Abstract
Purpose::
To report the effects of subconjunctival Avastin in a series of patients with corneal neovascularization.
Methods::
A retrospective chart review of five patients with acute or chronic corneal neovascularization in the setting of graft rejection in penetrating keratoplasty (n = 2), lamellar keratoplasty (n = 1), neurotrophic keratitis (n = 1), and KID syndrome (n = 1) were given 1-4 subconjunctival injections of 1.25 mg Avastin in 0.01 cc diluent adjacent to the site of neovascular pannus. Patients were then followed (mean 4 months) to document the effects of the Avastin on corneal neovascularization and visual acuity.
Results::
Improvement in corneal neovascularization (as evidenced by partial regression of vessels or the presence of ghost vessels) and ≥ 1 line of Snellen visual acuity were noted in 3 patients. Stable neovascularization and Snellen visual acuity were noted in one patient. One patient was lost to follow-up. No adverse outcomes related to subconjunctival injection of Avastin have been noted to date.
Conclusions::
Despite the small number of enrolled patients, Avastin appears to be a safe and possibly effective treatment for corneal neovascularization. This series suggests a potential role for Avastin in the treatment of ocular surface disease which will require validation by prospective randomized clinical trials.
Keywords: cornea: clinical science • neovascularization