Retinal changes after fluocinolone acetonide implant (ILUVIEN & REG;) for DME: SD-OCT imaging assessment using ESASO classification

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2023

Authors

Leite, J (Author) Other; Ferreira, A (Author) FMUP; Castro, C (Author) Other; Coelho, J (Author) Other; Borges, T (Author) Other; Correia, N (Author) Other; Pessoa, B (Author) Other

Journal

Title: European Journal of Ophthalmology

ISSN: 1120-6721

Publisher: WICHTIG PUBLISHING

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Y-TXB

DOI: 10.1177/11206721231183471

Abstract (EN): Introduction A detailed understanding of the anatomical and structural changes occurring in the retina following intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implantation may help improve the management and prognosis of persistent or recurrent diabetic macular edema (DME). Methods Overall, 45 eyes (from 35 patients) with refractory center-involved DME received an intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant. They were monitored at baseline and at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months for best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), and the seven retinal parameters used in the classification of diabetic maculopathy recently developed at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO). Results Within 6 months of implantation, significant improvements were evident in BCVA, CFT, maculopathy stage, and the percentage of eyes with: intraretinal cysts; CFT > 30% above the upper normal value; and disrupted or absent ellipsoid zone (EZ) and/or external limiting membrane (ELM). Significant improvements were still maintained at 36 months post-implantation. At month 36, early treatment with the implant (i.e., after < 6 previous intravitreal injections for DME) trended toward being more effective than later treatment in improving BCVA, CFT, maculopathy stage, and the percentage of eyes with CFT > 30% above the upper normal value. However, statistical significance was not achieved. Conclusion In persistent or recurrent DME, fluocinolone acetonide implantation can be effective in improving maculopathy stage and reducing the percentage of eyes with: intraretinal cysts; CFT > 30% above the upper normal value; and disrupted or absent EZ and/or ELM. It can also increase BCVA and reduce CFT.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 12