Combined Use Of Subconjunctival And Intracorneal Bevacizumab Injection For Corneal Neovascularization

1. Peter Kim
2. Sonia N. Yeung
3. Alejandro Lichtinger
4. Maoz D. Amiran
5. Allan R. Slomovic

Toronto Western Hospital, Univeristy of Toronto, Toronto, Canada

Purpose: To report on the safety and clinical use of combined subconjunctival and intracorneal bevacizumab for corneal neovascularization.

Methods: The charts of 12 consecutive patients with corneal neovascularization who received combined subconjunctival and intracorneal injections of bevacizumab (2.5 mg/0.1 ml) were reviewed. Patients received 1 to 3 injections of 2.5 mg bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 ml subconjunctival and 1.25 mg/0.05 ml intrastromal). Morphologic changes were assessed clinically by one investigator.

Results: Combined subconjunctival and intracorneal injections of bevacizumab were effective and well-tolerated. No significant ocular or systemic adverse events were observed during 6.9 months (range, 0.25 to 24 months) of follow-up. All patients showed a reduction in the neovascularized area.

Conclusions: Short-term results suggest that combined subconjunctival and intracorneal injections of bevacizumab are an effective method for reducing corneal neovascularization. It may thereby be a useful option or adjunct to other treatments in stabilizing or improving vision.