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Articles

Biologic Treatment Options for Retinal Neovascularization in Behçet’s Disease

, MD, PhD, , MD, , MD, PhD, , MD, PhD & , MD, PhD
Pages 51-57 | Received 19 Dec 2016, Accepted 15 May 2017, Published online: 12 Jul 2017
 

ABSTRACT

Purpose: Relapsing ocular inflammation occurs in about 70% of patients with Behçet’s disease (BD) and can lead to permanent loss of vision. Neovascularization of the optic disc (NVD) or elsewhere in the retina (NVE) is a relatively uncommon but severe complication that lacks standardized treatment.

Methods: We report on the therapeutic use of anti-TNF monoclonal antibodies for BD-associated NVD and NVE in one pediatric patient (subcutaneous adalimumab) and one young man (intravenous infliximab). Also, we review the previously published experience on biologic therapeutic options, namely anti-TNF agents and interferon-alpha in a total of three and eight patients, respectively.

Results: A fast-onset therapeutic effect was observed in both patients leading to complete regression of neovascularizations.

Conclusions: Both options may lead to regression of neovascularization, thus preventing loss of vision, but comparative studies need to determine the optimal treatment for this sight-threatening complication of BD.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

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