Intravitreal Bevacizumab in the treatment of retinopathy of prematurity- the new gold standard
Ronni M Lieberman
Queens Hospital Network, US
: J Womens Health, Issues Care
Abstract
Bevacizumab (Avastin®, Genentech, Sa Francisco, CA) is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that blocks angiogenesis by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A). It has been used successfully in the treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema and proliferative retinopathy, and other retinal vascular diseases. It has been shown to be effective and safe in the treatment of specific stages of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The purpose of this talk is to compare and contrast Intravitreal injection of Bevacizumab with laser treatment, the current standard of care of care, and discuss the evolving treatment options in this disease. A number of multi center based studies will be discussed, including Early Treatment for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ETROP) and Bevacizumab Eliminates the Angiogenic Threat of Retinopathy of Prematurity [BEAT-ROP], as well as a recent meta-analysis on the subject. In addition, our personal experience over a number of years at 2 large centers in New York will be included. Treatment algorithms will be included.