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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
Intravitreal Injections in the Ovine Eye
Published on: July 5, 2022
Case report: heart failure related to intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF
Yuying Sui1,2, Yong Zhao1,2, Nannan Zhou1,2
1Department of Geriatrics, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, 250021, Shandong, China.
Insights
Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy may impact cardiac health, particularly in elderly patients. Discontinuing treatment led to improved heart function in a case study, suggesting careful cardiac evaluation is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy is a primary treatment for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.
- Potential circulatory risks necessitate careful evaluation, especially in elderly patients.
- This case study explores the impact of intravitreal anti-VEGF on cardiac health.
Observation:
- An elderly patient without prior heart disease developed unexpected cardiac enlargement and dysfunction.
- A 10-year history of intravitreal anti-VEGF injections was identified as a potential contributing factor.
- Cardiac parameters were monitored throughout the patient's hospitalization.
Findings:
- The patient's cardiac condition showed gradual improvement after discontinuing anti-VEGF treatment.
- A 2-month follow-up period demonstrated recovery in cardiac structure and function.
- This suggests a potential link between intravitreal anti-VEGF and cardiac manifestations.
Implications:
- Cardiac examinations before and after anti-VEGF treatment are recommended, particularly for older individuals.
- Risk-benefit assessment of anti-VEGF therapy is critical for managing polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.
- This case underscores the importance of considering systemic effects of ocular treatments.
Background:
Intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor is considered the first-line treatment for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy. It has potential risks for circulatory system, which should be particularly carefully evaluated in older patients. In this case study, we aim to discuss the potential impact of this treatment regimen on cardiac health.
Case Presentation:
This case report describes an elderly patient with no prior history of heart disease who exhibited unexpected heart enlargement and dysfunction. Throughout the patient's hospital stay, various potential causes were investigated, leading to the hypothesis that a 10-year history of intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor could be related to the observed clinical manifestations. The patient was advised to discontinue this treatment, and after a 2-month follow-up period, there was a gradual improvement in the patient's cardiac structure and function.
Conclusion:
This manuscript highlights the importance of conducting cardiac examinations before and after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment, especially for individuals at risk of heart diseases like the elderly. It emphasizes the need to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of treatment regimens to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.
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