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Carosielli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Adriano Carnevali
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Græcia, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Matteo Fallico
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Enza Pirozzi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Santa Croce e Carle Hospital, Cuneo, Italy
| | - Flavia Chiosi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Ospedaliera dei Colli-Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Pasquale Cucciniello
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Marzia Affatato
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rapino
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Roberto dell'Omo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - on behalf of the BROCS study group, BROCS (BROlucizumab for the treatment of Central Serous chorioretinopathy) study group†
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “Vincenzo Tiberio”, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Magna Græcia, Catanzaro, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Santa Croce e Carle Hospital, Cuneo, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Azienda Ospedaliera dei Colli-Ospedale Monaldi, Naples, Italy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwigshafen Hospital, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany
- Department of Experimental Biomedicine and Cnilical Neuroscience, Ophthalmology Section, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- Eye Clinic, Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive and Dentistry Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Eye Unit, Department of Medicine Surgery and Dentistry, Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Hoshi K, Kunikata H, Aizawa N, Yasuda M, Okabe T, Takizawa H, Abe T, Nakazawa T. Baseline characteristics associated with the incidence of intraocular inflammation after the intravitreous injection of brolucizumab. Int Ophthalmol 2023; 43:4701-4709. [PMID: 38044420 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-023-02870-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate baseline characteristics associated with the incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI) after the intravitreal injection of brolucizumab (IVBr) for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). METHODS This retrospective study included 66 eyes of 62 consecutive patients with nAMD who received IVBr (18 eyes were treatment naïve and 48 eyes had switched from other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] therapy). Baseline clinical characteristics were compared in non-IOI and IOI groups. RESULTS Although a dry macula was achieved at a high rate even 6 months after IVBr, IOI occurred in 8 of 66 eyes (12.1%; all had switched therapy) during the study period. Baseline characteristics including age, sex, nAMD type, lens status, visual acuity, central macular thickness, and a history of diabetes did not differ between the groups. The number of previous anti-VEGF injections before IVBr was greater in the IOI group (P = 0.004), and the ratio of patients with a laser flare-cell photometry (LFCP) value over 15 photon count per millisecond (pc/ms) was higher in the IOI group (P = 0.017). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a greater number of previous anti-VEGF injections (odds ratio [OR]: 1.12, P = 0.006; area under the curve: 0.82, cut-off score: 14.0) and an LFCP value over 15 pc/ms (OR: 81.6, P = 0.031) were significantly associated with the incidence of IOI after IVBr. CONCLUSION A number of previous anti-VEGF injections greater than 14 and an LFCP value more than 15 pc/ms might be useful predictors of the incidence of IOI after IVBr in eyes with nAMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keisuke Hoshi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Kunikata
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan.
- Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Naoko Aizawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Masayuki Yasuda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Tatsu Okabe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Hiroki Takizawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Abe
- Division of Clinical Cell Therapy Center for Advanced Medical Research and Development, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Toru Nakazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Seiryo-Machi, Aoba-Ku, Sendai, 980-8574, Japan
- Department of Retinal Disease Control, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Ophthalmic Imaging and Information Analytics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Advanced Ophthalmic Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bodaghi B, Khanani AM, Khoramnia R, Pavesio C, Nguyen QD. Gains in the current understanding of managing neovascular AMD with brolucizumab. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2023; 13:51. [PMID: 37995057 PMCID: PMC10667168 DOI: 10.1186/s12348-023-00369-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unresolved retinal fluid and high injection burden are major challenges for patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Brolucizumab addresses these challenges by providing robust vision gains and superior fluid resolution, with the potential for longer treatment intervals. Brolucizumab has been associated with adverse events of retinal vasculitis and retinal vascular occlusion typically in the presence of intraocular inflammation (IOI). To define the incidence of the adverse events, Novartis convened an external safety review committee, which found a rate of 4.6% for definite or probable IOI, 3.3% for retinal vasculitis, and 2.1% for retinal vascular occlusion in the HAWK and HARRIER trials. Novartis also established a coalition to explore 4 areas regarding the adverse events: root cause, patient characterization, event mitigation and vigilance, and treatment protocols for the adverse events. Based on the coalition findings, a risk mitigation framework was developed. Prior to initiating treatment with brolucizumab, it is important to weigh the potential benefit against risk of adverse events and to consider patient risk factors such as prior history of IOI and/or retinal vascular occlusion. To mitigate the potential for IOI-related adverse events, it is important to conduct a thorough dilated eye examination before each injection and closely monitor patients throughout treatment. Patients should be educated on symptoms of IOI to monitor for. Brolucizumab should not be injected in the presence of active IOI. If an adverse event is identified, prompt and intensive treatment should be considered. CONCLUSION Progress has been made in understanding how to mitigate IOI-related adverse events following treatment with brolucizumab.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Bodaghi
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, Sorbonne University, Paris, France
| | - Arshad M Khanani
- Sierra Eye Associates, Reno, NV, USA
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Ramin Khoramnia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carlos Pavesio
- Department of Uveitis, Moorfields Eye Hospital and University College London, London, UK
| | - Quan Dong Nguyen
- Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2370 Watson Court, Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Cho HJ, Kang KH, Yoon W, Lee J, Kim CG, Kim JW. Intravitreal Brolucizumab and Aflibercept for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther 2023; 39:653-660. [PMID: 37504966 DOI: 10.1089/jop.2023.0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of intravitreal injections of brolucizumab and aflibercept in patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). Methods: In total, 62 treatment-naive PCV eyes (62 patients) treated with intravitreal brolucizumab or aflibercept were analyzed retrospectively. All patients received a monthly loading injection of antivascular endothelial growth factor for 3 months, followed by further injections as required. Visual and anatomical outcomes were compared between drugs after 12 months of treatment. Results: The improvement in best-corrected visual acuity after 12 months of treatment was not significantly different between the brolucizumab-treated (22 eyes) and aflibercept-treated groups (40 eyes). However, in the brolucizumab-treated group, there was a significantly greater decrease in central retinal thickness (172 vs. 147 μm; P = 0.031) and subfoveal choroidal thickness after treatment (51 vs. 29 μm; P = 0.025). In addition, the regression rate of polypoidal lesions was significantly higher in the brolucizumab-treated group (77.3%, 17/22 eyes) than that in the aflibercept-treated group (45.0%, 18/40 eyes; P = 0.014). Sterile intraocular inflammation showing mild vitritis was observed in 1 of the 22 eyes (4.5%) of brolucizumab-treated patients. Conclusion: Intravitreal brolucizumab injections for PCV showed visual improvement comparable to that of aflibercept during the 12-month treatment period. However, brolucizumab was more effective than aflibercept for the regression of polypoidal lesions and caused a greater decrease in central retinal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Joo Cho
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyoung Hae Kang
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Wontae Yoon
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jihyun Lee
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Chul Gu Kim
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jong Woo Kim
- Kim's Eye Hospital, Konyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Gabrielle PH, Mehta H, Barthelmes D, Daien V, Nguyen V, Gillies MC, Creuzot-Garcher CP. From randomised controlled trials to real-world data: Clinical evidence to guide management of diabetic macular oedema. Prog Retin Eye Res 2023; 97:101219. [PMID: 37898362 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2023.101219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
Randomised clinical trials (RCTs) are generally considered the gold-standard for providing scientific evidence for treatments' effectiveness and safety but their findings may not always be generalisable to the broader population treated in routine clinical practice. RCTs include highly selected patient populations that fit specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Although they may have a lower level of certainty than RCTs on the evidence hierarchy, real-world data (RWD), such as observational studies, registries and databases, provide real-world evidence (RWE) that can complement RCTs. For example, RWE may help satisfy requirements for a new indication of an already approved drug and help us better understand long-term treatment effectiveness, safety and patterns of use in clinical practice. Many countries have set up registries, observational studies and databases containing information on patients with retinal diseases, such as diabetic macular oedema (DMO). These DMO RWD have produced significant clinical evidence in the past decade that has changed the management of DMO. RWD and medico-administrative databases are a useful resource to identify low frequency safety signals. They often have long-term follow-up with a large number of patients and minimal exclusion criteria. We will discuss improvements in healthcare information exchange technologies, such as blockchain technology and FHIR (Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources), which will connect and extend databases already available. These registries can be linked with existing or emerging retinal imaging modalities using artificial intelligence to aid diagnosis, treatment decisions and provide prognostic information. The results of RCTs and RWE are combined to provide evidence-based guidelines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Henry Gabrielle
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dijon University Hospital, Dijon, Burgundy, France; The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hemal Mehta
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Ophthalmology Department, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Barthelmes
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Daien
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Department of Ophthalmology, Montpellier University Hospital, Montpellier, France; Institute for Neurosciences of Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, INSERM, Montpellier, France
| | - Vuong Nguyen
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Mark C Gillies
- The Save Sight Institute, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Ma H, Wei H, Zou C, Zhu G, Gao Q, Zhang N, Wang B. Anti-VEGF Drugs in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Focus on Dosing Regimen-Related Safety and Efficacy. Drugs Aging 2023; 40:991-1007. [PMID: 37863867 DOI: 10.1007/s40266-023-01068-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the main causes of visual impairment and severe visual loss, and can progress to two advanced forms-neovascularization and atrophic. The field of anti-AMD drugs has undergone huge developments in recent years, from single-target intravitreal administration to current clinical studies with multi-target and non-invasive agents, offering interesting new pharmacological opportunities for the treatment of this disease. Hence, we summarize some of the approved anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drugs for neovascular AMD, especially their structural characteristics, clinical manifestations, dosing regimens, and safety issues of the anti-VEGF drugs highlighted. In addition, advances in atrophic AMD drug research are also briefly described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haibei Ma
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai Wei
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunpu Zou
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoqin Zhu
- SPH Xingling Sci. & Tech. Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Gao
- SPH Xingling Sci. & Tech. Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Shanghai, China.
| | - Ning Zhang
- Experiment Center for Science and Technology, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 1200 Cai-lun Rd, Shanghai, China.
| | - Bing Wang
- Center for Pharmaceutics Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica Chinese Academy of Sciences, 501 Hai-ke Rd, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bodaghi B, Souied EH, Tadayoni R, Weber M, Ponthieux A, Kodjikian L. Detection and Management of Intraocular Inflammation after Brolucizumab Treatment for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Ophthalmol Retina 2023; 7:879-891. [PMID: 37343623 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To present interim descriptive insights from the OCTOPUS and SWIFT studies on incidence, clinical features, management, and outcomes of intraocular inflammation (IOI), vasculitis, and occlusive vasculitis with brolucizumab treatment (Beovu, Novartis) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) who were anti-VEGF naive or pretreated with anti-VEGFs (ranibizumab or aflibercept). DESIGN OCTOPUS (NCT04239027) and SWIFT (NCT04264819) studies are prospective phase IIIb single-arm, open-label, multicenter studies assessing brolucizumab. SUBJECTS Anti-VEGF naive (OCTOPUS) and pretreated (SWIFT) patients with nAMD. METHODS Interim prespecified analysis on the efficacy end point provided an opportunity to analyze IOI-related safety. Reports of IOI-related adverse events (AEs) were reviewed, and AE images and clinical features and outcomes of each case were analyzed by a review committee. RESULTS Of 505 brolucizumab-treated eyes/patients with median brolucizumab treatment of 8.8 months, 53 eyes demonstrated at least 1 IOI-related AE. The incidence of overall IOI-related AEs was 10.5%; among these events, the incidence was 7.1% for IOI only without retinal involvement and 3.4% for IOI with retinal involvement (2.0% with vasculitis, 1.4% with vascular occlusion with or without vasculitis). Incidence was similar in naive and pretreated patients. Before the onset of the first IOI-related AE, eyes received a median of 2 brolucizumab injections; 81.1% of IOI-related AEs occurred during the loading phase (median, 25.0 days from the last brolucizumab injection). At AE onset, most frequently reported symptoms were floaters (52.8%) and blurred or decreased vision (37.8%). Of the 86.8% of AEs that were treated, most were treated with topical corticosteroids (75.5%), 28.3% by systemic corticosteroids, and 26.8% by intraocular corticosteroids. No severe vision loss was reported for the 7 nontreated AEs. Overall, the median best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) change at IOI-related AEs resolution from baseline was 1 letter (range, -74 to +32 letters), and 2 patients with occlusive vasculitis had BCVA loss ≥ 15 letters due to IOI-related AEs. All eyes permanently discontinued brolucizumab after the first IOI-related AE. CONCLUSIONS This analysis highlights the need for monitoring and education of patients to report any signs of IOI-related events immediately when being treated with brolucizumab. IOI should be treated promptly and intensely with corticosteroids. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Bodaghi
- Department of Ophthalmology, IHU FOReSIGHT, Sorbonne University, APHP, Paris, France
| | - Eric H Souied
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Université de Paris Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Ramin Tadayoni
- Université Paris Cité, AP-HP, Lariboisière, St Louis and Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild hospitals, Paris, France
| | - Michel Weber
- Clinique Ophtalmologique, CHU de Nantes, 1, place Alexis Ricordeau, 44093 Nantes
| | - Anne Ponthieux
- Novartis Pharma SAS, Rueil-Malmaison, Malmaison, France.
| | - Laurent Kodjikian
- Department of Ophthalmology, Croix-Rousse teaching Hospital, Hospices Civils de Lyon, 69004 Lyon, France; UMR5510 MATEIS, CNRS, INSA Lyon, Université Lyon 1, 69100 Villeurbanne, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Matsumoto H, Hoshino J, Nakamura K, Nagashima T, Akiyama H. Short-term outcomes of intravitreal faricimab for treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2023; 261:2945-2952. [PMID: 37195339 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-023-06116-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the efficacy and safety of loading phase treatment with 3 monthly intravitreal injections of faricimab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). METHODS We retrospectively analyzed 16-week outcomes of 40 consecutive eyes of 38 patients with treatment-naïve nAMD. Three monthly injections of faricimab were administered to all eyes as a loading phase treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), foveal thickness, central choroidal thickness (CCT), and dry macula achievement were all assessed every 4 weeks. Moreover, the regression of polypoidal lesions was evaluated after the loading phase. RESULTS BCVA was 0.33 ± 0.41 at baseline and showed significant improvement to 0.22 ± 0.36 at week 16 (P < 0.01). Foveal thickness was 278 ± 116 µm at baseline, decreasing significantly to 173 ± 48 µm at week 16 (P < 0.01). CCT was 214 ± 98 µm at baseline, decreasing significantly to 192 ± 89 µm at week 16 (P < 0.01). Dry macula was achieved in 31 eyes (79.5%) at week 16. Indocyanine green angiography after the loading phase revealed complete regression of polypoidal lesions in 11 of 18 eyes (61.1%) with polypoidal lesions. One eye (2.5%) developed vitritis without visual loss at week 16. CONCLUSION Loading phase treatment with intravitreal faricimab appears to generally be safe and effective for improving visual acuity and reducing exudative changes in eyes with nAMD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hidetaka Matsumoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan.
| | - Junki Hoshino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Kosuke Nakamura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Tetsuhiro Nagashima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Hideo Akiyama
- Department of Ophthalmology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, 3-39-15 Showa-Machi, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Larsen HO, Grauslund J, Vergmann AS. Efficacy, Durability and Safety of Faricimab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Diabetic Macular Oedema: Lessons Learned from Registration Trials. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:2253-2264. [PMID: 37410309 PMCID: PMC10441964 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00753-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review aims to assess the efficacy, durability and safety of faricimab-a dual vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin 2 inhibitor-in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and diabetic macula oedema (DMO). It summarises the findings of current studies on faricimab and discusses whether this new drug may fill a gap in current treatment options. METHODS We performed a search of the PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science and EMBASE databases for publications on faricimab between 29 November 2022 and 10 May 2023, and a search of ClinicalTrials.gov for the protocols on clinical trials for this review. We included clinical trials, case-control studies and observational studies. RESULTS In phase 3 trials of nAMD, the efficacy of faricimab was non-inferior to aflibercept (+ 5.8-6.6 vs. + 5.1-6.6 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study [ETDRS] letters). At study end, 80% of faricimab-treated patients were on ≥ 12-week dosing intervals, and 44.9-45.7% of faricimab-treated patients were on 16-week dosing intervals. Total adverse events, as well as serious ocular adverse events, were comparable between groups. In phase 3 trials of DMO, efficacy of faricimab was non-inferior to aflibercept (+ 10.7-11.8 vs. + 10.3-10.9 ETDRS letters). At study end, > 70% of patients in the personalised treatment interval faricimab group were on ≥ 12-week dosing intervals, and 51-53% were on 16-week dosing intervals. Total adverse events were comparable between groups, although the rate of serious ocular adverse events was higher in the faricimab groups than in the aflibercept groups (1.9-3.1% vs. 0.6-1.9%, respectively). In real-world studies of treatment-resistant nAMD or DMO, faricimab demonstrated superior efficacy compared to aflibercept. In a real-world study of mostly previously treated nAMD, faricimab demonstrated some efficacy. CONCLUSION Faricimab demonstrated non-inferior to superior efficacy, strong durability and acceptable safety in treatment-naïve nAMD and mostly treatment-naïve DMO, as well as superior efficacy in treatment-resistant nAMD and DMO. However, further research is needed on faricimab in real-world settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helene O Larsen
- Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000, Odense C, Denmark.
| | - Jakob Grauslund
- Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Steno Diabetes Center Odense, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
| | - Anna S Vergmann
- Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, J. B. Winsløws Vej 4, 5000, Odense C, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Pakravan P, Patel V, Lai J, Shaheen A, Kalahasty K, Reyes-Capo DP, Chau V, Rosenfeld PJ, Haddock LJ, Schwartz SG, Smiddy WE, Kovach JL, Sridhar J, Flynn HW, Albini TA, Yannuzzi NA. INTRAOCULAR INFLAMMATION INCIDENCE AFTER INTRAVITREAL BROLUCIZUMAB INJECTION FOR EXUDATIVE AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION. Retina 2023; 43:1717-1722. [PMID: 37320859 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0000000000003862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We evaluated the clinical outcomes of intraocular inflammation (IOI) of eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) injected with brolucizumab in our tertiary referral center. METHODS A retrospective case series for which clinical records of all eyes that received intravitreal brolucizumab at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute between December 1, 2019, and April 1, 2021, were reviewed. RESULTS There were 345 eyes of 278 patients who received 801 brolucizumab injections. IOI was detected in 16 eyes of 13 patients (4.6%). In those patients, baseline Logarithm of Minimu Angle of Resolution (logMAR) best-corrected visual acuity was 0.32 0.2 (20/42), while it was 0.58 0.3 (20/76) at IOI presentation. The mean number of injections among eyes experiencing IOI was 2.4, and the interval between the last brolucizumab injection and IOI presentation was 20 days. There was no known case of retinal vasculitis. Management of IOI included topical steroids in seven eyes (54%), topical and systemic steroids in five eyes (38%), and observation in one eye (8%). Best-corrected visual acuity returned to baseline and inflammation resolved in all eyes by the last follow-up examination. CONCLUSION Intraocular inflammation after brolucizumab injection for neovascular AMD was not uncommon. Inflammation resolved in all eyes by the last follow-up visit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parastou Pakravan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zubricky R, McCoy J, Donkor R, Miller DG, Sonbolian N, Heaney A, Bilano V, Karcher H, Coney JM. Real-World Frequency and Management of Ocular Adverse Events in Eyes with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treated with Brolucizumab. Ophthalmol Ther 2023; 12:2397-2408. [PMID: 37310683 PMCID: PMC10442012 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-023-00741-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intraocular inflammation (IOI)-related adverse events (AEs) that may result in severe vision loss have been associated with the anti-vascular endothelial growth factor brolucizumab. In this study, we investigate the timing, management and resolution of IOI-related AEs in a large cohort of patients treated with at least one injection of brolucizumab in routine clinical practice. METHODS Retrospective review of medical records from patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated with ≥ 1 brolucizumab injection between October 2019 and November 2021 at the Retina Associates of Cleveland, Inc. clinics. RESULTS Of the 482 eyes included in the study, IOI-related AEs occurred in 22 (4.6%) eyes. Four (0.8%) eyes developed retinal vasculitis (RV) and of these, 2 (0.4%) had concomitant retinal vascular occlusion (RO). Most eyes [14/22 (64%)] developed the AE within 3 months and 4/22 (18%) within 3-6 months of the first brolucizumab injection. The median [interquartile range (IQR)] time from the last brolucizumab injection to development of the IOI-related AE was 13 (4-34) days. At the time of event, 3 (0.6%) eyes with IOI (no RV/RO) developed severe vision loss of ≥ 30 ETDRS letters, and a further 5 (1.0%) eyes (1 with IOI + RV, 1 with IOI + RV + RO) developed moderate vision loss of ≥ 15 letters compared with their last visual acuity (VA) prior to the AE. The median (IQR) vision loss was -6.8 (-19.9, -0.0) letters. Taking the best VA at either 3 or 6 months after AE resolution (or stability for occlusive events), VA decreased by ≥ 5 letters compared with prior to the AE in 3 (14%) of the 22 affected eyes, and was preserved (< 5-letter loss) in 18 (82%) eyes. CONCLUSIONS In this real-world study, most IOI-related AEs occurred early after brolucizumab treatment initiation. With appropriate monitoring and management of IOI-related AEs, vision loss associated with brolucizumab may be limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jasmyne McCoy
- Retina Associates of Cleveland Inc, 24075 Commerce Park, Beachwood, OH, 44122, USA
| | - Richard Donkor
- Retina Associates of Cleveland Inc, 24075 Commerce Park, Beachwood, OH, 44122, USA
| | - David G Miller
- Retina Associates of Cleveland Inc, 24075 Commerce Park, Beachwood, OH, 44122, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Joseph M Coney
- Retina Associates of Cleveland Inc, 24075 Commerce Park, Beachwood, OH, 44122, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Saba NJ, Walter SD. Efficacy, Safety, and Durability of Brolucizumab: An 8-Month Post-Marketing Surveillance Analysis. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:2791-2802. [PMID: 37753246 PMCID: PMC10518423 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s425709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Brolucizumab (Beovu®) is an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent approved for the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nvAMD). Brolucizumab was marketed for its noninferiority to aflibercept and its potential for greater durability. However, post-marketing utilization has been tempered by safety concerns. Objective We evaluate the visual and anatomic efficacy of brolucizumab, examine changes in treatment intervals after switching to brolucizumab, and estimate the incidence of drug-related adverse events in the real world. Design Setting and Participants This was a retrospective consecutive case series of 626 eyes (543 patients) with nvAMD treated with 1438 brolucizumab injections at a single retina practice between 10/1/2019 and 5/15/2020. Main Outcomes and Measures Changes in visual acuity (VA); anatomic outcomes assessed by optical coherence tomography (OCT) including central subfield thickness (CST), macular volume (MV), presence of intraretinal fluid (IRF), subretinal fluid (SRF), and serous pigment epithelial detachment (sPED) on foveal line scans; treatment intervals before and after receiving brolucizumab; and the incidence of brolucizumab-related adverse events. Results The majority of eyes (N = 531, 89.7%) had received prior anti-VEGF therapy with aflibercept, ranibizumab, and/or bevacizumab. VA improved in treatment-naïve eyes (+3.7 letters, p = 0.04), and was maintained in previously treated eyes. There were significant improvements in all anatomic outcomes in both groups (p < 0.001). We observed a 4.8% incidence of intraocular inflammation (IOI) and a 0.6% incidence of retinal vasculitis. The average treatment interval increased from 6.3 to 6.8 weeks (p = 0.001). Conclusions and Relevance Brolucizumab treatment was associated with VA improvement in naïve eyes and maintenance of VA in previously treated eyes. Switching to brolucizumab was associated with improved anatomic outcomes and extended treatment intervals in most eyes. We observed a similar incidence of IOI and a lower incidence of retinal vasculitis compared to the Safety Review Committee's analysis of HAWK and HARRIER.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Saba
- Department of Ophthalmology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
MacCumber MW, Wykoff CC, Karcher H, Adiguzel E, Sinha SB, Vishwakarma S, LaPrise A, Igwe F, Freitas R, Ip MS, Zarbin MA. One-Year Brolucizumab Outcomes in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration from a Large United States Cohort in the IRIS® Registry. Ophthalmology 2023; 130:937-946. [PMID: 37086857 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2023.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/24/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate visual acuity (VA) and injection intervals in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) after 12 months of brolucizumab therapy in clinical practice. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. PARTICIPANTS Adults in the United States-based IRIS® Registry (Intelligent Research in Sight) with nAMD who received brolucizumab exclusively for 12 months (2308 eyes of 2079 patients). METHODS Observational study of eyes with a first injection of brolucizumab (index), followed by 2 or more brolucizumab injections over the following 12 months without switching to another anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agent. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcomes were change in best recorded VA and, for eyes receiving prior anti-VEGF therapy (treatment-experienced eyes), the difference between the brolucizumab injection interval at 12 months and the anti-VEGF injection interval before switching. The interval before switching was defined as the time between the prior anti-VEGF and index brolucizumab injections; brolucizumab interval was the time between the closest injection to day 365 and the preceding injection. Secondary outcomes included incident adverse events. RESULTS Overall VA at index was 61.6 ± 18.4 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters; 83.7% of treatment-naive eyes (184/220) and 86.1% of treatment-experienced eyes (1797/2088) showed stable (< 10 letters gained or lost) or improved (≥ 10 letters gained) VA at 12 months. Among treatment-experienced eyes receiving a prior anti-VEGF injection within 365 days before index, 29.5% (594/2015) showed an interval before switching of 8 weeks or more (mean, 7.6 ± 5.5 weeks), whereas 83.1% (1734/2015) showed a brolucizumab injection interval at 12 months of 8 weeks or more (mean, 10.3 ± 4.0 weeks). In all, 77.1% of treatment-experienced eyes (1554/2015) showed an interval extension of 1 week or more; of these, 55.4% (861/1554) showed an extension of 4 weeks or more. CONCLUSIONS In this community-based study, at 12 months, brolucizumab treatment prolonged the interval between anti-VEGF injections for most treatment-experienced eyes, particularly those with shorter intervals before switching, while maintaining or improving VA. With careful balancing of the benefits and risks, switching to brolucizumab treatment may offer the advantage of extending the treatment interval for patients with a high anti-VEGF therapy burden. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S) Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found in the Footnotes and Disclosures at the end of this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathew W MacCumber
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, and Illinois Retina Associates SC, Harvey, Illinois.
| | | | | | - Eser Adiguzel
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., East Hanover, New Jersey
| | | | | | | | | | - Rita Freitas
- Novartis Farma-Produtos Farmacêuticos S.A., Porto Salvo, Portugal
| | - Michael S Ip
- Doheny Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Marco A Zarbin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Timtim E, Weng CY, Finn AP. Safety of recent ophthalmic drugs and devices for wet macular degeneration. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2023; 34:363-368. [PMID: 37326230 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With frequent antivascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) injections well established as the standard of care in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), focus has now shifted towards decreasing treatment burden without compromising safety and efficacy. This review summarizes clinical stage and recently approved drugs and devices for nAMD, with an emphasis paid to safety concerns and their implications for product adoption. RECENT FINDINGS Three strategies have emerged to decrease the treatment burden associated with the current standard of care: more durable intravitreal agents, sustained-release modalities and gene therapy. The appearance of biosimilars will further impact drug availability and cost. As patterns of adverse events emerge from clinical trial or postmarketing surveillance data, manufacturers have proactively responded by appointing independent review committees or issuing voluntary recalls. However, the example of one biosimilar approved outside of the USA and European Union demonstrates how early safety concerns, even when addressed by substantive data, can generate lingering uncertainty. SUMMARY As the number of promising new treatments in nAMD continues to grow, so too does the amount of data that providers must sift through. The perception of safety surrounding first movers in each new therapeutic area is sure to affect adoption of that modality more broadly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise Timtim
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Christina Y Weng
- Cullen Eye Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Avni P Finn
- Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Fabiani C, Agarwal M, Dogra M, Tosi GM, Davis JL. Exogenous Endophthalmitis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:1386-1395. [PMID: 36534597 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2022.2152699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exogenous endophthalmitis (ExE) results from microbial infection as a complication of ocular surgery, penetrating ocular trauma, and intraocular foreign bodies. We herein review the classification of ExE, etiological agents, differential diagnosis and therapeutic challenges. METHODS Narrative Literature Review. RESULTS Identification of the causative agent through ocular fluid analysis is central in the diagnostic work-up of ExE. Prompt intravitreal antimicrobial therapy is key to successful management of ExE and vitrectomy is essential in severe cases. In culture-negative cases, and in the presence of specific features, a diagnosis of sterile intraocular inflammation or toxic syndrome should be suspected. CONCLUSION Strict adherence to treatment guidelines may improve outcomes of ExE, however the ultimate prognosis, especially in severe cases, may depend more on the virulence of the causative organism and associated ocular complications. Accurate differential diagnosis and effective treatment are crucial elements in the management and prognosis of non-infectious masquerades of ExE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Fabiani
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Unit of Ophthalmology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Manisha Agarwal
- Department of Vitreoretina and Uvea, Dr Shroff's Charity Eye Hospital New Delhi, Daryaganj, India
| | - Mohit Dogra
- Advanced Eye Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Gian Marco Tosi
- Department of Medical Sciences, Surgery and Neurosciences, Unit of Ophthalmology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Janet L Davis
- Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|