[Implantable intravitreal corticosteroids in chronic noninfectious uveitis]

Uveitis leads to blindness in 10-15% of all cases in industrialized nations. The prevalence varies depending on the literature, ranging from 9 to 730 cases per 100,000 inhabitants. Local and systemic steroid applications, along with treatment involving immunomodulators, are the primary treatment options. In cases of chronic and refractory uveitis, especially with the manifestation of uveitic macular edema, intravitreal corticosteroids can contribute to reduce or completely replace systemic immunomodulatory therapy with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologics or corticosteroids.

This review article presents the currently available intravitreal corticosteroid implants used in the treatment of noninfectious uveitis. The indications, effectiveness, and side effect profiles are discussed within the context of the current literature. A total of 6 randomized controlled studies about FAc and DEX implants with more than 100 patients were included in this review. One subgroup analysis from a multicentric randomized study with 315 patients has been included as well. The outcome is discussed in this article.

The efficacy and safety profile of intravitreal corticosteroids in uveitic macular edema have been evaluated in several studies in recent years. In some studies, they have been compared to systemic treatment options. With long-acting corticosteroid implants the number of relapses can be reduced and the time interval between relapses can be prolonged. Short-acting corticosteroid implants represent a treatment option during acute uveitic activity. The adverse effects of corticosteroids can be well-controlled in most cases. In phakic and/or young patients, however, adverse effects (such as cataract development) should be discussed in depth before treatment initiation as most corticosteroids are applied as long-term treatment.