Intercellular Adhesion Molecule Inhibitors as Potential Therapy for Refractory Uveitic Macular Edema

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the bioactivity of an intercellular adhesion molecule inhibitor (efalizumab) in a patient with refractory uveitic macular edema.

Methods: A 55-year-old man presented with idiopathic autoimmune uveitis and associated macular edema, which could not be controlled by regional and systemic corticosteroid and selected immunomodulatory therapy. Efalizumab was administered as subcutaneous injections.

Results: After 37 weekly injections of efalizumab, the uveitic macular edema was successfully eliminated. Six months following discontinuation of efalizumab, there were no signs of recurrent inflammation.

Conclusion: Further investigation of the role of intercellular adhesion molecule inhibitors in the management of uveitic macular edema is indicated.

KEYWORDS::

• ICAM inhibitor
• macular edema
• uveitis

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

Funding: Dr. Wang is a recipient of the Kangzhe Advanced Study Abroad Scholarship from the Chinese Ophthalmological Society. Dr. Nguyen is a recipient of a Physician Scientist Award from the Research to Prevent Blindness Foundation.

Note: Figure 1 in this article is available in colour online at www.informahealthcare.com/oii