OUTCOMES AFTER LASER VERSUS COMBINED LASER AND BEVACIZUMAB TREATMENT FOR TYPE 1 RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY IN ZONE I

Factors predictive of early reactivation after ıntravitreal ranibizumab in agressive retinopathy of prematurity

OBJECTIVE

Anti-VEGF agents are used in the treatment of aggressive retinopathy of prematurity (A-ROP), which is a rapidly progressive form of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). This study aimed to evaluate risk factors for the early reactivation after anti-VEGF therapy with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) injection.

METHODS

Consecutive cases of A-ROP were included in this retrospective study. Intravitreal ranibizumab (0.25mg, Lucentis, Novartis AG) was injected in all A-ROP cases as initial therapy. Probable risk factors were reviewed. A reactivation in 4 weeks or less was defined as "early", and greater than 4 weeks was defined as "late". Since reactivations were observed in Zone II in all cases, laser photocoagulation (LP) was performed as rescue therapy.

RESULTS

The study consisted of 16 patients with A-ROP, all of whom experienced reactivation. In 6 cases,reactivation was seen early (Group-E), and in 10 cases, reactivation was late (Group-L). The mean gestational age of Group-E and Group-L were 26.60 (±0.89) and 26.73 (±2.10) weeks respectively (P=0.9), and mean birth weights were 918 (±282) and 898 (±0188) grams respectively (P=0.8). Zone I ROP was seen at a higher rate in Group-E (83.3%) than Group-L (30%) (P=0.009). Total O2 treatment duration in Group-E was statistically significantly longer than Group-L (P=0.03). The mean value of platelet distribution width (PDW) in Group-E was statistically significantly higher (P=0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with A-ROP, extended duration of O2 therapy and high values of PDW might be factors predictive of early reactivation after intravitreal ranibizumab injection.

Comparison of intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy and combined laser photocoagulation and intravitreal bevacizumab therapy in the same session in the treatment of aggressive retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To compare the results of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) monotherapy and combined intravitreal bevacizumab and laser photocoagulation (LPC) therapies applied in the same session to patients with aggressive retinopathy of prematurity (A-ROP) in our clinic.

METHODS

The study included 67 eyes of 37 patients diagnosed with A-ROP and treated. Forty-nine eyes treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent injection monotherapy for A-ROP treatment were included in the first group. The second group consisted of 18 eyes that received injection therapy and LPC treatment. The clinical findings of the two groups were investigated, and their treatment results were compared.

RESULTS

Recurrence was observed in 19 of the 49 (38%) eyes in the first group, but there was no recurrence in any of the cases in the second group. While only IVB was applied to eight cases with recurrence, the combination of LPC and IVB treatment was applied to 11 cases. A second recurrence was detected in two of the eight cases that had received IVB monotherapy as a treatment for recurrence and in three of the 11 cases that had received LPC and IVB. The treatment outcomes of the two groups did not statistically significantly differ (P = 0.181).

CONCLUSION

We consider that the combined simultaneous LPC and IVB treatment we applied in A-ROP cases is an effective approach, particularly for cases where there are concerns about the patient's ability to attend follow-up appointments.

OUTCOME OF EYES TREATED FOR RETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY IN POSTERIOR ZONE I: An Eastern India Study

PURPOSE

To analyze the outcomes of eyes treated for retinopathy of prematurity in posterior Zone I.

METHODS

In a part retrospective (9 years) and part prospective (1 year) interventional study, we analyzed eyes treated for retinopathy of prematurity in posterior Zone I with a minimum follow-up for 6 months.

RESULTS

This study included 109 eyes of 56 infants; mean gestational age and birth weights were 29.3 (±2.1) weeks and 1112.5 (±381.9) g, respectively. The treatment included intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor as the initial treatment modality in 101 eyes (92.6%), either alone (27 eyes) or combined with laser or vitreous surgery (73 eyes). Laser was the initial treatment modality in eight eyes, either alone (n = 3) or in combination with surgery (n = 5). With anti-vascular endothelial growth factor alone, 30.68% (n = 27) eyes responded favorably, and the remaining 69.32% (n = 59) eyes needed retreatment (laser in the majority). At the final follow-up, 89.9% (out of 109) of eyes did well anatomically. Good outcome was significantly linked to no detachment at presentation ( P < 0.0001) and the presence of well-defined central vascular trunks ( P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Treating the eyes before retinal detachment with bevacizumab followed by laser (and surgery, if needed) results in a favorable outcome in babies with posterior Zone I retinopathy of prematurity.

The efficacy and ocular safety following aflibercept, conbercept, ranibizumab, bevacizumab, and laser for retinopathy of prematurity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is typically treated with laser photocoagulation and/or intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF). To the best of our knowledge, most systematic reviews have focused on comparing anti-VEGF against laser treatment while comparisons between different anti-VEGF agents are lacking. Thus, we conducted this meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of different anti-VEGF agents or laser after primary ROP therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases up to November 2022. We included studies that used anti-VEGF or laser for ROP with comparable cohorts.

RESULTS

Overall, 44 studies were included in this meta-analysis. When comparing anti-VGEF with laser, we found that the anti-VEGF group had a significantly higher retreatment rate (RR = 1.56, 95%CI = [1.06, 2.31], p = 0.03), a longer time from treatment to retreatment (WMD = 5.99 weeks, 95%CI = [4.03, 7.95], p < 0.001), a lower retinal detachment rate (RR = 0.55, 95%CI = [0.30, 0.91], p = 0.02), higher spherical equivalent (WMD = 1.69D, 95%CI = [0.61, 2.77], p = 0.002), lower myopia rate (RR = 0.69, 95%CI = [0.50, 0.97], p = 0.03) and lower anisometropia rate (RR = 0.44, 95%CI = [0.29, 0.67], p = 0.0001). In comparisons between ranibizumab and bevacizumab, the intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) group was associated with higher recurrence rate (RR = 2.02, 95%CI = [1.49, 2.73], p < 0.0001), higher retreatment rate (RR = 1.70, 95%CI = [1.17, 2.47], p = 0.0006), and lower high myopia rate (RR = 0.31, 95%CI = [0.12, 0.77], p = 0.01). Similarly, when compared to aflibercept and conbercept, the IVR cohort also demonstrated higher recurrence and retreatment rates. While no significant differences were observed in any of the variables included in the statistical analysis in the comparison between bevacizumab and aflibercept.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-VEGF was associated with higher retreatment and lesser incidence of myopia as compared to laser. Laser therapy was linked to more complications like retinal detachment and myopia. Ranibizumab exhibited higher recurrence and retreatment rates compared to bevacizumab, aflibercept, and conbercept.

Intraocular pressure effect of intravitreal conbercept injection for retinopathy of prematurity

Purpose: Intravitreal injection of conbercept (IVC) is a novel anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). This study aimed to assess the intraocular pressure (IOP) effect of IVC. Methods: All IVC surgeries were performed in the Department of Ophthalmology, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, from January 2021 to May 2021. In this study, 30 eyes of 15 infants who received intravitreal injections of conbercept at a dose of 0.25 mg/0.025 mL were included. The IOP of all participants was measured prior to administering the injection and subsequently at 2 min, 1 h, 1 day, and 1 week thereafter. Results: We included 30 eyes (10 boys and 5 girls) with ROP. For the male group, the mean birth weight, mean gestational age at birth, and the mean time of postmenstrual age (PMA) at IVC treatment were 1,174.0 ± 446.0 g, 28.4 ± 3.0 weeks, and 37.1 ± 1.6 weeks, respectively; for the female group, they were 1,108 ± 285.5 g, 28.2 ± 2.5 weeks, and 36.8 ± 2.1 weeks, respectively. For the male group, the IOP at baseline, 2 min, 1 h, 1 day, and 1 week after IVC were 12.4 ± 1.5 mmHg, 49.0 ± 3.1 mmHg, 26.3 ± 2.5 mmHg, 13.4 ± 2.2 mmHg, and 11.6 ± 1.7 mmHg, respectively; for the female group, they were 10.7 ± 2.0 mmHg, 47.3 ± 3.2 mmHg, 26.4 ± 3.2 mmHg, 10.7 ± 1.8 mmHg, and 10.2 ± 1.8 mmHg, respectively. In both groups, the IOP immediately (2 min) after the operation was significantly higher than that at any other time point (p < 0.01). IOP values returned to the preoperative baseline level on the first day after surgery, with no significant difference compared with that before injection (p > 0.05). IOP continued to be maintained at the preoperative baseline level on the first week after surgery, with no significant difference compared with that before surgery (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Infants with ROP who received IVC experienced a sharp increase in the IOP immediately after injection, which decreased to below 30 mmHg after 1 h and maintain that level for 1 week or longer.

Investigating the factors affecting myopia in retinopathy of prematurity after laser treatment

BACKGROUND

We investigated the effect of the number of laser shots applied on the myopic variables to elucidate the mechanism of myopia development in laser-treated retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) eyes.

METHODS

A total of 33 eyes of 17 infants with ROP who underwent laser treatment were included in the analysis. Cycloplegic retinoscopic refraction testing was carried out and the spherical equivalent (SE) was calculated. Relationships between SE and various variables (including the number of laser shots applied) were examined. In addition, an age-matched control group without ROP was prepared and ocular structural parameters were compared.

RESULTS

Although there was no statistical difference in axial length (AL) between two groups (p = 0.88), SE was significantly more myopic in the ROP group (p < 0.001). SE was associated with AL, corneal refraction (CR), and crystalline lens power (CLP) in the ROP group. Of these three factors (AL, CR, and CLP), CLP and the number of laser shots applied were significantly correlated (p = 0.003); however, no correlations were observed between the number of laser shots and AL or CR (p = 0.15 and 0.10, respectively). Very similar tendency was observed in the analysis of the difference between right and left eyes in each child.

CONCLUSIONS

In laser-treated ROP eyes, AL, CR, and CLP were related to the degree of myopia. Moreover, the number of shots applied also affected the myopic status in laser-treated ROP eyes. Among AL, CR, and CLP, only CLP was correlated with the laser shots applied.

Molecular mechanism of VEGF and its role in pathological angiogenesis

Over the last seven decades, a significant scientific contribution took place in the delineation of the implications of vascular endothelial-derived growth factor (VEGF) in the processes of angiogenesis. Under pathological conditions, mainly in response to hypoxia or ischemia, elevated VEGF levels promote vascular damage and the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Indeed, the development of VEGF biology has revolutionized our understanding of its role in pathological conditions. Hence, targeting VEGF or VEGF-mediated molecular pathways could be an excellent therapeutic strategy for managing cancers and intraocular neovascular disorders. Although anti-VEGF therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have limited clinical efficacy, they can still significantly improve the overall survival rate. This thus demands further investigation through the development of alternative strategies in the management of VEGF-mediated pathological angiogenesis. This review article focuses on the recent developments toward the delineation of the functional biology of VEGF and the role of anti-VEGF strategies in the management of tumor and eye pathologies. Moreover, therapeutic angiogenesis, an exciting frontier for the treatment of ischemic disorders, is highlighted in this review, including wound healing.

Pulmonary function in school-age children following intravitreal injection of bevacizumab for retinopathy of prematurity

The effect of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor on neonatal lung development was inconclusive. To evaluate pulmonary function in school-age children who have received intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), this study included 118 school-aged children who were grouped into three groups: full-term control children (group 1), preterm children who had not received IVB treatment (group 2) and preterm children with ROP who had received IVB treatment (group 3). Pulmonary function was measured by spirometry and impulse oscillometry. Pulmonary function was significantly better in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3 (all p < 0.05 in forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁), forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of FVC (FEF_25-75), and respiratory resistance at 5 Hz and difference between respiratory resistance at 5 and 20 Hz (R5-R20). There were no statistically significant differences between group 2 and group 3 in all pulmonary function parameters, including FVC, FEV₁, ratio of FEV₁ to FVC, FEF_25-75, R5, R20, R5-R20, and respiratory reactance at 5 Hz. In conclusion, our study revealed that preterm infants receiving IVB for ROP had comparable pulmonary function at school age to their preterm peers who had not received IVB treatment.

Refractive outcomes following unilateral laser treatment for type 1 retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To compare refractive outcomes of infants with type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in whom one eye was treated with laser and the fellow eye spontaneously regressed.

METHODS

The medical records of infants who underwent IVB and laser treatment for type 1 ROP or aggressive posterior-ROP between January 2016 and December 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. Infants in whom ROP in the fellow eye regressed and for whom refractive data was available in the record were included in the study. Refractive outcomes of unilaterally treated infants were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 283 cases were reviewed: of these, 17 experienced spontaneous regression in the fellow eye and were included. All unilateral laser-treated eyes had type 1 ROP in zone Ⅱ. The median age at treatment was 40 weeks' postmenstrual age (IQR, 39-41). The mean spherical equivalent at the last examination was 2.1 ± 2.5 D in treated eyes and 2.50 ± 1.4 D in nontreated eyes, at a mean age of 25.0 ± 9.1 months (P = 0.378). Of the 7 infants who underwent fluorescein angiography, the median of the ratio of the length of the temporal retinal vascularization to the optic disk-to-fovea distance was 3.71 (3.22-3.79) in treated and 4.28 (3.90-4.49) in untreated eyes, at a median age of 18 months (P = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

In laser-treated eyes with peripheral zone Ⅱ ROP and with advanced treatment age, we did not observe a significant myopic change compared to the fellow untreated eye.

Longitudinal Change of Refractive Error in Retinopathy of Prematurity Treated With Intravitreal Bevacizumab or Laser Photocoagulation

PURPOSE

To compare progression of myopia and refractive error in former premature infants with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated using intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) or laser.

DESIGN

Retrospective clinical cohort study.

METHODS

We identified premature infants with ROP treated using IVB from 2011 to 2020 and compared their longitudinal cycloplegic refraction data to that of infants with ROP treated using laser during the same timeframe. A subset of infants treated using IVB also underwent additional treatment using laser. We included cycloplegic refractions from 789 cumulative visits over a median 3.2 years. We used a linear mixed-effects model with a log decay function to evaluate how refraction changed with age after treatment.

RESULTS

In aggregate, the model estimated a significant (P < .001) trend in refraction-from slight hyperopia to relatively more myopic states. However, progression in laser-treated eyes was significantly (P < .001) more rapid, regardless of treatment with IVB. The number of laser spots resulted in increased myopic progression by approximately 0.16 diopters per 100 laser spots. Both ROP stage and zone had a significant effect on myopic progression, with more severe disease resulting in faster myopic progression. Random effects, including individual subject variation with nested variance for left and right eye, accounted for 86.4% of the remaining variance not explained by age and treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Laser treatment for severe ROP increases the trend to severe myopia. In our sample, IVB did not affect myopic progression but did substantially reduce the amount of consequent laser required to treat ROP. The effect of laser persists after accounting for differences in ROP stage and zone.

A comparison of primary laser versus laser after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor for type 1 retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To compare characteristics of laser treatment for high-risk type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in eyes treated with primary laser versus laser after an initial treatment with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF).

METHODS

The medical records of consecutive patients at a single academic institution treated for type 1 ROP before 36 weeks' postmenstrual age with primary laser versus laser after initial treatment with anti-VEGF were reviewed retrospectively. Outcome measures were laser spot number, mean laser power, total laser energy (Joules), and retinal vascularization to the nasal ora at time of laser treatment.

RESULTS

Compared with the 46 eyes treated with primary laser, the 46 eyes treated with laser after anti-VEGF required fewer spots (mean, 775 vs 1418 [P < 0.01]), less power (182 vs 223 mW [P < 0.01]), and less total energy (27 vs 61 Joules [P < 0.01]), and showed greater vascularization to the nasal ora at the time of laser treatment (47.8% vs 6.5% [P < 0.01]).

CONCLUSIONS

In our study cohort, laser after initial anti-VEGF treatment may have allowed for greater retinal vascularization and been less destructive than primary laser for high-risk type 1 ROP.

Factors associated with refractive outcome in children treated with bevacizumab for retinopathy of prematurity: the importance of retinal vascularization

PURPOSE

To evaluate the factors that may be associated with refractive outcome in eyes treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

Retrospective case series. Refractive outcomes of 181 infants who were treated with primary IVB for Type I ROP or aggressive ROP, were retrospectively evaluated. According to the pretreatment retinal vascularization, eyes were classified into zone I, zone I-zone II, and zone II groups. The first year, third year, and final refractive error were analyzed. Univariate logistic regression test was performed to evaluate the effect of factors on the development of ≥ 1 diopter (D) myopia.

RESULTS

At the final examination, the mean age was 22.9 ± 10.9 months. The zone II group was more hyperopic than the zone I-zone II and zone I zone groups (P = 0.001). Of the 331 eyes, 17 eyes (5.1%) had high myopia, 50 eyes (15.1%) had low myopia, and 83 eyes (25.1%) had emmetropia. During follow-up, 110 (33.2%) eyes underwent laser treatment. Gestational age, birth weight, neonatal intensive care unit type, the presence of additional laser treatment, number of injections, the type of ROP, and the dose of IVB were not associated with the development of ≥ 1 D myopia. The pretreatment and prelaser retinal zones were associated with the development of ≥ 1 D myopia.

CONCLUSION

The most important factors affecting the refractive outcome in infants who underwent primary IVB treatment was the extent of pretreatment and prelaser retinal vascularization.

Clinical profile and management outcomes of posterior zone 1 retinopathy of prematurity

BACKGROUND

To analyse the varied clinical profile and treatment outcomes of posterior zone 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

This retrospective case-series included 54 eyes of 27 infants of posterior zone 1 ROP treated at our centre from January 2018 to June 2019. Three clinical patterns were observed at presentation - Posterior zone 1 ROP without detachment (group 1), with subtotal detachment (group 2) and total detachment (group 3) of the vascularised retina. Their profile, treatment options and outcomes were studied.

RESULTS

The mean birth weight was 1204 ± 262 gm and mean gestational age was 28.8 ± 2 weeks. Clinical presentation as per group 1, 2 and 3 was seen in 33/54 (61.1%), 9/54 (16.6%) and 12/54 (22.2%) eyes, respectively. All the eyes received intravitreal ranibizumab as primary intervention. In group 1, 25/33 (75.7%) eyes had laser and 8/33 (24.2%) had surgery whereas, in group 2, 2/9 (22.2%) eyes had laser and 7/9 (77.7%) underwent surgery as a second intervention. In group 3, only 3 /12 (25%) eyes had second intervention (surgery). Surgical outcomes of group 1 and 2 were better than group 3. At last follow-up, macular vascularisation was noted in 33/54 (61.1%) eyes.

CONCLUSION

A customised and multifaceted treatment approach is required to treat posterior zone 1 ROP.

Effect of laser photocoagulation, antiangiogenic therapy or a combined treatment on refractive outcomes of newborns with ROP

PURPOSE

To determine the refractive outcome after treatment with laser photocoagulation, intravitreal antiangiogenic injection or both, for the treatment of type 1 ROP and/or aggressive posterior ROP using defocus equivalent terms. These results will be compared with the spherical equivalent (SE) notation in an initial refraction (during the first 3 years after treatment) and in a final evaluation (three years after treatment).

METHODS

Clinical charts review of preterm patients who developed type 1 ROP and/or aggressive posterior ROP who were treated with laser photocoagulation, intravitreal antiangiogenic injection, or both, between January 2007 and December 2014 at Fundación Oftalmológica de Santander were reviewed. Refractive error was evaluated at two different time points in three different treatment groups.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven eyes (56 patients) with ROP diagnosis treated with laser, antiangiogenics or in a combined scheme were included. Median gestational age was 29 weeks (IQR = 3), median birth weight was 1100 (IQR = 335) and mean corrected age at the time of treatment was 37.3 weeks (SD 2.2). Refractive outcomes in SE terms for the first refraction had a median of -0.50 diopters and in defocus terms, 4.00 diopters (D). For the second refraction, -3.00 diopters and 4.00 diopters (D), respectively. Pearson correlation test result for the first measurement was 93% (p = 0.000) and for the second evaluation was 99% (p = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Low birth weight had a statistically significant association to the increase of the refractive outcome. The high correlation between SE and DE for refractive errors allows us to confirm that DE is an appropriate metric to report refractive outcomes in this group of patients due to the presence of combined refractive ametropias.

An Observational Study of Different Treatment Practices for Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity

PURPOSE

To evaluate risk factors and outcomes of preferred practice for infants with aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP) at a tertiary eye center in India.

METHODS

This was an observational study of infants with APROP where patients were divided into three groups after 2 weeks of initial treatment depending on the treatment received: anti-VEGF only, laser only, and combination of anti-VEGF injection followed by laser within 2 weeks of anti-VEGF injection (combined group). All infants were evaluated for risk factors and followed up at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks to determine treatment outcomes in terms of regression, vascular re-growth, progression, and recurrence of the disease.

RESULTS

Sixty eyes of 31 infants were included in the study, with 26 eyes in the anti-VEGF only group, 19 eyes in the laser-only group, and 15 eyes in the combined group. Infants in the combined group presented late with lower birth weight (BW), smaller gestational age (GA), and a history of longer duration of ventilatory support. After 3 months of follow-up, regression occurred in 73.08% in the anti-VEGF only group, 89.5% in the laser-only group, and 86.66% in the combined group (P = .07). Zone of vascularization was greater in the anti-VEGF only group and the combined group compared to the laser-only group. Disease recurrence was seen in 27% in the anti-VEGF group, none in the laser-only group, and 13.33% in the combined group (P < .001). However, progression to stage 4 ROP requiring surgery was noted in 2 eyes in the laser-only group.

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with APROP who have a lower GA or BW or require longer ventilatory support are possibly a subset best suited for planned combination therapy. A combination of anti-VEGF therapy followed by laser treatment within 2 weeks allows for early regression, a stable course, lower recurrence, and a larger area of retinal vascularization. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2021;58(6):370-376.].

VEGFR1 signaling in retinal angiogenesis and microinflammation

Five vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) ligands (VEGF-A, -B, -C, -D, and placental growth factor [PlGF]) constitute the VEGF family. VEGF-A binds VEGF receptors 1 and 2 (VEGFR1/2), whereas VEGF-B and PlGF only bind VEGFR1. Although much research has been conducted on VEGFR2 to elucidate its key role in retinal diseases, recent efforts have shown the importance and involvement of VEGFR1 and its family of ligands in angiogenesis, vascular permeability, and microinflammatory cascades within the retina. Expression of VEGFR1 depends on the microenvironment, is differentially regulated under hypoxic and inflammatory conditions, and it has been detected in retinal and choroidal endothelial cells, pericytes, retinal and choroidal mononuclear phagocytes (including microglia), Müller cells, photoreceptor cells, and the retinal pigment epithelium. Whilst the VEGF-A decoy function of VEGFR1 is well established, consequences of its direct signaling are less clear. VEGFR1 activation can affect vascular permeability and induce macrophage and microglia production of proinflammatory and proangiogenic mediators. However the ability of the VEGFR1 ligands (VEGF-A, PlGF, and VEGF-B) to compete against each other for receptor binding and to heterodimerize complicates our understanding of the relative contribution of VEGFR1 signaling alone toward the pathologic processes seen in diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular occlusions, retinopathy of prematurity, and age-related macular degeneration. Clinically, anti-VEGF drugs have proven transformational in these pathologies and their impact on modulation of VEGFR1 signaling is still an opportunity-rich field for further research.

Comparison of Outcomes Between Combined Sparing Laser Photocoagulation and Intravitreal Bevacizumab Treatment Versus Conventional Laser Photocoagulation in Aggressive Posterior Retinopathy of Prematurity

PURPOSE

To report the clinical outcomes of combined sparing laser photocoagulation and intravitreal bevacizumab treatment compared to conventional laser photocoagulation for the treatment of aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP).

METHODS

A medical chart review was performed on all consecutive eyes with APROP that were treated with conventional laser photocoagulation or laser photocoagulation and intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection between July 2019 and August 2020. The data were recorded for time to reversal of plus disease, time to total regression of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) after intervention, total laser spots and area, proportion of eyes with satisfactory anatomical outcomes, and adverse events. Outcomes of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

Sixteen eyes of 8 infants with APROP were included in the analysis. Eight eyes of 4 infants received combined sparing laser photocoagulation and IVB treatment, and 8 eyes of 4 infants received conventional laser photocoagulation. All 8 eyes in the combined treatment group and 6 of 8 eyes in the conventional treatment group showed regression of ROP with a satisfactory anatomical outcome. The average time to total regression of ROP was 34 days in the combined treatment group and 56 days in the conventional treatment group (P = .005). The number of laser spots was significantly lower in the combined treatment group (P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined sparing laser photocoagulation and IVB treatment for eyes with APROP achieved ROP regression twice as fast, had fewer laser spots, and had a satisfactory anatomical outcome in comparison to conventional laser photocoagulation. [J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus. 2021;58(5):292-297.].

Outcomes of early versus deferred laser after intravitreal ranibizumab in aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to report the treatment outcomes of early and deferred laser in infants of aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP) after initial treatment with intravitreal Ranibizumab (IVR).

Methods:

In a prospective, randomized, interventional study, infants with APROP received IVR (0.25 mg) and were randomized into two groups prior to laser. Laser was done at 1 week (group 1) or at 6 weeks or earlier if there was a recurrence of plus disease (group 2). The structural outcome, number of laser spots, duration of laser procedure and refractive error at 6 months were compared. Favorable structural outcome was defined as, complete regression of disease at 6 weeks after laser.

Results:

63 eyes of 32 infants with APROP were enrolled. Mean gestational age (GA) and birth weight (BW) were 30.2 ± 2.3 weeks and 1294 ± 372.8 grams respectively. GA, BW, and disease severity were comparable at baseline. 27 (90%) eyes in group 1 and 29 (93.5%) eyes in group 2 had favorable structural outcome (P = 0.61) at 6 weeks after laser. Eyes in group 2 (2149.8 ± 688.7) required lesser number of laser spots than group 1 (2570.8 ± 615) (P = 0.01). At six months, more eyes in group 1 had myopic refractive error (Mean spherical equivalent: –1.0D ± 1.3) than those in group 2 (Mean spherical equivalent: 0.5D ± 1.9) (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

Infants with APROP receiving IVR have comparable structural outcomes after an early or deferred laser. Moreover, eyes undergoing deferred laser require less number of laser spots and have a less myopia at 6 months after laser.

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor in the management of retinopathy of prematurity: A survey among the members of Indian Retinopathy of Prematurity Society

Purpose:

To report the results of the survey for the role of anti-VEGF in the management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) among the members of Indian ROP (iROP) society.

Methods:

A questionnaire was designed in English using Google forms and its link was circulated to the members of the iROP society on their mobile numbers. The survey included questions pertaining to demographics, anti-VEGF agents, injection technique, post-injection follow-up, and documentation pertaining to their ROP practice. Anonymous responses were obtained and analyzed for individual questions.

Results:

226 members of the society were contacted and 157 responded (69.4%) to the survey. 137 (87.2%) respondents used anti-VEGF in the management of ROP. Aggressive posterior ROP (APROP) was the most common indication (78, 52.7%). The procedure was carried out in the main operation room (102, 70.3%) simultaneously for both the eyes (97; 68%) under topical anesthesia (134; 86.4%) by most of the respondents. One-hundred thirteen (77.9%) respondents used half of the adult dose, irrespective of the agent used; however, more than half of them preferred bevacizumab (85, 54%). 53 (36.3%) respondents followed up infants as per disease severity rather than a fixed schedule while only 33 (23%) performed photo documentation. 151 (96.2%) respondents felt the need for guidelines regarding the usage of anti-VEGF in ROP.

Conclusion:

There is an increase in the trend towards the use of anti-VEGF in the management of severe ROP, particularly APROP. However, there are considerable variations among the ROP practitioners regarding the agent, dosage, follow-up schedule, and documentation, suggesting the need for uniform guidelines.

[Pathogenetically oriented approach to prevention of retinopathy of prematurity (experimental study)]

Intraperitoneal injections of exogenous melatonin during the development of the retinal vascular system in experimental rats has been shown in a number of experimental studies on the model of EROP to prevent the appearance of histological signs of the development of experimental retinopathy of prematurity (EROP), stabilize the blood-retinal barrier and have a pronounced antioxidant effect, but pathogenetic basis for these phenomena hasn't been studied.

PURPOSE

To study the influence mechanism of melatonin and its analogues on the development of EROP at the preclinical stage of the pathological process to substantiate new approaches to prevention of ROP.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study included 42 Wistar rat pups (84 eyes) divided into 6 groups: control group, experimental group (rat pups with EROP), experimental groups who underwent injections of melatonin and its analogues K-148, AL-3, K-096. The pups were euthanized on day 7 (4-5 pups from each group at each study period), binocular enucleation was performed, and the content of hypoxia-induced factor1α (HIF-1α) and VEGF-A was determined in retinal samples.

RESULTS

The intraperitoneal injections of melatonin and its analogs led to a significant decrease in the level of HIF-1α and VEGF-A in the retina of the rat pups of the experimental group until the beginning of pathological vasoproliferation.

CONCLUSION

Melatonin and its analogues are able to prevent the development of EROP by reducing the level of angiogenic factors in the retina of rat pups at the stage of existing avascular zones, which allows for them to be considered as a new promising approach to preventing the development of ROP.

Comparison of two different doses of intravitreal aflibercept in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To compare the effectiveness of 0.4 mg/0.01 ml ("low dose") and 1 mg/0.025 ml ("standard dose") intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

The medical records of patients treated with the lower dose (low-dose group) or the more commonly used dose (standard-dose group) of IVA for type 1 or aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP) were evaluated retrospectively. The clinical features, regression and recurrence rates, additional treatments, retinal detachment rates and border of vascularization at last examination were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 32 eyes of 16 patients in the low-dose group and 42 eyes of 21 patients in the standard-dose group were included. At the time of the initial treatment, vascularization was in zone I in 26 eyes (81%) in the low-dose group and in 14 eyes (33%) in the standard-dose group (P = 0.000). The regression rate was 94% and 100%, respectively (P = 0.184). Retinal detachment occurred in 1 unresponsive eye in the low-dose group and 2 eyes after reactivation in the standard-dose group. Recurrence was observed in 9 (28%) eyes in the low-dose group and 10 (24%) eyes in the standard-dose group after the complete regression of the disease with treatment (P = 0.845). At 6 months, vascularization had entered zone III in 12 eyes (38%) in the low-dose group and in 24 eyes (57%) in the standard-dose group (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the difference between groups was not statistically significant, eyes with lack of response were present only in the low-dose group.

Comparison of 5-year safety and efficacy of laser photocoagulation and intravitreal bevacizumab injection in retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To compare laser photocoagulation and intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) treatment for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

The study included 52 eyes of 26 patients after ROP treatment who were observed up to 5 years of age. Twenty-eight eyes received laser photocoagulation as the initial treatment (laser group), and twenty-four eyes underwent IVB (IVB group). We collected data on gestational age, birth weight, 1- and 5-min Apgar scores, zone and stage at the time of treatment, recurrence of ROP and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) (logMAR), equivalent spherical value (SE), ocular complications, and developmental delay at the age of 5.

RESULTS

More zone I low-stage eyes were treated with IVB than laser. There was no difference in BCVA (p = 0.836). Although the mean SE was not different between the groups (p = 0.280), the prevalence of myopia was significantly higher in the laser group (p = 0.020). Developmental delay was observed in 3 of 14 and 3 of 12 cases in the laser and IVB groups, respectively (p = 0.596). Retinal holes were observed in 2 eyes in the IVB group, with 1 developing localized retinal detachment. There were no significant differences between the groups in the other factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to laser for ROP, IVB was not inferior in neurodevelopment or visual outcome and was superior in refractive error. As cases in the IVB group showed retinal holes, long-term follow-up with fundus examination is recommended after IVB.

Retinal Detachment after Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity with Laser versus Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor

PURPOSE

To compare rates of short-term retinal detachment (RD) of infants treated for type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy with infants treated with laser therapy. The choice between these 2 treatments remains controversial. Comparative data are limited and describe re-treatment rates rather than retinal structural outcomes predictive of long-term vision. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor acts faster than laser therapy, which may be beneficial for more aggressive ROP.

DESIGN

Nonrandomized, comparative cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

The study included 1167 eyes of 640 infants treated for type 1 ROP. Among these, 164 eyes received anti-VEGF therapy and 1003 eyes received laser therapy.

METHODS

Pretreatment and posttreatment examinations and treatments were completed by ophthalmologists with expertise in ROP. The study was a secondary analysis of data from the retrospective Postnatal Growth and Retinopathy of Prematurity Study (G-ROP) 1 study (2006-2012) and the prospective G-ROP 2 study (2015-2017).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Rate of RD (ROP stages 4A, 4B, or 5) within 8 weeks of initial treatment, an end point predictive of poor long-term vision. The results were stratified by postmenstrual age (PMA) at treatment as occurring before versus at or after 36 weeks and 0 days, because earlier disease may be considered more aggressive.

RESULTS

Among 458 eyes treated before PMA 36 weeks and 0 days, the short-term RD rate was higher after laser therapy (29/368 eyes [7.9%]) than after anti-VEGF therapy (0/90 eyes [0%]; P < 0.001). Of 709 eyes treated at or after PMA 36 weeks and 0 days, short-term RD risk did not differ between groups (laser [20/635 eyes], 3.1%; anti-VEGF [1/74 eyes], 1.4%; P = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy results in better short-term structural outcomes than laser therapy when type 1 ROP is treated before 36 weeks' PMA. After this age, both treatments have very low rates of short-term RD. The faster action of anti-VEGF agents likely is responsible for these findings.

Comparison of foveal thickness in preschool children with a history of retinopathy of prematurity and laser photocoagulation or anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment: a prospective, longitudinal study

AIMS

To determine longitudinal differences in foveal thickness in preschool-aged patients with or without a history of type I retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

A study of 201 eyes, including 32 laser±intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB)-treated eyes, 37 IVB-treated eyes, 14 spontaneously regressed ROP eyes, and 118 age-matched controls were enrolled in this study. The retinal thicknesses (full, inner and outer) were measured in the foveal area at 6-month intervals four consecutive times by optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

The foveal thicknesses among the four groups were similar at all four visits (all p>0.05) after gestational age (GA) adjustment and remained similar with no differences after the full retinal thickness was divided into inner and outer thicknesses (all p>0.05). The full and outer foveal thicknesses of premature children increased over time (0.17 μm/month and 0.17 μm/month; p=0.0001 and 0.0003, respectively), but the inner foveal thickness remained unchanged with time (0.002 μm/month; p=0.09). Moreover, the positive correlation with best-corrected visual acuity was stronger for outer foveal thickness than for inner foveal thickness (γ=0.281, p<0.0001 and γ=0.181, p<0.0001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The thickness of fovea in laser±IVB-treated, IVB-treated, regressed ROP and preterm eyes showed no difference after GA adjustment. The whole and outer foveal thicknesses increased with time in preschool-aged children over a 1.5-year follow-up period, but the inner foveal thickness remained unchanged with time.

Retinopathy of Prematurity: How to Prevent the Third Epidemics in Developing Countries

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is vasoproliferative disease affecting preterm infants and is a leading cause of avoidable childhood blindness worldwide. The world is currently experiencing the third epidemic of ROP, where majority of the cases are from middle-income countries. Over 40% of the world's premature infants were born in India, China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Indonesia. Together with other neighboring nations, this region has unique challenges in ROP management. Key aspects of the challenges including heavier and more mature infants developing severe ROP. Current strategies include adoption of national screening guidelines, telemedicine, integrating vision rehabilitation and software innovations in the form of artificial intelligence. This review overviews some of these aspects.

A Comparison of Respiratory Outcomes after Treating Retinopathy of Prematurity with Laser Photocoagulation or Intravitreal Bevacizumab

PURPOSE

To compare respiratory outcomes after treatment of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) between infants treated with laser therapy under general anesthesia and infants treated with intravitreal bevacizumab under bedside sedation.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred thirty-eight consecutive infants treated for ROP from September 2010 through September 2018 at 1 institution.

METHODS

Retrospective medical, procedural, and ophthalmologic data were collected, including preprocedure (baseline) and postprocedure (24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days, and 28 days) respiratory status, birth weight, gestational age, gender, ROP treatment method, postmenstrual age at treatment, and coincident nonocular procedures during anesthesia. Respiratory outcomes at 48 hours were compared between infants treated with laser therapy under general anesthesia and infants treated with intravitreal bevacizumab under local sedation using multivariate logistic regression analysis to control for potentially confounding factors.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Proportion of infants who had returned to their respiratory baseline by 48 hours after ROP treatment.

RESULTS

Return to respiratory baseline was significantly less common among 119 infants initially treated with laser therapy compared with 19 infants initially treated with bevacizumab at 24 hours (40% vs. 74%; P = 0.0115), 48 hours (53% vs. 79%; P = 0.0453), and 7 days (79% vs. 100%; P = 0.0242). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, infants treated with laser therapy were less likely to return to respiratory baseline at 48 hours (odds ratio, 0.14; 95% confidence interval, 0.04-0.54). At 28 days, no difference was found between groups (laser, 97%; bevacizumab, 100%; P > 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Infants treated with intravitreal bevacizumab using bedside sedation returned to their preprocedure respiratory baseline faster than infants treated with laser under general anesthesia, with the differences persisting at least to 7 days or more after the procedure.

Current evidence and outcomes for retinopathy of prematurity prevention: insight into novel maternal and placental contributions

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a blinding morbidity of preterm infants, which represents a significant clinical problem, accounting for up to 40% of all childhood blindness. ROP displays a range of severity, though even mild disease may result in life-long visual impairment. This is complicated by the fact that our current treatments have significant ocular and potentially systemic effects. Therefore, disease prevention is desperately needed to mitigate the life-long deleterious effects of ROP for preterm infants. Although ROP demonstrates a delayed onset of retinal disease following preterm birth, representing a potential window for prevention, we have been unable to sufficiently alter the natural disease course and meaningfully prevent ROP. Prevention therapeutics requires knowledge of early ROP molecular changes and risk, occurring prior to clinical retinal disease. While we still have an incomplete understanding of these disease mechanisms, emerging data integrating contributions of maternal/placental pathobiology with ROP are poised to inform novel approaches to prevention. Herein, we review the molecular basis for current prevention strategies and the clinical outcomes of these interventions. We also discuss how insights into early ROP pathophysiology may be gained by a better understanding of maternal and placental factors playing a role in preterm birth.

Development of refractive error in children treated for retinopathy of prematurity with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Objective

To investigate refractive error development in preterm children with severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents and laser photocoagulation.

Methods

Selection criteria were comparative studies that compared the refractive errors in children, birthweights ≤1500 grams and gestational ages ≤30 weeks, and treatments for Type I ROP with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) versus laser photocoagulation. Studies were identified using PubMed, Google Scholar, and published reviews. Meta-analyses were performed on the post-treatment outcomes of spherical equivalent (SEQ), cylindrical power, and prevalence of high myopia. Longitudinal development of refractive error in IVB, or in laser-treated children, or in normal full-term children was visually summarized.

Results

Two randomized controlled trials and 5 non-randomized studies, including a total of 272 eyes treated by IVB and 247 eyes treated by laser, were included in this study. Compared with laser-treated children, IVB-treated children have less myopic refractive error (P<0.001), lower prevalence of high myopia (P<0.05), and less astigmatism (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Treatment with IVB is associated with less myopia and astigmatism than laser treatment for infants with severe ROP. Given the complexity of ROP and the variability of dosing, our review supports close monitoring of refractive error outcomes in children treated with IVB.

Short-term retinal detachment risk after treatment of type 1 retinopathy of prematurity with laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal bevacizumab

PURPOSE

To perform a stratified comparison of the short-term risk of retinal detachment after treatment of type 1 retinopathy of prematurity treated with panretinal photocoagulation laser versus intravitreal bevacizumab.

METHODS

The medical records of consecutive infants treated for type 1 ROP between 2010 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. An a priori decision was made to divide infants into two groups, those treated before postmenstrual age (PMA) of 36 0/7 weeks and those treated at or after PMA of 36 0/7 weeks. The primary outcome was presence of any retinal detachment (stage 4A, 4B, or 5) during the 8 weeks following treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 222 eyes of 115 infants were included. In eyes treated before 36 0/7 weeks' PMA, retinal detachment occurred in 0 of 34 eyes treated initially with bevacizumab compared with 9 of 56 (16%) treated with laser (P = 0.0112); in eyes treated at or after 36 0/7 weeks, in 0 of 2 eyes treated with bevacizumab and 1 of 130 eyes (0.8%) treated with laser.

CONCLUSIONS

The short-term risk of retinal detachment among infants requiring treatment for type 1 ROP prior to 36 0/7 weeks' PMA was lower in eyes treated with intravitreal bevacizumab than in eyes treated with laser, presumably due to the faster effect of bevacizumab in eyes that have more aggressive ROP.

Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity in two cohorts of patients in South India: implications for primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention

BACKGROUND

Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (APROP), which has a poor visual prognosis, is common in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) as a result of suboptimal oxygen monitoring (primary prevention). The purpose of this study was to compare outcomes in APROP eyes treated with laser to eyes treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy.

METHODS

The medical records of a cohort of APROP eyes treated with anti-VEGF (2010-2018) and another of eyes treated with laser photocoagulation (2002-2010) at the same institution in South India were reviewed retrospectively and compared. The main outcome was the proportion of eyes developing retinal detachment during resolution of acute ROP.

RESULTS

A total of 398 eyes of 199 preterm babies with APROP were included: 168 eyes were treated with photocoagulation; 230, with anti-VEGF. From 2002 to 2010, compared to the more recent cohort, babies diagnosed with APROP tended to be heavier (P < 0.001), older (P < 0.001), and exposed to fewer days of oxygen (P = 0.02). In the laser-treated cohort, 17 of 168 eyes (10%) developed retinal detachment (7, stage 5; 12, stage 4), compared with 3 of 230 (1%) in the anti-VEGF cohort (all stage 4 [P = 0.002]).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of retinal detachment was significantly lower in eyes treated with anti-VEGF compared with laser-.treated eyes In the absence of a randomized trial, these data suggest that anti-VEGF may lead to better anatomic outcomes, although questions remain concerning dosage, timing, and risks.

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor intravitreal therapy for retinopathy of prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity treatment modalities have expanded over the years, from cryotherapy to laser therapy and now, anti-vascular endothelial factor (VEGF) therapy by intravitreal injection. Use of anti-VEGF treatment varies regionally and depends on multiple factors including severity and progression of ROP, availability of alternative treatments, experience of the local ophthalmologists, medical status of the infant, and expectations for long-term follow-up. While the advantages and disadvantages of anti-VEGF intravitreal treatment on the eye are relatively well-described, few studies provide information about potential long-term systemic effects of this treatment, which is known to transiently reduce systemic VEGF concentrations.

Foveal microvasculature, refractive errors, optical biometry and their correlations in school-aged children with retinopathy of prematurity after intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factors or laser photocoagulation

AIMS

To compare the differences and to assess the correlations regarding to foveal microvasculature, refractive errors and optical biometry in children with history of type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with either laser photocoagulation or intravitreal injection of antivascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF).

METHODS

This is a retrospective and comparative case series. Measurements of fovea microvasculature included the retinal thickness and subfoveal choroid thickness, the size of fovea avascular zone (FAZ), the fovea, parafovea and perifoveal vessel density (VD). Measurements of refractive errors and optical biometry included spherical equivalent, astigmatism, cornea curvature, anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness and axial length (AXL).

RESULTS

A total 47 eyes in 25 children were studied (22 laser-treated eyes from 12 children and 25 anti-VEGF treated eyes from 13 children). Laser-treated eyes had significantly smaller FAZ (p=0.004), higher fovea VD, lower parafoveal VD (p=0.02 and 0.01 in superficial capillary plexus; p=0.05 and 0.01 in deep capillary plexus), thicker inner retinal thickness (p=0.002). Laser-treated eyes had significantly higher degree of myopia (p=0.01). Regarding to optical biometry, laser-treated eyes had significant steeper cornea curvature, shallower ACD and thicker lens (p=0.01, 0.01 and 0.02, respectively) but no differences in AXL was noted (p=0.58). Significant correlations presented between inner retina thickness and FAZ to anterior segment variables.

CONCLUSION

In school-aged children with history of type 1 ROP, despite similar visual acuity outcome, those who underwent anti-VEGF injection had favourable developmental outcomes compared with laser photocoagulation. Significant correlations exist between fovea microvasculature and optical biometric components.

Refractive Status in Children with Laser-Treated Retinopathy of Prematurity: Our Experience in Bulgaria

BACKGROUND:

With the establishment of laser photocoagulation as a standard treatment modality for prethreshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a dramatic reduction of cases with ROP blindness and severe visual impairment have been reported. In the same time, high refractive errors, a common complication in ROP cases and especially in ROP treated infants, have become the main cause of visual and often severe visual impairment.

AIM:

The purpose of our study was to analyse the long-term refractive status in children at 3.5 years after laser-treatment for type 1 prethreshold ROP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective, one centre study of refractive status of 18 children with laser-treated type 1 prethreshold ROP was conducted. The refraction after cycloplegia with 1% cyclopentolate was measured at a mean age of 3.56 years (SD ± 0.34). Hyperopia was subdivided into two groups – low hyperopia (SE < +5.0 D) and high hyperopia (SE ≥ +5.0 D). Myopia was classified as myopia (SE ≥ –0.25D) and high myopia (SE ≥ -5.0 D). Astigmatism was divided into low astigmatism (plus CD ≥ +1.0 D) and high astigmatism (plus CD ≥ +2.0 D).

RESULTS:

Thirty-three eyes of 18 children were recruited in the study. Three eyes were excluded because of unfavourable anatomical results. The mean gestational age at birth was 27.3 weeks (24-31 weeks, SD ± 1.78), and the mean birth weight – 928.9 g (550-1500 g, SD ± 252.8). The mean spherical equivalent for the whole group was -1.82 D and ranged from -9.00 D to +4.50 D (SD ± 3.48). Hyperopia was observed in 12 (36.4%) eyes. Myopic refraction had 21 (63.6%) eyes. Astigmatism was detected in 18 (54.5%) eyes. Anisometropia had 3 (16.7%) children. Six children (33.4%) had strabismus (4 esotropia; 2 exotropia).

CONCLUSION:

High per cent of treated infants for vision-threatening ROP have visual significant refractive errors and strabismus that can cause serious visual impairment if not treated properly and on time.

Fluorescein angiography of retinal vascular involution after intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for retinopathy of prematurity

AIM

To describe the involution patterns of vessel growth of retina through fluorescein angiography (FA) of children, who had been under treatment up to 1y previously intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) as monotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

This is a retrospective study. The medical information and FA of 17 children (34 eyes) whose area of avascular retina from the ora serrata was more than two disc diameters (DD) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 34 eyes, all were the presence of finger-shaped vessels and arteriolar-venular shunts (100%, 34/34 eyes). Popcorn abnormalities were found in most of the eyes (94.1%, 32/34 eyes). Furthermore, in many cases (23.5%, 8/34 eyes), there were leakage persisting in the region of the junction between avascular and vascular retina. In contrast, just 2 eyes (5.9%) showed damage of retinal capillary bed and 3 eyes (8.8%) showed large area of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy.

CONCLUSION

Although IVR can be very effective in ROP, we should remain cautious as infants may remain avascular peripheral retinas and abnormal vessel. FA allows accurate visualization of vessel abnormalities in eyes with ROP, which will be helpful to affect assessment of disease activity and therapeutic effect.

Intravitreal ranibizumab versus laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity: efficacy, anatomical outcomes and safety

Background/Aims

To compare the efficacy, anatomical outcomes and complications of intravitreal ranibizumab with those of laser photocoagulation for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Methods

This is a retrospective case series of 314 eyes from 165 infants diagnosed with type I ROP and treated with either laser photocoagulation (161 eyes) or intravitreal ranibizumab (0.25 mg/0.025 mL) injection (153 eyes) between January 2006 and December 2016 in a tertiary referral-based hospital. The main outcome was the rate of recurrence requiring additional treatment. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of major complications and final refractive error.

Results

The mean follow-up was 36.3±31.9 months. Recurrences requiring further intervention were noted in 22 (13.7%) laser-treated and 15 (9.8%) ranibizumab-treated eyes (p=0.196). Retinal detachment (8 vs 1, p=0.037) and macular dragging (7 vs 1, p=0.039) were observed in the laser-treated and injection-treated groups, respectively, but no systemic or neurodevelopmental adverse events were reported. In the ranibizumab group, 95.6% showed fully vascularised retinas. Multivariate analyses revealed that birth weight (OR 0.993, p=0.023) and higher ROP stage (OR 11.222, p=0.008) influenced the incidence of major complications.

Conclusion

Intravitreal ranibizumab for ROP appears to achieve similar therapeutic effects than did laser photocoagulation, but with fewer surgical complications such as retinal detachment or macular dragging.

Retinopathy of prematurity in the United Kingdom: retreatment rates, visual and structural 1-year outcomes

AIMS

To evaluate retreatment rates, visual and anatomical outcomes at 1-year postnatal age in infants treated for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) METHODS: Longitudinal national surveillance study of infants treated for ROP in the United Kingdom between December 2013 and December 2014, supported by the British Ophthalmic Surveillance Unit. Here we report retreatment rates, anatomical, visual and refractive outcomes at 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

One-year follow-up forms were completed for 168 children of the original cohort of 327 (51.4%). Twenty-two had at least one retreatment: 17/153 right eyes (REs, 11.1%) after initial diode laser, and 5/14 REs (35.7%) after initial injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) antibody. Median (interquartile range) RE best-corrected visual acuity was 0.6 (0.4-1.0) (n = 46 REs), and median acuity both eyes open 0.4 (0.3-0.7) logMAR (n = 89). Median spherical equivalent (RE) was 0.44 (-1.3 to 1.3) dioptre (D) (n = 116). Median astigmatism (RE) was 0.5 (0-1.0) D (n = 111), and median anisometropia 0.125 (0-0.75) D (n = 116). Twenty-four children (20.5%) had been prescribed glasses. Sight impairment certification eligibility information was available for 131 children: 11 (8.4%) were eligible to be certified as sight impaired, and 5 (3.8%) as severely sight impaired.

CONCLUSIONS

Retreatment rates are in line with previous reports, and appear higher after initial anti-VEGF antibody than after initial diode laser. Refractive outcomes are in line with previous studies, with a trend towards early emmetropia and myopia following diode laser, particularly in more severe ROP.

Functional and Structural Outcomes of Temporal Zone II-Sparing Laser Photocoagulation Combined with Intravitreal Bevacizumab in Retinopathy of Prematurity

Background/Aim

The aim of the study was to investigate the outcomes of temporal Zone II-sparing laser photocoagulation combined with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in patients with Type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in Zone I.

Methods

Medical records of 74 eyes of 37 infants were analysed. Only infants with Type 1 ROP in Zone I were included. Thirty-two eyes were treated with temporal-sparing laser + IVB. Both Zone I and temporal Zone II were spared to minimise potential visual field loss. Forty-two eyes were treated with laser alone conventionally. Early treatment outcomes, late complications, and refractive errors were analysed.

Results

The mean gestational age and birth weight of the enrolled patients were 25.7 ± 2.5 weeks and 798.8 ± 440.2 g, respectively. In the combined treatment group, plus sign regression was achieved faster (12.1 ± 6.2 days vs. 25.6 ± 21.3 days, p=0.011) and retreatment was required less (0% vs. 23.8%, p=0.004) than in the laser-alone group. Retinal/preretinal haemorrhages occurred more often in the laser-alone group (42.9% vs. 9.4%, p=0.002). Normal development of temporal retinal vessels was also observed in twelve eyes in the combined treatment group. No differences in late complications or refractive errors were observed between the groups.

Conclusion

Temporal Zone II-sparing laser treatment combined with IVB showed good early treatment outcome and temporal retinal vessels development.

Macular Structures, Optical Components, and Visual Acuity in Preschool Children after Intravitreal Bevacizumab or Laser Treatment

PURPOSE

To investigate the macular structures, optical components, and visual acuity in preschool-aged children with a history of type I retinopathy of prematurity who underwent either intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB), laser, or a combination of treatments.

DESIGN

Comparative interventional case series.

METHODS

Setting: A referred medical center in Taiwan.

STUDY POPULATION

Eighty eyes from 42 patients (33 IVB-treated eyes from 17 children, 24 laser-treated eyes from 13 children, and 23 laser + IVB-treated eyes from 12 children).

OBSERVATION PROCEDURE

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The retinal thickness in the foveal area and the associated morphologic changes in foveal depression.

RESULTS

Compared with the laser-treated and laser + IVB-treated eyes, the IVB-treated eyes had less myopia and deeper anterior chamber depths but presented similar axial lengths and corneal curvatures (P = .001, P = .002, P = .95, and P = .16, respectively). The IVB-treated eyes had significantly thinner foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal retinal thicknesses (P < .01 for all) and a higher incidence of foveal depression than the laser- or laser + IVB-treated eyes. The macular and subfoveal choroidal thicknesses did not differ among the groups (P = .21 and P = .63, respectively). Moreover, compared with the eyes treated with laser or laser + IVB, the IVB-treated eyes had better uncorrected visual acuity, although a significant difference was not observed in best-corrected visual acuity (P = .008 and P = .29, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with laser therapy, IVB-treated eyes were associated with deeper anterior chamber depths and thinner foveal, parafoveal, and perifoveal thicknesses. Moreover, these IVB-treated eyes had fewer refractive errors and better uncorrected visual acuity.

Favorable outcomes of adequate laser photocoagulation and salvage bevacizumab treatment for aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of salvage therapy with bevacizumab after laser photocoagulation for infants with recurrence of zone I aggressive-posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP).

Methods

This was a retrospective case series documenting the 2-year outcomes of 8 patients diagnosed with zone I AP-ROP and treated with bevacizumab for recurrence after laser photocoagulation. Prior to intravitreal bevacizumab, additional laser treatment was performed when any skip areas on the avascular retina remained. Anatomical and functional outcomes were evaluated.

Results

The median gestational age at birth was 23.7 weeks and the median birth weight was 541.5 g. The median time of initial laser treatment and intravitreal bevacizumab treatment were 32.1 weeks and 36.7 weeks' postmenstrual age, respectively. All 14 eyes developed a normal macular appearance and all 8 patients had visual responses. Visual acuity was measurable in 13 eyes (92%) between the chronological ages of 12–24 months.

Conclusions

and Importance: Adequate laser treatment and salvage intravitreal bevacizumab achieved favorable anatomical and functional outcomes in AP-ROP patients with recurrence.

Posterior zone I retinopathy of prematurity: spectrum of disease and outcome after laser treatment

OBJECTIVE

To report the morphological spectrum and outcome after laser treatment in posterior zone I retinopathy of prematurity.

DESIGN

Retrospective, consecutive, interventional case series.

METHODS

Review of charts and RetCam images of preterm infants with posterior zone I retinopathy of prematurity (defined as area within a circle, the radius of which extends from the center of the optic disc to the center of the macula) treated with confluent laser at a tertiary care referral institute between January 2006 and December 2015. Data was analyzed and tabulated using frequency and descriptive statistics to describe the demography, morphology, and outcome after laser treatment.

RESULTS

Fifty-six eyes (28 infants) with a mean gestational age of 28.65 ± 2.18 weeks and birth weight of 1153.04 ± 251.51 g were analyzed. Forty-two (75%) eyes had persistent tunica vasculosa lentis and 25 (44.6%) had preretinal hemorrhages. All eyes had circumferential ROP and a poorly developed foveal vasculature. Four distinct morphological patterns were encountered: I - typical aggressive posterior retinopathy was seen in 36 (64.3%) eyes; II - atypical aggressive posterior retinopathy (14 eyes; 25%) had raised fibrovascular proliferation always on the nasal retina close to the optic disc; III - hybrid retinopathy of prematurity (4 eyes; 8.7%) had a mat-like fibrous proliferation on vascularized posterior retina; and IV - threshold retinopathy of prematurity seen in 2 (4.4%) eyes. An unfavourable outcome was seen in 44 (78.6%) eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

Retinopathy of prematurity in posterior zone I presents with atypical morphology and poor outcomes despite confluent laser photocoagulation.

Intravitreal bevacizumab as rescue therapy following treatment failure with laser photocoagulation in retinopathy of prematurity

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in case of treatment failure with laser photocoagulation in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

METHODS

A retrospective review of infants treated with IVB injection due to treatment failure with laser photocoagulation was performed. The anatomical results and complications were evaluated after treatment.

RESULTS

9 eyes of 6 premature infants with a mean gestational age of 26.8 ± 3.0 weeks (range, 23-32 w) and mean birth weight of 958 ± 319 g (range, 600-1400 g) were identified. Six of the eyes had zone 1 disease, and all of these eyes were classified as aggressive posterior ROP (APROP). Three of the eyes had zone 2 disease, and one of these eyes was classified as APROP, and the other two eyes were classified as high-risk pre-threshold disease. All of the eyes showed regression of the disease except one patient, both eyes of whom progressed to stage 4A. None of the patients developed ocular and systemic complications at the end of the six-month follow-up period.

CONCLUSION

IVB could be an option in patients with ROP in whom laser photocoagulation failed.

Evolving Concepts in the Management of Retinopathy of Prematurity

PURPOSE

The introduction of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents has stimulated considerable reexamination of treatment strategies for the management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Herein we summarize and review evolving concepts and provide a personal perspective on clinical management today and future directions of treatment.

DESIGN

Literature review.

METHODS

To synthesize the evolving management concepts for diagnosis and treatment of retinopathy of prematurity and to provide interpretation and perspective on current emerging therapies.

RESULTS

Although initial treatment strategies focused on ablative therapy for threshold ROP, earlier treatment for type 1 or pre-threshold disease has been found to decrease unfavorable visual and structural outcomes. Vascular endothelial growth factor has emerged as a significant contributor to retinal-vascular diseases in the previous 2 decades. The potential role of anti-VEGF treatment for type 1 ROP has become a focus in recent years, but the protracted recurrence of disease and unknown adverse ocular and systemic effects have caused concern from some clinicians. In addition, the use of telemedicine technologies may provide the ability to screen remote areas with a shortage of ROP providers, thereby reducing the burden of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis and management of ROP has changed over the past 40 years; the role of anti-VEGF therapy remains to be established in current treatment strategies. Screening for initial disease and progression will likely be impacted by the increasing prevalence of telemedicine and relative shortage of clinicians.

Comparison of efficacy between anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and laser treatment in Type-1 and threshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)

Background

Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) is one of the most common causes of childhood blindness worldwide. Comparisons of anti-VEGF and laser treatments in ROP are relatively lacking, and the data are scattered and limited. The objective of this meta-analysis is to compare the efficacy of both treatments in type-1 and threshold ROP.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search on ROP treatment was conducted using PubMed and Embase up to March 2017 in all languages. Major evaluation indexes were extracted from the included studies by two authors. The fixed-effects and random-effects models were used to measure the pooled estimates. The test of heterogeneity was performed using the Q statistic.

Results

Ten studies were included in this meta-analysis. Retreatment incidence was significantly increased for anti-VEGF (OR 2.52; 95% CI 1.37 to 4.66; P = 0.003) compared to the laser treatment, while the incidences of eye complications (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.82; P = 0.02) and myopia were significantly decreased with anti-VEGF compared to the laser treatment. However, there was no difference in the recurrence incidence (OR 1.86; 95% CI 0.37 to 9.40; P = 0.45) and time between treatment and retreatment (WMD 7.54 weeks; 95% CI 2.00 to 17.08; P = 0.12).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis indicates that laser treatment may be more efficacious than anti-VEGF treatment. However, the results of this meta-analysis also suggest that laser treatment may cause more eye complications and increase myopia. Large-scale prospective RCTs should be performed to assess the efficacy and safety of anti-VEGF versus laser treatment in the future.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12886-018-0685-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Efficacy of Intravitreal Bevacizumab for the Treatment of Zone I Type 1 Retinopathy of Prematurity

Purpose

To describe the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab for the treatment of type 1 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in zone I.

Methods

Preterm infants with type 1 ROP in zone I (zone I ROP, any stage with plus disease or zone I ROP, stage 3 without plus disease) were enrolled in this prospective study. Intravitreal bevacizumab (0.625 mg/0.025 ml) was injected under topical anesthesia. Patients were followed weekly for 4 weeks and then biweekly till 90 weeks gestational age.

Results

Seventy eyes of 35 patients with type 1 ROP in zone I were enrolled. At a gestational age of 90 weeks, ROP regressed with complete or near-complete peripheral retinal vascularization, in 82.9% of eyes after a single injection and in 92.9% of eyes after up to two injections. In five eyes (7.1%), ROP progressed to stage 4B or 5, so surgical management was required. There were no major complications such as endophthalmitis, cataract, or vitreous hemorrhage after injection.

Conclusion

Intravitreal bevacizumab injection is an effective method for the management of patients with Zone I ROP requiring treatment; however, some cases may progress to more advanced stages and require surgical management. Close monitoring for recurrence or progression is necessary. Eyes with persistent zone I ROP may progress to advanced stages when treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injection and re-treatment may be needed.

The inner retinal structures of the eyes of children with a history of retinopathy of prematurity

PurposeTo investigate the microstructural differences of the inner retina in the peripapillary and macular areas in children with or without retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).MethodsThis prospective cohort study included school-age children with a history of ROP and age-matched healthy, full-term children. The macular ganglion cell complex (mGCC), peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), refractive status, and ocular biometry were measured. The metrics of the mGCC and associated anatomical changes were the primary outcomes. Mann-Whitney U tests and chi-squared tests were used to compare variables between the two groups.ResultsA total of 41 eyes from 21 preterm children with ROP and 34 eyes from 17 full-term children were enrolled. ROP eyes had significantly thicker mGCC (P<0.001) with uneven distribution compared with full-term eyes. The RNFLs of ROP eyes were thicker in the temporal quadrants but thinner in the nasal quadrants (P=0.01 and.04, respectively). In addition, the ROP eyes had shallower anterior chamber depths (ACDs), thicker lenses, and higher degrees of refractive errors (all P<0.05) but similar axial lengths (ALs) (P=0.58) compared with full-term eyes.ConclusionsThe mGCC was thicker in children with ROP, and their inner retinal structures had a different distribution pattern than those in full-term children. The myopia of children with ROP was associated with the abnormal development of the anterior segment rather than long ALs. These alterations in inner retinal anatomy and optic components emphasize the importance of careful examinations to monitor the development of glaucoma or visual decline in children with ROP.