Ranibizumab for the treatment of choroidal neovascularisation secondary to pathological myopia: interim analysis of the REPAIR study

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

PURPOSE

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

A systematic review of clinical practice guidelines for myopic macular degeneration

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Result of intravitreal aflibercept injection for myopic choroidal neovascularization

Background

The current study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept injections as the primary treatment for subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) by using optical coherence tomography (OCT). Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) was further used for some patients to detect the changes of CNV after treatment.

Methods

In the present study, 21 treatment-naive eyes of 21 patients with subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic CNV received primary intravitreal aflibercept injections and were under follow-up for a minimum duration of 12 months. Among the 21 patients, 12 underwent OCTA to evaluate the changes in central foveal thickness, selected CNV area, and flow area.

Results

The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) pertaining to all the patients significantly improved from the baseline value of 0.7 to 0.3 logMAR after treatment for 12 months (P = 0.001). However, the improvements in the median BCVA after treatment for three and 12 months were not statistically significant in the younger group (< 50 years), compared to the older group (≥ 50 years). One aflibercept injection resolved the CNV in 47.6% (10/21) of the patients. The younger group displayed greater improvement in the median central foveal thickness, compared to the older group.

OCTA revealed interlacing or disorganized pattern at the level of the outer retinal layer in 12 subjects with myopic CNV. After 3 months of treatment, both groups displayed a decrease in the size of the selected CNV area and flow area. The interlacing group displayed a trend towards better anatomical improvements.

Conclusion

Intravitreal aflibercept injection provides long-term improvement in visual acuity in patients with myopic CNV. Eyes with the interlacing pattern on OCTA displayed a greater decrease in size and flow after aflibercept injection.

Trial registration

Before data collection, written informed consent was obtained from each participant, whose identity information was protected by encryption and conversion to a non-identifiable format and removing data links. This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital (KSVGH21-CT1–17).

Safety review of anti-VEGF therapy in patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization

INTRODUCTION

Anti-angiogenesis therapy with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents is now the standard-of-care treatment for myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

AREAS COVERED

We provide a critical review of the safety of all the anti-VEGF agents currently used for treating myopic CNV including ranibizumab, aflibercept, conbercept, bevacizumab, and ziv-aflibercept.

EXPERT OPINION

Anti-VEGF therapy for myopic CNV with the currently available anti-VEGF drugs generally have favorable safety outcomes in the short-term. Nonetheless, ocular adverse events following anti-VEGF therapy for myopic CNV may develop and these include worsening or new development of myopic traction maculopathy, increased risk of retinal detachment, and progression of chorioretinal atrophy. Clinicians should be aware of these potential complications and evaluate them before and after anti-VEGF therapy.

Pilot study of ziv-aflibercept in myopic choroidal neovascularisation patients

Background

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the most common sight-threatening complication associated with high myopia. The present study evaluated the efficacy and safety of the intravitreal injection of ziv-aflibercept in patients with myopic CNV.

Methods

This prospective interventional study was conducted on 20 eyes of 20 patients with active myopic CNV. Twelve patients were 40 years or older. This study was performed in the Ophthalmology Department of Tanta University Eye Hospital, Tanta University, Egypt. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed for all patients at baseline and monthly after injection during the 6-month follow up period. The main outcome measures were changes in BCVA and CMT. The exploratory outcome measures were CNV size, IOP and the number of injections needed in each age group during the study period.

Results

Patients with myopic CNV younger than 40 years needed fewer injections (2.00 ± 0.76) than patients older than 40 years (2.50 ± 1.00), with no statistical significance detected between the two groups (p-value 0.246). CNV was smaller in the younger age group (p-value 0.209), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly in the younger and older age groups (p-values 0.001 and 0.028, respectively), and central macular thickness (CMT) decreased significantly after 6 months, from 242.88 ± 23.83 μm to 191.13 ± 13.83 μm in the younger age group and from 251.33 ± 26.60 μm to 197.08 ± 17.64 μm in the older age group (p = 0.001). No significant correlation was found between the final BCVA and either the spherical equivalent or central macular thickness after 6 months, with p-values of 0.135 and 0.145, respectively. No significant changes in IOP were detected in either group after the intravitreal injection.

Conclusion

Ziv-aflibercept is a highly effective and safe drug in cases of active myopic CNV; however, a larger number of patients and a longer follow-up period are needed to confirm our results.

This study was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrials.gov (ID: NCT04290195) on 26-2-2020.

Real-world effectiveness and safety of ranibizumab for the treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization: Results from the LUMINOUS study

Purpose

To assess the 1-year effectiveness, safety, and treatment patterns of ranibizumab in patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) enrolled in the LUMINOUS study.

Methods

This 5-year, prospective, multicenter, observational, study enrolled 30,138 patients across all approved ranibizumab indications from outpatient ophthalmology clinics. 297 consenting patients (≥18 years) with mCNV who were treatment-naïve or prior-treated with ranibizumab or other ocular treatments were enrolled, and treated with ranibizumab according to the local product label. The main outcomes are visual acuity (VA; Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters or equivalent), adverse events during the study, and treatment exposure over 1 year. Results are presented by prior treatment status of the study eye and injection frequency.

Results

Of the 297 mCNV patients recruited in the study, 108 were treatment-naïve and 175 were prior ranibizumab-treated. At baseline, the mean age of patients was 57.6 years, and 59.0 years and 80.6% and 65.7% were female in the treatment-naïve and prior ranibizumab-treated groups, respectively. Most were Caucasian (treatment-naïve, 88.9%; prior ranibizumab-treated, 86.9%). The mean (±standard deviation [SD]) VA letter changes to 1 year were +9.7 (±17.99) from 49.5 (±20.51) and +1.5 (±13.15) from 58.5 (±19.79) and these were achieved with a mean (SD) of 3.0 (±1.58) and 2.6 (±2.33) injections in the treatment-naïve and prior ranibizumab-treated groups, respectively. Presented by injection frequencies 1–2, 3–4 and ≥5 injections in Year 1, the mean (SD) VA changes were +15.0 (±14.70), +7.7 (±19.91) and −0.7 (±16.05) in treatment-naïve patients and +1.5 (±14.57), +3.1 (±11.53) and −3.6 (±11.97) in prior ranibizumab-treated patients, respectively. The safety profile was comparable with previous ranibizumab studies.

Conclusions

Ranibizumab treatment for mCNV showed robust VA gains in treatment-naïve patients and VA maintenance in prior ranibizumab-treated patients in a clinical practice setting, consisting mainly of Caucasians. No new safety signals were observed during the study.

Long-term outcomes of the intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathologic myopia

PURPOSE

To analyze the long-term outcomes and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab injections in myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

METHODS

A retrospective non-randomized analysis of consecutive cases included 17 eyes from 17 patients with subfoveal myopic CNV, treated with intravitreal ranibizumab with at least 30-month follow-up. The patients received three injections monthly, followed by pro re nata regimen. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement, optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography were carried out at the baseline and at monthly intervals thereafter.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up period was 51 months (range 30-98 months). In 12 patients (70.6%), BCVA improved by at least 1 Snellen line, with at least 3-line improvement observed in the case of 8 eyes (47%). Mean central foveal thickness (CFT) decreased from 384.65 ± 103.3 µm at the baseline to 264 ± 86.2 µm at the last follow-up examination (p < 0.001). The final OCT examination revealed 59% (10/17) eyes with CNV-related macular atrophy. Mean number of injections over the follow-up period was 4.82 ± 2.04 per person. Nine patients (53%) required re-injection of the anti-VEGF agent; the mean number of re-injections in this group was 3.44 ± 1.34 per person (range 2-6). No significant adverse events were recorded during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal ranibizumab is an effective and safe treatment for CNV secondary to pathologic myopia, contributing to long-term vision improvement and CFT reduction.

Twenty-four-month outcomes of inflammatory choroidal neovascularisation treated with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factors: a comparison between two treatment regimens

Background and aim

There is still no established treatment regimen for eyes with inflammatory choroidal neovascularisation (iCNV) treated with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections. This study compared the 24-month outcomes of two treatment regimens of anti-VEGF injections in eyes with iCNV.

Methods

Eyes with iCNV treated with anti-VEGF injections were divided into two groups: eyes treated with a loading phase of 3 monthly injections and then re-treated as needed (LOADING group) and eyes treated as needed from the beginning (PRN group). Visual acuity (VA), number of injections and iCNV recurrences at 24 months were compared between the groups.

Results

Eighty-two eyes were included, 42 in the LOADING and 40 in the PRN group. Baseline VA (mean(SD)) was 57.3 (15.8) letters in the LOADING vs 60.7 (15.6) letters in the PRN group (p=0.32). The VA (mean (95% CI)) increased at 3 months (+14.8 (10.6 to 18.9) and +11.2 (6.4 to 16) letters in the LOADING and PRN group, respectively) and remained significantly higher than baseline over the entire follow-up in both groups (all p<0.001). At 24 months, there was no difference in VA between the LOADING and PRN group (72.3 (14.0) vs 74.7 (11.3) letters, p=0.36) but the LOADING group received significantly more injections (median (Q1–Q3)) than the PRN (4.5 (3–7) vs 2.5 (2–3.2), p<0.0001). The iCNV recurrences were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

iCNV responded well to anti-VEGF with significant and sustained VA improvement. The loading phase did not confer any advantage in terms of outcomes. PRN regimen from the beginning was as effective as more intensive treatment.

Comparison of Intravitreal Aflibercept and Ranibizumab for Treatment of Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization: One-Year Results-A Retrospective, Comparative Study

Purpose

To compare one-year treatment outcomes of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) and intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) for treatment of myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV).

Methods

The medical records of a total of 30 eyes diagnosed with mCNV and underwent IVA or IVR treatment for a minimum one-year follow-up were studied retrospectively. All the subjects had an axial length >26 mm and received a 1 + PRN (pro re nata) regimen IVA or IVR. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thicknesses (CMT) on optical coherence tomography were evaluated before and after treatment.

Results

There were 12 eyes in IVA group, with a mean age of 60.0 ± 10.2 years. The mean BCVA significantly improved from baseline 1.54 ± 0.76 to 0.85 ± 0.61 and the mean CMT significantly decreased from baseline 384.3 ± 119.1 μm to 305.9 ± 75.4 μm to 305.9 ± 75.4 p : 0.024 and p : 0.024 and μm to 305.9 ± 75.4 μm to 305.9 ± 75.4 p : 0.024 and p : 0.024 and p : 0.024 and p : 0.024 and.

Conclusions

Both IVA and IVR treatment modalities resulted in similar anatomical outcomes but IVA had better visual outcomes in treatment of mCNV.

Outcome Predictors of SD-OCT-Driven Intravitreal Ranibizumab in Choroidal Neovascularization due to Myopia

PURPOSE

To analyze the efficacy and outcome predictors of SD-OCT (spectral-domain optical coherence tomography)-driven ranibizumab treatment in patients with choroidal neovascularization due to myopia (mCNV).

METHODS

This prospective investigator-initiated study includes 20 patients with treatment-naïve mCNV. Evaluation included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), morphological SD-OCT parameters, and treatment frequency.

RESULTS

From baseline to month 12, BCVA improved from 58.5 ± 16.9 to 66.1 ± 14.9 letters. Central retinal thickness (CRT) significantly decreased, and qualitative SD-OCT parameters improved. Better baseline visual acuity (VA), lower spherical equivalent, better inner/outer segment line and external limiting membrane integrity showed a significant positive effect on BCVA outcome. Less fluctuation in CRT (worst minus best CRT) indicated better BCVA at 12 months. No serious adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

SD-OCT-guided intravitreal ranibizumab treatment in mCNV was efficient and safe. We determined useful predictive factors in regard to VA outcome after 12 months.

Pharmacotherapy of Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization

BACKGROUND

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a common cause of central visual loss in patients with high myopia, and the most common form of CNV in younger individuals. Pharmacologic therapy is the current mainstay of treatment of these patients.

METHODS

Review of pharmacological treatment options for myopic CNV, which primarily involves intravitreal administration of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents.

RESULTS

At this time, anti-VEGF therapy agents are the first-line therapy in these patients. Comparative trials have not identified any major differences in treatment outcomes between aflibercept, bevacizumab, and ranibizumab. Only ranibizumab is approved for this indication in the US. Best visual outcomes are associated with younger age, smaller lesion size, and absence of chorioretinal atrophy.

CONCLUSION

Anti-VEGF therapy is generally very effective in the treatment of myopic CNV.

EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF RANIBIZUMAB FOR THE TREATMENT OF CHOROIDAL NEOVASCULARIZATION DUE TO UNCOMMON CAUSE: Twelve-Month Results of the MINERVA Study

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text.

Ranibizumab was effective in treating choroidal neovascularization of various etiologies, with a treatment effect of +9.9 letters versus sham at Month 2 and a mean gain of 11.0 letters from baseline to Month 12. The beneficial effects of ranibizumab were observed across all etiology subgroups.

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ranibizumab 0.5 mg in adult patients with choroidal neovascularization because of an uncommon cause enrolled in the 12-month MINERVA study.

Methods:

In this Phase III, double-masked study, adult (≥18 years) patients (N = 178) were randomized 2:1 to receive either ranibizumab (n = 119) or sham (n = 59) at baseline and, if needed, at Month 1 and open-label individualized ranibizumab from Month 2. Best-corrected visual acuity change from baseline to Month 2 (primary endpoint) and Month 12, treatment exposure, and safety over 12 months were reported. Subgroup analysis was conducted on five predefined choroidal neovascularization etiologies (angioid streak, postinflammatory, central serous chorioretinopathy, idiopathic, and miscellaneous).

Results:

Ranibizumab showed superior efficacy versus sham from baseline to Month 2 (adjusted least-squares mean best-corrected visual acuity: +9.5 vs. −0.4 letters; P < 0.001). At Month 12, the mean best-corrected visual acuity change was +11.0 letters (ranibizumab) and +9.3 letters (sham). Across the 5 subgroups, the treatment effect ranged from +5.0 to +14.6 letters. The mean number of ranibizumab injections was 5.8 (ranibizumab arm) with no new ocular or nonocular adverse events.

Conclusion:

Ranibizumab 0.5 mg resulted in clinically significant treatment effect versus sham at Month 2. Overall, ranibizumab was effective in treating choroidal neovascularization of various etiologies with no new safety findings.

Nine-Year Outcome of Ranibizumab Monotherapy for Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Pathologic Myopia

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the 9-year outcome of ranibizumab monotherapy for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV).

METHODS

This was a retrospective, nonrandomized, multicentric study to evaluate the long-term outcomes of mCNV treated with ranibizumab monotherapy for at least 9 years according to a strict pro re nata regimen.

RESULTS

Seventeen eyes of 17 patients (12 women, mean age 57.9 ± 7.7 years) were included. The mean follow-up period was 112.4 ± 3.9 months (range 108-120). The mean difference in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline to the last follow-up was +1.2 ± 15.6 ETDRS letters (p = 0.004, between initial vs. 12 and 24 months). The mean total number of intravitreal injections for each patient was 1.24 ± 1.70 per year (range 2-25). No systemic adverse reactions related to the drug treatment were detected during the 9-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term ranibizumab monotherapy treatment induces unchanged or better BCVA compared to baseline after a 9-year treatment in almost all eyes.

Features of optical coherence tomography predictive of choroidal neovascularisation treatment response in pathological myopia in association with fluorescein angiography

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of several optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings to estimate choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) activity in pathological myopia using fluorescein angiography (FA) as a reference.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, retrospective study. The medical records of patients with active myopic CNV who received intravitreal bevacizumab treatment were reviewed. Parameters to monitor CNV activity were morphological features of CNV on OCT, such as CNV height, central foveal thickness, intraretinal cysts, subretinal fluid, fuzziness of the CNV border, CNV network area on FA, and haemorrhage or exudation on fundus photo.

RESULTS

There were 46 patients with active CNV enrolled in this study. After intravitreal bevacizumab treatment, all the previously mentioned parameters of CNV were significantly improved. Using logistic regression analyses with backward elimination, the fuzzy border seen on OCT showed the most significant correlation with improvement of leakage on FA, when compared with other variables such as intraretinal cysts, subretinal fluid or central foveal thickness (R²=0.324, p=0.009).

CONCLUSION

Our study showed that the fuzziness of the hyper-reflective CNV margin showed the most significant improvement and the strongest correlation with the improvement of CNV leakage on FA after intravitreal bevacizumab injections, suggesting its important role as an OCT parameter for the assessment of myopic CNV activity.

Intravitreal aflibercept for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization associated with pathologic myopia: a pilot study

Purpose

To determine the efficacy of intravitreal aflibercept injections for the treatment of patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with pathologic myopia.

Methods

In this uncontrolled, prospective cohort study, 31 eyes of 30 consecutive patients affected by CNV associated with pathologic myopia were treated with intravitreal aflibercept (2 mg) as needed following two initial monthly doses and observed over a 12-month follow-up period. The primary endpoint was change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at month 12, while central retinal thickness (CRT) on optical coherence tomography (OCT), neovascularization activity on fluorescein angiography, the number of aflibercept injections administered, and safety were examined as secondary endpoints.

Results

Patients received a mean of 2.6 intravitreal aflibercept injections over the 12-month study period. Compared with baseline, BCVA improved significantly at all time points (P<0.05). Mean (standard deviation [SD]) decimal BCVA was 0.2 (0.1) at baseline and 0.35 (0.16) at month 12. The greatest improvement in BCVA was seen within the first 2 months (P=0.01). Mean (SD) CRT on OCT decreased from 285 (62) µm at baseline to 227 (42) µm (P=0.01) at month 12. There was a continuous decrease in mean CRT on OCT over time. No cases of endophthalmitis, uveitis, stroke, or retinal detachment were noted. No patient demonstrated an intraocular pressure >20 mmHg during any study visit.

Conclusion

The 12-month results of intravitreal aflibercept for myopic CNV using an as-needed regimen were positive, showing benefits in visual and anatomic outcomes and an acceptable tolerability profile.

Vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor use and treatment approach for choroidal neovascularization secondary to pathologic myopia

INTRODUCTION

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the most common cause of CNV in those under 50 years of age. It is a significant cause of visual loss in those with pathologic myopia. The current standard of care involves therapy with intravitreal inhibitors of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

AREAS COVERED

The epidemiology of myopia, high myopia, pathologic myopia, and myopic CNV is reviewed, along with a brief discussion of historical treatments. The pharmacology of the three most commonly used anti-VEGF agents is discussed, with an emphasis on the licensed drugs, ranibizumab and aflibercept. A comprehensive clinical approach to diagnosis and treatment of myopic CNV is presented.

EXPERT OPINION

The current standard of care for myopic CNV is intravitreal inhibition of VEGF, with ranibizumab and aflibercept licensed for intraocular use. The diagnosis, OCT features of disease activity and retreatment algorithm for myopic CNV is different from wet age-related macular degeneration. In the long-term, myopic CNV may be associated with gradual, irreversible visual loss due to progressive chorioretinal atrophy, for which there is currently no treatment.

Aflibercept as primary treatment for myopic choroidal neovascularisation: a retrospective study

AIM The aim of this study is to evaluate long-term efficacy of intravitreal injections of aflibercept as primary treatment for subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic choroidal neovascularisation (CNV).METHODS Thirty-eight treatment-naive eyes of thirty-eight patients with subfoveal/juxtafoveal myopic CNV received initial intravitreal aflibercept injections and were followed for at least 18 months. Aflibercept was applied again for persistent or recurrent CNV, as required. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS.RESULTS Mean patient age was 45.8 years, and mean eye refractive error was -7.79 D. For the total patient group (n=38 eyes), mean logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly improved from 0.69 at baseline to 0.15 at 18 months (P<0.01). Over half of the treated eyes obtained resolution with one aflibercept injection. Patients were also grouped according to age, as <50 years (n=20 eyes) and ≥50 years (n=18 eyes). Mean BCVA improvement was significantly greater in eyes of the younger myopic CNV group, compared with those of ≥50 years (0.21 vs 0.35; P<0.05). The mean number of aflibercept injections was 1.8 for the <50 years myopic CNV group, and 3.6 for the ≥50 years myopic CNV group (P<0.001). Correlation between spherical equivalent refraction and final visual acuity reached statistical significance only for the <50 years myopic CNV group (P<0.001; Levene's correlation).CONCLUSIONS Intravitreal aflibercept provides long-term visual acuity improvement in myopic CNV. The <50 years old myopic CNV group had significantly fewer injections, with greater visual acuity improvement. Intravitreal aflibercept in myopic CNV does not require the three-injection loading phase used for aflibercept treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Treatment Satisfaction and Well-Being in Patients with Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization Treated with Ranibizumab in the REPAIR Study

The Ranibizumab for the Treatment of Choroidal Neovascularisation (CNV) Secondary to Pathological Myopia (PM): an Individualized Regimen (REPAIR) trial was a prospective study exploring the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab 0.5 mg using an individualized treatment regimen over 12 months. The current study investigated the impact of treatment with ranibizumab as needed (pro re nata [PRN]) on individuals with myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) in the REPAIR study, using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for treatment satisfaction and well-being. This study included 65 adults with mCNV and a best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) letter score of 24-78 in the study eye. Patients completed the Macular Disease Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire (MacTSQ) at months 1, 6 and 12, and the 12-item Well-Being Questionnaire (W-BQ12) at baseline and months 1, 6 and 12. Subgroup analyses investigated the relationship between PROM scores and treatment in the better- or worse-seeing eye (BSE/WSE), number of injections received, baseline BCVA, BCVA improvement and age. Pearson correlations between change in BCVA, MacTSQ scores and W-BQ12 scores were calculated. The main outcome measures were treatment satisfaction measured with the MacTSQ (score 0-72) and well-being measured with the W-BQ12 (score 0-36). Treatment satisfaction significantly increased over the study period (p = 0.0001). Mean MacTSQ scores increased by 9.7 and 10.0 in patients treated in their WSE and BSE, respectively. Treatment satisfaction was highest in individuals receiving only one injection at month 1; however, by month 12, scores were similar across injection subgroups. Patients aged 68 years or older had the highest MacTSQ scores. Well-being scores also significantly increased over the study period (p = 0.03). Mean W-BQ12 scores increased by 1.7 in patients treated in their WSE and by 2.1 in patients treated in their BSE. Individuals aged 40 years or younger had the greatest increases in general well-being. Patients who experienced stable or improved BCVA at month 12 had greater increases in W-BQ12 scores than those who experienced a decrease. Correlations between BCVA, MacTSQ scores and W-BQ12 scores were largely non-significant. In conclusion, treatment satisfaction and well-being increased during treatment with ranibizumab PRN. Although directly comparable data are limited for the MacTSQ and W-BQ12 in mCNV, these results complement PROM outcomes reported in related studies.

Anti-VEGF therapies in the treatment of choroidal neovascularisation secondary to non-age-related macular degeneration: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to systematically review the evidence for anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy in choroidal neovascularisation secondary to conditions other than age-related macular degeneration.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, MEDLINE in-process, EMBASE and CENTRAL databases and conference abstracts were searched (from inception to Jan 2014).

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA, PARTICIPANTS AND INTERVENTIONS

Randomised and non-randomised comparative studies with follow-up of at least 6 months were included and were used to assess clinical effectiveness.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHOD

Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was not possible due to methodological heterogeneity.

RESULTS

16 studies met the inclusion criteria (1091 eyes; 963 pathological myopia, 74 other conditions). There was large variation in risk of bias across studies. An improvement in best-corrected visual acuity in anti-VEGF arms over comparators was reported in all studies. The proportion of patients improving by at least 15 letters in anti-VEGF arms ranged from 27.3% to 70%. There were no significant differences between bevacizumab and ranibizumab.

LIMITATIONS

Owing to the rarity of choroidal neovascularisation secondary to conditions other than age-related macular degeneration or pathological myopia, there are unlikely to ever be sufficiently powered trials in these populations.

CONCLUSIONS

Bevacizumab and ranibizumab appear to be effective in improving visual acuity for patients with choroidal neovascularisation secondary to conditions other than age-related macular degeneration. The evidence base is strongest for choroidal neovascularisation secondary to pathological myopia, however, based on current evidence and likely pharmacological pathways, clinicians should consider treatment with either bevacizumab or ranibizumab for rarer causes.

Current and emerging treatment options for myopic choroidal neovascularization

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the main cause of visual impairment in highly myopic patients younger than 50 years of age. There are different treatments for myopic CNV (mCNV), with 5- to 10-year outcomes currently. Chorioretinal atrophy is still the most important determinant factor for visual outcome. The purpose of this study is to provide an overview of the current treatments for mCNV, including laser, surgical management, verteporfin photodynamic therapy, and mainly anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. Emerging treatment options are also discussed.

Intravitreal Aflibercept Injection in Patients with Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization: The MYRROR Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate intravitreal aflibercept 2 mg in patients with myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

DESIGN

An international, phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-masked, sham-controlled study.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients aged ≥ 18 years with high myopia (≤-6.0 diopters or axial length of ≥ 26.5 mm), active myopic CNV, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 73-35 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters in the study eye were included.

METHODS

Patients were randomized 3:1 to intravitreal aflibercept or sham. In the intravitreal aflibercept arm, patients received 1 injection at baseline. Additional injections were performed in case of CNV persistence or recurrence at monthly visits through week 44. In the sham arm, patients received sham injections through week 20. At week 24, after assessment of the primary efficacy end point, sham patients received a mandatory intravitreal aflibercept injection followed by intravitreal aflibercept (if disease persisted/recurred) or sham injection every 4 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Mean change in BCVA from baseline to week 24.

RESULTS

A total of 122 patients were randomized to intravitreal aflibercept (n = 91) or sham (n = 31). Baseline demographics were similar across groups. At week 24, patients in the intravitreal aflibercept and sham groups gained 12.1 and lost 2 letters, respectively (P < 0.0001). By week 48, patients in the intravitreal aflibercept and sham/intravitreal aflibercept groups gained 13.5 and 3.9 letters. Patients in the intravitreal aflibercept group received 2 injections (median) in the first study quarter (week 0-8). Median number of injections in quarters 2 to 4 was 0. Patients in the "sham/intravitreal aflibercept" group received 2 and 1 (median) intravitreal aflibercept injections in quarters 3 and 4. Central retinal thickness improved in parallel with visual gains. Incidence of ocular adverse events was similar in both groups through week 48 (37.4% vs. 38.7); most were assessed by investigators as mild. No deaths occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal aflibercept 2 mg was effective for treatment of myopic CNV with clinically important visual and anatomic benefits achieved with a limited number of injections given in the first 8 weeks of treatment. No new safety concerns occurred with treatment. Intravitreal aflibercept should be considered as a treatment option for myopic CNV.

Myopic choroidal neovascularisation: current concepts and update on clinical management

Choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) is a common vision-threatening complication of myopia and pathological myopia. Despite significant advances in understanding the epidemiology, pathogenesis and natural history of myopic CNV, there is no standard definition of myopic CNV and its relationship to axial length and other myopic degenerative changes. Several treatments are available to ophthalmologists, but with the advent of new therapies there is a need for further consensus and clinical management recommendations. Verteporfin photodynamic therapy has been an established treatment for subfoveal myopic CNV for many years, but this treatment does not restore visual acuity and is associated with long-term chorioretinal atrophy. More recently, clinical trials investigating the efficacy and safety of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents in patients with myopic CNV have demonstrated substantial visual acuity gains and quality of life increases compared with photodynamic therapy. These enhanced outcomes provide updated evidence-based clinical management guidelines of myopic CNV, and increase the need for a generally accepted definition for myopic CNV. This review critically summarises the latest myopic CNV literature in the context of clinical experience and recommends a myopic CNV treatment algorithm.

Fluorescein angiography and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for monitoring anti-VEGF therapy in myopic choroidal neovascularization

AIM

To evaluate the agreement between fluorescein angiography (FA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in detecting myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) activity during bevacizumab treatment.

METHODS

Thirty-four patients with subfoveal myopic CNV were prospectively enrolled. FA and SD-OCT were performed at baseline and at all planned monthly visits. After the first injection, additional treatments were administered following detection of fluid on SD-OCT and/or leakage on FA. κ-Analysis was performed to examine the agreement between FA and SD-OCT.

RESULTS

At baseline, FA and SD-OCT agreed in 26/34 cases (κ=0.23); sensitivity and specificity were 77.4 and 66.7%, respectively. Seven eyes presented leakage on FA with no fluid on SD-OCT, 1 case showed intraretinal fluid on SD-OCT and no leakage on FA. At the 1-month examination, specificity and κ-value improved, and 30/34 cases showed complete concordance. At the 3- and 4-month examinations, a discordance was noted in 6 cases. From the 5-month examination on, a correspondence was achieved in at least 30/34 cases and reached a perfect match in 11 sessions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms the key role of FA in diagnosing myopic CNV. It seems possible there may be a role for SD-OCT in assisting FA to monitor the myopic CNV activity during anti-vascular endothelial growth factor antibody treatment.