Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide therapy in serpiginous-like choroiditis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology

Background:

• Serpiginous-like choroiditis (SLC) is an inflammatory condition affecting the choroid.
• Management often requires systemic immunosuppression, carrying potential side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of 2 mg intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) for SLC.
• To assess lesion resolution, recurrence, paradoxical worsening, and systemic medication burden.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study of 14 patients (15 eyes) with SLC treated with 2 mg IVTA.
• Minimum follow-up of 6 months, analyzing lesion resolution, recurrence, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and systemic corticosteroid use.

Main Results:

• Mean lesion resolution time was 2.7 months (clinical) and 5.9 months (FAF).
• No paradoxical worsening occurred; recurrence in 3 eyes, 2 without anti-tubercular therapy (ATT).
• Best-corrected visual acuity improved; 33.3% experienced manageable IOP elevation; 38.4% developed cataracts.

Conclusions:

• 2 mg IVTA is effective for SLC lesion resolution with reduced systemic therapy needs.
• The treatment demonstrates an acceptable safety profile and no paradoxical worsening.
• Larger prospective studies are recommended for validation.