The role of Anti-VEGF agents in treatment of neovascular glaucoma

Aim: The aim of this study was to show the efficacy of intravitreal treatment with Bevacizumab (Avastin) in patients with secondary neovascular glaucoma, in different stages of the disease. Method: A retrospective study was performed on 67 patients with neovascular glaucoma. The main parameters evaluated were the patients' history, slit lamp examination, visual acuity, ocular tonometry, fundus examination, gonioscopy, and visual field. Results: It was observed that the pathology had a preponderance in males of the 6th decade, with frequently unilateral damage. Patients were referred to an ophthalmologist when the diseases reached an advanced stage, usually when the visual acuity had no light perception and the intraocular pressure was over 45 mmHg. However, the treatment with Avastin intravitreal showed a good evolution, with regression of neovessels in the first 4-7 days and maintenance of intraocular pressure within normal limits in about 60% of cases, 3 months after injection. Conclusion: The most effective treatment in secondary neovascular glaucoma is the correct therapy of the main disease. The association of Avastin and laser photocoagulation leads to regression in iris and retinal neovessels. Abbreviations: anti-VEGF = anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, PDGF = Platelet Derived Growth Factor, bFGF = basic Fibroblast Growth Factor.