[Real-life Evidence on Treatment Outcomes of Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration in Germany]

Treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents has been improved since its introduction in Germany. Several observational studies have demonstrated an increased frequency of injections in parallel with improved visual outcomes during the first year of treatment over the last 7 years. These results are reflected in several case series. However, studies with a longer follow-up reported that visual function regressed to baseline vision following an initial improvement, e.g. during the first three years of treatment. A delay in treatment initiation has been reported mainly for rural areas and management models involving more than one ophthalmologist or institution. Encouragingly, recent data confirm a positive trend towards reducing treatment delay, increasing injection frequency and improving treatment outcomes. Still, further improvements are needed to attain optimal treatment outcomes achievable under routine clinical conditions in Germany.