Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for choroidal neovascularization secondary to ocular histoplasmosis syndrome

Abstract

Background: Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy is beneficial in treating choroidal neovascularization from age-related macular degeneration, but few long-term studies have shown its efficacy in choroidal neovascularization from ocular histoplasmosis syndrome. Intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy may be effective in cases of choroidal neovascularization because of ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of 54 eyes treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy for choroidal neovascularization in ocular histoplasmosis syndrome with >1 year of follow-up after initiation of anti-VEGF treatment was performed. Previous treatment and demographic information were recorded. Visual acuity was recorded for each injection treatment and at the last follow-up visit. The anti-VEGF agent was recorded for each injection treatment. Visual acuity was recorded at the last follow-up visit.

Results: Mean visual acuity improved from 20/53 to 20/26 over an average of 26.8 months. Either bevacizumab or ranibizumab were administered on an average of 4.5 injections per patient per year of follow-up. Vision loss was seen in only three eyes with loss limited to a single line of vision. Patients experienced no serious complications from treatment.

Conclusion: Long-term intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy with bevacizumab or ranibizumab is beneficial in treatment of choroidal neovascularization in ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.