Pharmacotherapy for treatment of retinal vein occlusion

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is a common vascular condition, which may cause blindness and impaired vision as a result of the development of macular oedema. The management of macular oedema due to RVO is complex and a multidisciplinary approach is required in order to limit disease progression and achieve a better clinical outcome.

An update and a brief review on the current treatment strategies were provided in patients with macular oedema following RVOs. Evidence available from prospective, multicentre clinical studies evaluating the use of VEGF inhibitors and steroids and from a selective literature search is reported.

For many years, laser photocoagulation has been considered the standard of care for the treatment of branch RVO. However, new treatment modalities have been evaluated through randomised controlled trials. Recently, anti-VEGF agents and corticosteroids have been shown to be efficacious options in the treatment of RVO.