Intraocular Pressure after Intravitreal Triesence Injection

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a known risk of intravitreal corticosteroid injections.
• While preserved triamcinolone acetonide formulations have been studied, the IOP effects of preservative-free versions are less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical effect of preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide on intraocular pressure (IOP).
• To assess the incidence and pattern of IOP elevation following intravitreal injections of preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of patients receiving intravitreal injections.
• Data collected included patient demographics, glaucoma history, preinjection IOP, maximum IOP (IOPmax), dose, and indication.
• IOP measurements were recorded for both eyes following each injection.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in IOPmax was observed post-injection (mean 19.8 mm Hg vs. baseline 15.4 mm Hg, P<0.001).
• The peak IOP occurred approximately 63 days after injection.
• No significant differences in IOPmax were found between 2 mg and 4 mg doses, nor was a history of glaucoma a significant factor.

Conclusions:

• Intravitreal injection of preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide is associated with a significant rise in IOP.
• Ocular monitoring for IOP elevation is crucial after administering preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide.