A lower dose of intravitreal conbercept effectively treats retinopathy of prematurity

Yong Cheng1,2,3,4, Qingyu Meng1,2,3,4, Dandan Linghu1,2,3,4

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.

Scientific Reports
|July 18, 2018
PubMed

Insights

A low dose of intravitreal conbercept (IVC) effectively treats retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in Zone II. This treatment showed high success rates with no adverse ocular outcomes in premature infants.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neonatology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Intravitreal conbercept (IVC) is used for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
  • Concerns exist regarding systemic VEGF reduction and potential complications in premature infants due to IVC's systemic absorption.
  • Evaluating lower IVC dosages is crucial for safety and efficacy in vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the efficacy of a low dosage (0.15 mg) of intravitreal conbercept (IVC) for treating Zone II Stage 2/3+ retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
  • To assess the safety and ocular outcomes of this low-dose IVC treatment in premature infants.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 38 eyes from 20 infants with Zone II Stage 2/3+ ROP treated with low-dose IVC (0.15 mg).
  • Treatment effectiveness was defined as complete regression of retinopathy and retinal vascularization to zone III.
  • Infant demographics included mean gestational age (GA) of 28.6 weeks, postmenstrual age (PMA) at treatment of 39.3 weeks, and birth weight (BW) of 1297.5 g.

Main Results:

  • Primary effectiveness was observed in 84.2% (32/38 eyes) with a single low-dose IVC injection.
  • Secondary effectiveness, requiring a second IVC injection, was noted in 15.8% (6/38 eyes).
  • Follow-up until 90 weeks PMA revealed no recurrence of plus disease or neovascularization, indicating sustained efficacy and safety.

Conclusions:

  • A low dosage of 0.15 mg intravitreal conbercept (IVC) is effective for treating Zone II Stage 2/3+ retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
  • The treatment demonstrated a favorable safety profile with no adverse ocular outcomes during the follow-up period.
  • This low-dose IVC approach offers a potentially safer alternative for managing ROP in premature infants.

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