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Pockar S, Leal I, Chhabra R, Jones NP, Steeples LR. Intravitreal Fluocinolone 0.19mg Implant in the Management of Chronic Non-Infectious Uveitis: 12-Month Outcomes from a Single Tertiary Centre. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2023; 31:1572-1578. [PMID: 34124978 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1922707] [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: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM To present efficacy and safety of 0.19 mg fluocinolone acetonide insert (FAi) to treat chronic noninfectious uveitis (NIU) in a single referral center. METHODS A retrospective observational clinical study of 11 eyes with NIU complicated by chronic cystoid macular edema (CMO). RESULTS The main indication for treatment was chronic CMO in all 11 eyes. The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) at baseline was 435 μm ± 176, improving to 296 μm ± 67 at 12 months. Raised intraocular pressure (IOP) was the commonest adverse event. An IOP >21 mmHg was observed in three eyes, and >30 mmHg in one eye, managed with topical therapy. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was stable at 12 months. There were no observed recurrences of uveitis. Two eyes received adjunctive treatment for worsening CRT. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest FAi is an effective maintenance treatment for NIU with favorable functional and anatomical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasa Pockar
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Inês Leal
- Ophthalmology Department, Hospital de Santa Maria, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Centro Académico de Medicina de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Centro de Estudos das Ciências da Visão, Clínica Universitária de Oftalmologia, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ramandeep Chhabra
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nicholas P Jones
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Laura R Steeples
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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2
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The Use of Sustained Release Intravitreal Steroid Implants in Non-Infectious Uveitis Affecting the Posterior Segment of the Eye. Ophthalmol Ther 2022; 11:479-487. [PMID: 35092605 PMCID: PMC8800436 DOI: 10.1007/s40123-022-00456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The treatment of non-infectious uveitis affecting the posterior segment of the eye has been revolutionized by the development of sustained-release corticosteroid implants over the past decade. Their use is now supported by healthcare systems that have licensed and commissioned them on the basis of the high-quality randomised controlled trials that formed part of their development and which have informed clinicians as to their benefits and risks. In particular, they have provided an alternative mode of treatment for patients who do not wish to be systemically immunosuppressed, or in whom such immunosuppression is less desirable, such as those with unilateral disease or those with concurrent illnesses such as diabetes mellitus, renal disease or osteoporosis that are negatively impacted by systemic corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive agents. In this article, we review the evidence for the use of the major licensed corticosteroid implants and assess the advantages and disadvantages of each.
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3
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Shome A, Mugisho OO, Niederer RL, Rupenthal ID. Blocking the inflammasome: A novel approach to treat uveitis. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:2839-2857. [PMID: 34229084 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Uveitis is a complex ocular inflammatory disease often accompanied by bacterial or viral infections (infectious uveitis) or underlying autoimmune diseases (non-infectious uveitis). Treatment of the underlying infection along with corticosteroid-mediated suppression of acute inflammation usually resolves infectious uveitis. However, to develop more effective therapies for non-infectious uveitis and to better address acute inflammation in infectious disease, an improved understanding of the underlying inflammatory pathways is needed. In this review, we discuss the disease aetiology, preclinical in vitro and in vivo uveitis models, the role of inflammatory pathways, as well as current and future therapies. In particular, we highlight the involvement of the inflammasome in the development of non-infectious uveitis and how it could be a future target for effective treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avik Shome
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Odunayo O Mugisho
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rachael L Niederer
- Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland District Health Board, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ilva D Rupenthal
- Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, New Zealand National Eye Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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4
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Kim BH, Park UC, Park SW, Yu HG. Ultra-Widefield Fluorescein Angiography to Monitor Therapeutic Response to Adalimumab in Behcet's Uveitis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:1347-1353. [PMID: 33793368 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1872652] [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: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the role of ultra-widefield fluorescein angiography (UWFA) for monitoring therapeutic response to adalimumab in patients with Behcet's uveitis.Methods: Patients with Behcet's uveitis treated with adalimumab for ≥30 weeks were included. Intraocular inflammation, best-corrected visual acuity, systemic medications, and UWFA scores were evaluated.Results: Thirty-eight eyes of 20 patients were included. Significant decreases in grading of anterior chamber cells and vitreous haze were observed at 6, 14, and 30 weeks after adalimumab administration (p < .001 for all). UWFA scores on vascular and capillary leakage were decreased at week 6 and further improved at weeks 14 and 30. Moreover, UWFA score further decreased at 14 and 30 weeks, even after manifest inflammation became quiescent at 6 weeks. (p = .004 and 0.001, respectively).Conclusion: UWFA scores significantly improved in Behcet's uveitis patients treated with adalimumab, and further improvement of UWFA scores was found in patients with a clinically quiescent inflammatory state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Hee Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Un Chul Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Wook Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyeong Gon Yu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University College of Medicine and Seoul National University Hospital, Republic of Korea, Seoul, Korea.,Retinal Degeneration Laboratory, Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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5
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Serial changes in the aqueous IL-10 level after intravitreal methotrexate injection as an indicator of primary vitreoretinal lymphoma recurrence. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15992. [PMID: 33009434 PMCID: PMC7532210 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73111-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary vitreoretinal lymphoma (PVRL) often masquerades as other uveitic diseases. We investigated the aqueous cytokine level changes and the effects of intraocular methotrexate (MTX) in patients with PVRL. In this retrospective consecutive case-series study, we reviewed the records of 14 consecutive patients with PVRL treated between 2018 and 2020. The concentrations of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-17, interferon (IFN)-γ, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined at baseline and several time points after intravitreal MTX injections during follow-up. Markedly elevated IL-10 levels and a higher IL-10/IL-6 ratio were found in patients with PVRL. The aqueous levels of IL-10, IL-12, and TNF-α, and the IL-10/IL-6 ratio significantly decreased at 1 month after intravitreal MTX therapy onset compared with the baseline values (P = 0.001, 0.002, 0.001, and 0.001, respectively). The mean duration to normalized IL-10 levels was 1.17 ± 0.4 months. Where serially recorded IL-10 levels were available, regular intravitreal MTX treatment was associated with rapid reduction in IL-10 levels, while elevated IL-10 level was associated with disease recurrence. Elevated IL-10 levels and high IL-10/IL-6 ratio may aid in the diagnosis of PVRL. Aqueous IL-10 level monitoring can help assess the therapeutic response and indicate disease recurrence.
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6
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Kasper M, Gabriel D, Möller M, Bauer D, Wildschütz L, Courthion H, Rodriguez-Aller M, Busch M, Böhm MRR, Loser K, Thanos S, Gurny R, Heiligenhaus A. Cyclosporine A-Loaded Nanocarriers for Topical Treatment of Murine Experimental Autoimmune Uveoretinitis. Mol Pharm 2018; 15:2539-2547. [PMID: 29912566 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.8b00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, tissue distribution and the therapeutic effect of topically applied cyclosporine A (CsA)-loaded methoxy-poly(ethylene-glycol)-hexyl substituted poly(lactic acid) (mPEGhexPLA) nanocarriers (ApidSOL) on experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) were investigated. The CsA-loaded mPEGhexPLA nanocarrier was tolerated well locally and showed no signs of immediate toxicity after repeated topical application in mice with EAU. Upon unilateral CsA treatment, CsA accumulated predominantly in the corneal and sclera-choroidal tissue of the treated eye and in lymph nodes (LN). This regimen reduced EAU severity in treated eyes compared to PBS-treated controls. This improvement was accompanied by reduced T-cell count, T-cell proliferation, and IL-2 secretion of cells from ipsilateral LN. In conclusion, topical treatment with CsA-loaded mPEGhexPLA nanocarriers significantly improves the outcome of EAU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maren Kasper
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophtha-Lab , St. Franziskus Hospital , Münster 48145 , Germany
| | | | - Michael Möller
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva and University of Lausanne, Geneva 1221 , Switzerland
| | - Dirk Bauer
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophtha-Lab , St. Franziskus Hospital , Münster 48145 , Germany
| | - Lena Wildschütz
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophtha-Lab , St. Franziskus Hospital , Münster 48145 , Germany
| | | | - Marta Rodriguez-Aller
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva and University of Lausanne, Geneva 1221 , Switzerland
| | - Martin Busch
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophtha-Lab , St. Franziskus Hospital , Münster 48145 , Germany
| | - Michael R R Böhm
- Department of Ophthalmology, Clinic for Diseases of the Anterior Segments of the Eyes , Essen University Hospital , Essen 45147 , Germany
| | | | | | - Robert Gurny
- Apidel SA , Geneva 1201 , Switzerland.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva and University of Lausanne, Geneva 1221 , Switzerland
| | - Arnd Heiligenhaus
- Department of Ophthalmology and Ophtha-Lab , St. Franziskus Hospital , Münster 48145 , Germany.,University of Duisburg-Essen , Essen 47057 , Germany
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7
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Gu R, Ding X, Tang W, Lei B, Jiang C, Xu G. A Synthesized Glucocorticoid- Induced Leucine Zipper Peptide Inhibits Retinal Müller Cell Gliosis. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:331. [PMID: 29681857 PMCID: PMC5897418 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: The anti-inflammatory activities of protein glucocorticoid-induced leucine zipper (GILZ) have been demonstrated in vivo and in vitro. Here, we examined the potential effect of a synthetic peptide derived from the leucine zipper motif and proline-rich region of GILZ on suppressing inflammatory responses in primary cultured rat Müller cells. Methods: Peptides were selected from amino acids 98–134 of the GILZ protein (GILZ-p). Solid-phase peptide synthesis was used to generate the cell-penetrating peptide TAT, which was bound to the amino terminus of GILZ-p. Primary cultured retinal Müller cells were stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) alone or in combination with different concentrations of GILZ-p, and the interaction of GILZ-p with nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65 in Müller cells was investigated by western blotting, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence. The expression of the Müller cell gliosis marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), functional protein aquaporin (AQP)-4, and the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 was measured by Western Blotting. The concentration of those cytokines in culture medium was measured by using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Results: The synthesized GILZ-p, which was water-soluble, entered cells and bound with NF-κB p65, inhibiting p65 nuclear translocation. GILZ-p inhibited the LPS-induced expression of GFAP, IL-1β, TNFα, ICAM-1, and MCP-1 in Müller cells and prevented the LPS-induced downregulation of AQP4. Conclusions: These results indicate that GILZ-p interacted with NF-κB p65 and suppressed p65 nuclear translocation, thereby inhibiting inflammatory cytokine release and Müller cell gliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiping Gu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyi Ding
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenyi Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Boya Lei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chen Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gezhi Xu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Visual Impairment and Restoration, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Myopia of State Health Ministry, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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8
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Sheppard J, Joshi A, Betts KA, Hudgens S, Tari S, Chen N, Skup M, Dick AD. Effect of Adalimumab on Visual Functioning in Patients With Noninfectious Intermediate Uveitis, Posterior Uveitis, and Panuveitis in the VISUAL-1 and VISUAL-2 Trials. JAMA Ophthalmol 2017; 135:511-518. [PMID: 28426849 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2017.0603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Importance Adalimumab was recently approved for the treatment of noninfectious intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis. Objective To assess the effect of adalimumab on the visual functioning and quality of life in patients with corticosteroid-dependent noninfectious intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis. Design A post hoc analysis of clinical trials of adults with active (VISUAL-1) and inactive (VISUAL-2) noninfectious intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis was conducted in the United States, Canada, Europe, Israel, Australia, Latin America, and Japan. A total of 217 patients (110 adalimumab, 107 placebo) in VISUAL-1 and 226 patients (115 adalimumab, 111 placebo) in VISUAL-2 were studied using intent-to-treat analyses. The clinical trials were conducted between August 10, 2010, and May 14, 2015. Interventions In VISUAL-1 and VISUAL-2, patients were randomized to receive adalimumab, 80-mg, subcutaneous loading dose followed by 40 mg every other week or placebo for 80 weeks. All patients underwent prednisone tapering, with patients in VISUAL-1 receiving an initial prednisone burst. Main Outcomes and Measures The 25-item National Eye Institute Vision Function Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25) composite score questionnaire assessed the impact of visual impairment from the patient's perspective; scores on the questionnaire range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better vision-related quality of life. The change in NEI VFQ-25 from best state achieved prior to week 6 (VISUAL-1) and from baseline state (VISUAL-2) to the final or early termination visit was determined in each group and statistically compared using analysis of variance. The temporal effects of adalimumab and placebo on NEI VFQ-25 were investigated using a longitudinal model. Results Of the 217 patients in VISUAL-1, 124 (57.1%) were women; the mean (SD) age was 42.7 (14.9) years. Of the 226 patients in VISUAL-2, 138 (61.1%) were women; the mean (SD) age was 42.5 (13.4). In VISUAL-1, the change from final score to best score in NEI VFQ-25 was -1.30 for adalimumab and -5.50 for placebo-a difference of 4.20 (95% CI, 1.04 to 7.36; P = .01) associated with adalimumab compared with placebo. In VISUAL-2, the change from baseline NEI VFQ-25 was 3.36 for adalimumab and 1.24 for placebo-a difference of 2.12 (95% CI, -0.81 to 5.04; P = .16). In both trials, the longitudinal models showed a significant difference in NEI VFQ-25 between adalimumab and placebo of 3.07 (95% CI, 2.09 to 4.06; P < .001) and 4.66 (95% CI, 0.05 to 9.26; P = .048) in the VISUAL-1 (74.15 vs 71.08) and VISUAL-2 (82.39 vs 77.73) trials, respectively. Conclusions and Relevance This post hoc analysis suggests that adalimumab is associated with statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported visual functioning for patients with noninfectious intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifiers: NCT01138657 (VISUAL-1) and NCT01124838 (VISUAL-2).
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Affiliation(s)
- John Sheppard
- Virginia Eye Consultants, Norfolk2Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Andrew D Dick
- Bristol Eye Hospital, University of Bristol, Bristol, England7National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England8Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London, England
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9
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Whitcup SM, Robinson MR. Development of a dexamethasone intravitreal implant for the treatment of noninfectious posterior segment uveitis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/nyas.12824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott M. Whitcup
- Jules Stein Eye Institute David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California at Los Angeles Los Angeles California
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10
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Abstract
Uveitis is a group of inflammatory ocular conditions that cause significant visual morbidity around the world. Many of the cases of blindness secondary to uveitis can be avoided with adequate and aggressive management of the intraocular inflammation. Steroids have been utilized in the treatment of noninfectious uveitis for more than 60 years, but their chronic use is associated with severe ocular and systemic side-effects. Ophthalmologists are often not familiar with the systemic steroid-sparing agents available for the management of ocular inflammation and depend primarily on the use of corticosteroids. In this article, we review the most common agents utilized in the treatment of uveitis and their side-effect profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Uchiyama
- Department of Ophthalmology , Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Massachusetts , USA and
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11
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Suresh PK, Sah AK. Nanocarriers for ocular delivery for possible benefits in the treatment of anterior uveitis: focus on current paradigms and future directions. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2014; 11:1747-68. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.938045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Preeti K Suresh
- University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University,
Raipur-492010, (C.G.), India
| | - Abhishek K Sah
- Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, University Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Technology,
Raipur-492010, (C.G.), India
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12
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Wakefield D. Does Cyclophosphamide Still Have a Role in the Treatment of Severe Inflammatory Eye Disease? Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2013; 22:306-10. [DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2013.854395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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13
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Systemic treatments for noninfectious vitreous inflammation. Mediators Inflamm 2013; 2013:515312. [PMID: 24347829 PMCID: PMC3853923 DOI: 10.1155/2013/515312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitreous inflammation, or vitritis, may result from many causes, including both infectious and noninfectious, including rheumatologic and autoimmune processes. Vitritis is commonly vision threatening and has serious sequelae. Treatment is frequently challenging, but, today, there are multiple methods of systemic treatment for vitritis. These categories include corticosteroids, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, T-cell inhibitors/calcineurin inhibitors, and biologic agents. These treatment categories were reviewed last year, but, even over the course of just a year, many therapies have made progress, as we have learned more about their indications and efficacy. We discuss here discoveries made over the past year on both existing and new drugs, as well as reviewing mechanisms of action, clinical dosages, specific conditions that are treated, adverse effects, and usual course of treatment for each class of therapy.
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14
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Forrester JV, Steptoe RJ, Klaska IP, Martin-Granados C, Dua HS, Degli-Esposti MA, Wikstrom ME. Cell-based therapies for ocular inflammation. Prog Retin Eye Res 2013; 35:82-101. [PMID: 23542232 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2012] [Revised: 01/31/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Since the plasticity and the potential for re-programming cells has become widely accepted, there has been great interest in cell-based therapies. These are being applied to a range of diseases, not least ocular diseases, where it is assumed that there is a reduced risk of immune rejection although this may be more perceived than real. There are two broad classes of cell-based therapies: those aimed at restoring structure and function of specific tissues and cells; and those directed towards restoring immunological homeostasis by controlling the damaging effects of inflammatory disease. Stem cells of all types represent the first group and prototypically have been used with the aim of regenerating failing cells. In contrast, immune cells have been suggested as potential modulators of inflammation. However, there is functional overlap in these two applications, with some types of stem cells, such as mesenchymal stem cells, demonstrating a potent immunomodulatory effect. This review summarises recent information on cell based therapies for ocular disease, with special emphasis on ocular inflammatory disease, and explores current uses, potential and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John V Forrester
- Immunology Program, Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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15
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Heiligenhaus A, Zurek-Imhoff B, Roesel M, Hennig M, Rammrath D, Heinz C. Everolimus for the treatment of uveitis refractory to cyclosporine A: a pilot study. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2012; 251:143-52. [PMID: 23073842 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-012-2163-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2012] [Revised: 08/14/2012] [Accepted: 09/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study investigated the efficacy of everolimus, a potent inhibitor of T lymphocyte proliferation, for treating noninfectious uveitis. The study design was an open-label prospective trial. METHODS Twelve patients with severe chronic uveitis (anterior and intermediate n = 9, panuveitis n = 3) refractive to cyclosporine A (CsA) received additional everolimus. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE the primary outcome measure was uveitis inactivity at 3 months. Secondary outcome measures were uveitis recurrence, visual acuity (BCVA), laser flare photometry values, cystoid macular edema, and tapering of concomitant corticosteroids and/or immunosuppressive drugs in 12 months with the addition of everolimus and after withdrawing everolimus. Percentages of peripheral blood CD3(+)CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) cells were studied. RESULTS At month 3 with everolimus, uveitis was inactive in all patients. By 12 months, uveitis had recurred in four patients after tapering (n = 2) or withdrawing (n = 2) CsA. BCVA remained stable in all patients, mean foveal thickness (OCT) was slightly reduced from 308 μm at baseline to 255 μm (p = 0.1), and mean flare values were slightly reduced from 27.8 to 19.3 photons/msec (p = 0.1). It was possible to achieve a 50 % dose reduction of systemic prednisone (n = 8) or CsA (n = 8). After withdrawing everolimus, uveitis recurred in 50 % within 1 month; by 6 months, BCVA dropped ≥2 lines in five patients, and prednisone use increased ≥50 % in four patients. The percentage of peripheral blood CD3(+)CD4(+)CD25(+)FoxP3(+) T cells increased during the everolimus treatment, and dropped after withdrawal. CONCLUSIONS Uveitis inactivity was achieved with the addition of everolimus in patients with chronic, CsA-refractive anterior and intermediate uveitis, or panuveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnd Heiligenhaus
- Department of Ophthalmology, St. Franziskus Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Muenster, Germany.
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16
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Systemic treatment of vitreous inflammation. Mediators Inflamm 2012; 2012:936721. [PMID: 23028205 PMCID: PMC3457724 DOI: 10.1155/2012/936721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non infectious vitreous inflammation is often vision threatening and can be associated with potentially life-threatening systemic conditions. Treatment is often challenging as it involves systemic medications that can be associated with adverse effects. The classes of drugs are ever expanding and include corticosteroids, antimetabolites, alkylating agents, T-cell and calcineurin agents, biologic agents, and interferons. Each class of systemic therapy for non-infectious vitreous inflammation is reviewed. We discuss the mechanisms of action, usual clinical dosages, the specific conditions that are treated, the adverse effects, and usual course of treatment for each class of therapy.
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Hunter RS, Lobo AM. Dexamethasone intravitreal implant for the treatment of noninfectious uveitis. Clin Ophthalmol 2011; 5:1613-21. [PMID: 22140307 PMCID: PMC3225458 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s17419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveitis can be a sight-threatening eye disease with significant morbidity. Corticosteroids remain the mainstay of treatment of uveitis and provide an effective treatment against ocular inflammation. However, the various modes available for corticosteroid drug delivery can carry significant ocular and systemic side effects which can limit their use in the treatment of uveitis. In an effort to avoid the damage to ocular structures that can ensue with recurrent episodes of ocular inflammation, the side effects associated with systemic steroids, and the need for repeated administration of both topical and locally injected corticosteroids, sustained-release intraocular corticosteroid implants have been developed. The dexamethasone (DEX) drug delivery system (Ozurdex(®); Allergan Inc, Irvine, CA), is a biodegradable intravitreal implant. This implant has been shown to be effective in the treatment of macular edema and noninfectious posterior uveitis and has been approved by the FDA for these entities. This review will highlight the current methods available for corticosteroid delivery to the eye with a particular emphasis on the DEX intravitreal implant and the evidence currently available for its use in noninfectious uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S Hunter
- Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Yeh S, Nussenblatt RB, Levy-Clarke GA. Emerging biologics in the treatment of uveitis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2010; 3:781-96. [PMID: 20477028 DOI: 10.1586/1744666x.3.5.781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The pathogenic mechanisms underlying uveitis syndromes continue to be evaluated using animal models and in the clinical setting. As the complex interactions between ocular immune cells, proinflammatory cytokines, chemokines and cellular adhesion molecules are uncovered, targeted therapies directed against these immune mediators will continue to be developed. Traditional immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids and steroid-sparing immunomodulatory agents, have demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of uveitic syndromes, but side effects and drug toxicities often limit the use of these medications. The biologic agents, a newer class of medications, target specific immune pathways and have demonstrated efficacy in rheumatologic, dermatologic and neurologic conditions. Biologic therapies (e.g., TNF-alpha inhibitors and IL-2 receptor inhibitor) targeting ocular immune cell surface receptors, cytokines and chemokines continue to be developed and have shown promise in the treatment of uveitis and ocular inflammatory diseases. Clinical and basic aspects of monoclonal antibody therapy for uveitis are presented in this review. Additional studies are needed to further evaluate the role of monoclonal antibodies in the therapeutic armamentarium for uveitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Yeh
- National Eye Institute/National Institutes of Health, Laboratory of Immunology, MSC 1857, 10 Center Dr., Bethesda, MD 20892-1857, USA.
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Orsoni JG, Zavota L, Mora P, Rubino P, Manzotti F, Pellistri I. Discontinuous drug combination therapy in autoimmune ocular disorders. Acta Ophthalmol 2009; 87:340-5. [PMID: 18785963 DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2008.01256.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a steroid-sparing immunosuppressive treatment (IST) protocol in the control of severe or steroid-resistant autoimmune ocular inflammatory diseases. METHODS We carried out a prospective, non-randomized clinical study. Patients presenting with ocular inflammations that failed to respond adequately to steroids alone after monotherapy for a mean period of 9 +/- 2 months (internal control) were offered the option to switch to a combined IST. The protocol consisted of different immunosuppressive drugs added in a stepladder sequence, where each drug (including the steroids) was administered discontinuously. Main outcome measures were control of inflammation, visual acuity and safety of treatment. RESULTS A total of 76 subjects (121 affected eyes) enrolled in the IST protocol. Mean length of follow-up was 43 +/- 15 months. Complete control of inflammation was achieved in 86% of patients. During the first year of IST, the rate of inflammatory recurrences/patient was 0.78 +/- 1.13. This ratio diminished further during succeeding follow-up. Mean best corrected visual acuity improved from 0.31 logMAR to 0.24 logMAR (p < 0.001). Blood pressure and uric acid blood levels significantly altered for the worse in the study group. CONCLUSIONS Immunosuppressive treatment was effective in achieving inflammatory quiescence in a large majority of patients. The study also demonstrated the longterm safety of the protocol and its steroid-sparing effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelka G Orsoni
- Department of Cervico-Facial Sciences, Institute of Ophthalmology, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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Bevacizumab (avastin) and ranibizumab (lucentis) for choroidal neovascularization in multifocal choroiditis. Retina 2009; 29:8-12. [PMID: 18784620 DOI: 10.1097/iae.0b013e318187aff9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multifocal choroiditis (MFC) is an inflammatory condition, occasionally associated with choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Bevacizumab (Avastin) and ranibizumab (Lucentis) are therapies that target vascular endothelial growth factor. Bevacizumab and ranibizumab have been used successfully to treat CNV in age-related and myopic macular degeneration. PURPOSE : To describe the treatment of MFC-associated CNV with intravitreal bevacizumab and/or ranibizumab. DESIGN Retrospective interventional case series. PARTICIPANTS Six eyes of five patients with MFC-associated CNV were treated with intravitreal bevacizumab and/or ranibizumab. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Visual acuity at 1, 3, and 6 months after the initial injection. RESULTS Previous therapies (number of eyes treated) included sub-Tenon's corticosteroids (2), intravitreal corticosteroids (1), photodynamic therapy (1), and thermal laser (1). The mean number (range) of antivascular endothelial growth factor injections per eye was 2.3 (1-6). The mean duration (range) of follow-up per patient was 41.5 (25-69) weeks. Five of six eyes improved to 20/30 acuity or better at 6 months. One eye suffered a subfoveal rip of the retinal pigment epithelium with 20/400 acuity. There was a qualitative decrease in clinical and angiographic evidence of CNV. CONCLUSIONS Bevacizumab and ranibizumab were effective at improving visual acuity over 6 months in a small series of patients with MFC-associated CNV. Tears of the retinal pigment epithelium may occur after intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy in MFC-associated CNV.
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Anglade E, Aspeslet LJ, Weiss SL. A new agent for the treatment of noninfectious uveitis: rationale and design of three LUMINATE (Lux Uveitis Multicenter Investigation of a New Approach to Treatment) trials of steroid-sparing voclosporin. Clin Ophthalmol 2008; 2:693-702. [PMID: 19668418 PMCID: PMC2699819 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s2452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveitis is an inflammatory, putative Th1-mediated autoimmune disease that affects various parts of the eye and is a leading cause of visual loss. Currently available therapies are burdened with toxicities and/or lack definitive evidence of efficacy. Voclosporin, a rationally designed novel calcineurin inhibitor, exhibits a favorable safety profile, a strong correlation between pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic response, and a wide therapeutic window. The LUMINATE (Lux Uveitis Multicenter Investigation of a New Approach to TrEatment) clinical development program was initiated in 2007 to assess the safety and efficacy of voclosporin for the treatment, maintenance, and control of all forms of noninfectious uveitis. If LUMINATE is successful, voclosporin will become the first Food and Drug Administration-approved corticosteroid-sparing agent for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eddy Anglade
- Lux Biosciences Inc., Harborside Financial Center, Plaza 10, 14th Floor, Jersey City, NJ, USA.
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Jaffe GJ. Reimplantation of a fluocinolone acetonide sustained drug delivery implant for chronic uveitis. Am J Ophthalmol 2008; 145:667-675. [PMID: 18226800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2007.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2007] [Revised: 11/09/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the effects of a second fluocinolone implant inserted in eyes with uveitis in which recurrent inflammation developed after the original implant was placed. DESIGN Prospective, interventional trial. METHODS Study subjects comprised all consecutive patients with noninfectious posterior uveitis who were treated at the Duke Eye Center from March 2004 to July 2007, and followed for at least nine months, in whom a fluocinolone acetonide implant was initially inserted, and in whom the implant was replaced, or a second implant was inserted because of recurrent inflammation. The main outcome measures were inflammation recurrences, use of adjunctive anti-inflammatory therapy, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), and adverse events. RESULTS Seventeen eyes of 14 patients were studied. The mean time from original fluocinolone implantation to first uveitis recurrence was 38 months. The time from first inflammation recurrence to the second implantation was eight months. The average follow-up was 17 months. Inflammation developed in only one eye during follow-up, three years after the second fluocinolone implant insertion. Adjunctive steroid use was decreased significantly. The mean snellen visual acuity 12 months after the second implant insertion was 20/78, compared with 20/400 at the time of the original fluocinolone implant placement (P = .04). The average IOP was unchanged after surgery compared with the preoperative IOP. CONCLUSIONS The fluocinolone implant controls ocular inflammation for an average of three years after initial insertion. After the implant is depleted of drug, inflammation may recur. Placement of a new implant maintains the eye in a quiet state and stabilizes or improves visual acuity for an extended time. Adverse events during insertion of a new implant are uncommon.
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Advances in the diagnosis and immunotherapy for ocular inflammatory disease. Semin Immunopathol 2008; 30:145-64. [PMID: 18320151 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-008-0109-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2008] [Accepted: 02/04/2008] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Significant advances in the diagnosis and therapy for uveitis have been made to improve the quality of care for patients with ocular inflammatory diseases. While traditional ophthalmic examination techniques, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography continue to play a major role in the evaluation of patients with uveitis, the advent of spectral domain optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence into clinical practice provides additional information about disease processes. Polymerase chain reaction and cytokine diagnostics have also continued to play a greater role in the evaluation of patients with inflammatory diseases. The biologic agents, a group of medications that targets cytokines and other soluble mediators of inflammation, have demonstrated promise in targeted immunotherapy for specific uveitic entities. Their ophthalmic indications have continued to expand, improving the therapeutic armentarium of uveitis specialists.
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Saligan LN, Levy-Clarke G. Management of intraocular inflammation. Nurse Pract 2007; 32:8-11. [PMID: 18043403 DOI: 10.1097/01.npr.0000300819.36346.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Leorey N Saligan
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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Anglade E, Yatscoff R, Foster R, Grau U. Next-generation calcineurin inhibitors for ophthalmic indications. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2007; 16:1525-40. [DOI: 10.1517/13543784.16.10.1525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Brumm MV, Nguyen QD. Fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal sustained release device--a new addition to the armamentarium of uveitic management. Int J Nanomedicine 2007; 2:55-64. [PMID: 17722513 PMCID: PMC2673825 DOI: 10.2147/nano.2007.2.1.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Uveitis is a potentially sight-threatening inflammatory eye disease caused by multiple infectious and non-infectious etiologies for which the standard of care involves corticosteroids or various immunomodulary therapy (IMT) drugs. These available treatments, although effective, may cause significant morbidity and sometimes mortality in uveitis patients due to their toxic side-effects and the necessity of long-term therapy to prevent recurrences. In order to avoid the systemic toxicity of corticosteroids and IMT or the repeated injections of local steroids necessary to control ocular inflammation, and to prevent development of cumulative damage resulting from recurrent episodes of inflammation, researchers have developed a number of local corticosteroid sustained-release devices that can be implanted directly into the vitreous of the eye, at the site of the inflammatory disease. Preliminary studies of such a device, the fluocinolone acetonide (Retisert™) implant, have shown significant reductions in the number of inflammatory episodes and decreased reliance on systemic corticosteroids or other IMT. This review explores the current research evaluating the fluocinolone sustained-release intravitreal implant in the treatment of posterior uveitis and the implications for its future use on a wider scale.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Quan Dong Nguyen
- Correspondence: Quan Dong Nguyen, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA, Email
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Hogan AC, McAvoy CE, Dick AD, Lee RWJ. Long-term Efficacy and Tolerance of Tacrolimus for the Treatment of Uveitis. Ophthalmology 2007; 114:1000-6. [PMID: 17467532 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2007.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2006] [Revised: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the long-term efficacy and tolerance of tacrolimus for the treatment of uveitis. DESIGN Retrospective case series. PARTICIPANTS Sixty-two consecutive patients with noninfectious uveitis treated with tacrolimus at a single academic referral center between April 2000 and April 2004. METHODS A standard data set was obtained from patients' medical records and analyzed according to the recommendations of the Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature Working Group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES (1) Rate of tapering oral prednisone to 10 mg daily, (2) requirement for alternative second-line immunosuppressive therapy, and (3) rate of tacrolimus dose reduction or discontinuation due to side effects. RESULTS In this cohort with well-established ocular inflammation, patients successfully tapered their oral prednisone to 10 mg daily at an average rate of 1.62 per patient-year (PY), with an 85% probability of achieving < or =10 mg after 1 year 2 months of treatment. Tacrolimus was discontinued due to intolerance at a rate of 0.13/PY. This was predominantly due to noncardiovascular adverse events, and rates of introducing or increasing concomitant treatment for hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus were all below 0.05/PY. Creatinine rises of > or =30% were also notably uncommon (0.05/PY). CONCLUSION Tacrolimus's efficacy for the treatment of uveitis is maintained long-term, and its cardiovascular risk profile is excellent.
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Bodaghi B, Gendron G, Wechsler B, Terrada C, Cassoux N, Huong DLT, Lemaitre C, Fradeau C, LeHoang P, Piette JC. Efficacy of interferon alpha in the treatment of refractory and sight threatening uveitis: a retrospective monocentric study of 45 patients. Br J Ophthalmol 2006; 91:335-9. [PMID: 17050581 PMCID: PMC1857681 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.101550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM Severe uveitis is potentially associated with visual impairment or blindness in young patients. Therapeutic strategies remain controversial. The efficacy of interferon alpha-2a (IFN-alpha2a) in severe uveitis, refractory to steroids and conventional immunosuppressive agents, was evaluated. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients were included after a major relapse of uveitis following corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. IFN-alpha2a (3 million units three times a week) was administered subcutaneously. Efficacy was assessed by improvement in visual acuity, decrease in vitreous haze, resolution of retinal vasculitis and macular oedema, assessed by fundus examination and fluorescein angiography, and decrease in oral prednisone threshold. RESULTS 45 patients were included. Median age was 32.3 years (range 8-58) and sex ratio (F/M) was 0.66. Uveitis was associated with Behçet's disease in 23 cases (51.1%) and with other entities in 22 cases (48.9%). Median duration of uveitis before interferon therapy was 34.9 months (range 3.4-168.7) and an average of 3.26 relapses following corticosteroids and immunosuppressants was noted. Uveitis was controlled in 82.6% of patients with Behçet's disease and 59% of patients with other types of uveitis (p = 0.07). During a mean follow-up of 29.6 months (range 14-55), median oral prednisone threshold decreased significantly from 23.6 mg/day (range 16-45) to 10 mg/d (range 4-14) (p<0.001). Interferon was discontinued in 10 patients (22.2%) with Behçet's disease and in four patients without Behçet's disease. Relapses occurred in four and one cases, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Interferon therapy appears to be an efficient strategy in severe and relapsing forms of Behçet's disease but also in other uveitic entities. However, it seems to act more to suspend rather than cure the disease. Therefore, IFN-alpha2a may be proposed as a secondline strategy after failure of conventional immunosuppressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Bodaghi
- Department of Ophthalmology, AP-HP, University of Paris VI, Paris, France.
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