Corticosteroid therapy for optic disc neovascularization secondary to chronic uveitis

To report successful corticosteroid treatment of optic disc neovascularization associated with uveitis.

Retrospective review of medical records.

Nine patients were identified with chronic uveitis and optic disc neovascularization without clinical or angiographic evidence of retinal ischemia. Ages ranged from 14 to 37 years (median age, 27). All patients were treated with either oral and/or subtenon's corticosteroids. Partial regression of the neovascularization was observed in all patients within 2 to 6 weeks (median, 5 weeks) after initiating treatment. Eight of nine patients had complete resolution of disc neovascularization at a median of 3 months (range, 2 to 42 months) after initiation of treatment and a median follow-up of 24 months (range, 7 to 144 months). Recurrence of disc neovascularization occurred in two patients, but it regressed again after further corticosteroid therapy.

Optic disc neovascularization may occur in patients with chronic uveitis in the absence of retinal ischemia. This neovascularization can be successfully treated with corticosteroids.