Radiation retinopathy is treatable with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor bevacizumab (Avastin).

Abstract

PURPOSE:

To report on bevacizumab treatment for radiation retinopathy affecting the macula.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Twenty-one patients with radiation retinopathy (edema, hemorrhages, capillary dropout, and neovascularization) and a subjective or objective loss of vision were treated. Treatment involved intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (1.25 mg in 0.05 mL) every 6-12 weeks. Treatment was discontinued at patient request or if there was no measurable response to therapy. Main outcome measures included best corrected visual acuity, ophthalmic examination, retinal photography, and angiography.

RESULTS:

Bevacizumab treatment was followed by reductions in retinal hemorrhage, exudation, and edema. Visual acuities were stable or improved in 86% (n=18). Three patients discontinued therapy. Each was legally blind before treatment (n=1), experienced little to no subjective improvement (n=2), or was poorly compliant (n=2). Three patients (14%) regained 2 or more lines of visual acuity. No ocular or systemic bevacizumab-related side effects were observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Intravitreal bevacizumab can be used to treat radiation retinopathy. In most cases treatment was associated with decreased vascular leakage, stabilization, or improved vision. An anti-vascular endothelial growth factor strategy may reduce tissue damage associated with radiation vasculopathy and neuropathy.

• Authors: Paul T Finger
• Journal: International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics (Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys) Vol. 70 Issue 4 Pg. 974-7 (Mar 15 2008) ISSN: 0360-3016 [Print] United States
• PMID: 18313522 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Angiogenesis Inhibitors
• Antibodies, Monoclonal
• Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
• Radioisotopes
• Bevacizumab
• Palladium

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Angiogenesis Inhibitors (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Antibodies, Monoclonal (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
• Bevacizumab
• Choroid Neoplasms (radiotherapy)
• Humans
• Injections (methods)
• Melanoma (radiotherapy)
• Middle Aged
• Palladium (therapeutic use)
• Radiation Injuries (drug therapy)
• Radioisotopes (therapeutic use)
• Retina (radiation effects)