Abstract
Purpose: :
The use of intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin, Genentech)has expanded significantly for the treatment of multiple choroidal and retinal diseases in adults, leading to early use in pediatric patients. Evaluated is the experience with this medication in pediatric patients for both safety and efficacy
Methods: :
Review of injections of intravitreal bevacizumab injections at Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX and James W. Aston Ambulatory Care Center at UT Southwestern Medical Center in pediatric patients from 2007 to present. 7 eyes in 5 patients were identified who underwent a total of 39 intravitreal injections. Injections were performed with 1.25mg (0.05mL of 25 mg/mL) of bevacizumab intravitreally.
Results: :
After the injections there was observable clinical improvement in visual acuity and clinical appearance. Additionally, there were no associated complications from the procedures and no apparent toxicity of the medication was observed during follow up assessment
Conclusions: :
This series of 39 injections adds to the body of evidence that supports intravitreal bevacizumab as a safe and effective therapy,extends follow-up intervals, adds additional data to previous case series and describes an additional use for intravitreal bevacizumab