Subtenon Injections of Ranibizumab Arrest Growth in Early Recurrent Pterygium
Linda Rose1, Julia M Byrd, Yousuf Qaseem
1Department of Ophthalmology (L.R.), University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM; Department of Ophthalmology (J.M.B.), University of Utah Health Center, Salt Lake City, Utah; and School of Medicine (Y.Q.), University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM.
Eye & Contact Lens
|October 19, 2016
Summary
Ranibizumab injections may halt recurrent pterygium growth in half of patients. This medical treatment shows promise for controlling pterygium progression and potentially avoiding repeat surgeries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Treatments
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Recurrent pterygium treatment currently relies solely on surgical intervention.
- There is a need for effective medical alternatives to manage recurrent pterygium growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of subtenon ranibizumab as a non-surgical treatment for recurrent pterygia.
- To assess the drug's impact on pterygium vascularity and growth over one year.
Main Methods:
- A phase 1 clinical trial involving eight participants with recurrent pterygia.
- Subtenon ranibizumab was administered at varying doses over three initial time points.
- Safety was monitored through visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and ocular surface assessments. Efficacy was determined by quantitative photographic analysis of vascularity.
Main Results:
- Four participants (50%) experienced arrested pterygium growth with significant reduction in vascularity.
- Short-term follow-up showed an average vascularized area of 51% of baseline in responders and 69% in non-responders.
- Long-term analysis revealed sustained reduction in vascularity for responders (36% of baseline).
Conclusions:
- Subtenon ranibizumab demonstrated the ability to arrest pterygium growth in 50% of subjects.
- The variable response suggests potential utility in managing recurrent pterygia and possibly preventing further surgical interventions.
- Further research is warranted to optimize treatment protocols and identify predictors of response.
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