Biologic Treatment Options for Retinal Neovascularization in Behçet's Disease

Relapsing ocular inflammation occurs in about 70% of patients with Behçet's disease (BD) and can lead to permanent loss of vision. Neovascularization of the optic disc (NVD) or elsewhere in the retina (NVE) is a relatively uncommon but severe complication that lacks standardized treatment.

We report on the therapeutic use of anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies for BD-associated NVD and NVE in one pediatric patient (subcutaneous adalimumab) and one young man (intravenous infliximab). Also, we review the previously published experience on biologic therapeutic options, namely anti-TNF agents and interferon-alpha in a total of three and eight patients, respectively.

A fast-onset therapeutic effect was observed in both patients leading to complete regression of neovascularizations.

Both options may lead to regression of neovascularization, thus preventing loss of vision, but comparative studies need to determine the optimal treatment for this sight-threatening complication of BD.