Title:Anti-VEGF Treatment in Corneal Diseases
Volume: 21
Issue: 12
Author(s): Giuseppe Giannaccare, Marco Pellegrini, Cristina Bovone, Rossella Spena, Carlotta Senni, Vincenzo Scorcia and Massimo Busin*
Affiliation:
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ospedale Privato “Villa Igea”, Forli,Italy
Keywords:
Anti-VEGF, neovessels, cornea, bevacizumab, avastin, ranibizumab, corneal neovascularization, vascular endothelial
growth factor.
Abstract:
Background: Corneal neovascularization (CN) is a clue feature of different ocular pathological
conditions and can lead to corneal edema and opacification with subsequent vision loss. Vascular
endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which plays a key role in new vessels formation, proliferation
and migration, was found to be up-regulated in these conditions. Nowadays, it is possible to downregulate
the angiogenic process by using anti-VEGF agents administered by different routes.
Objective: To evaluate the efficacy, safety and possible future directions of anti-VEGF agents used for
the treatment of CNV owing to different aetiologies.
Methods: A computerized search of articles dealing with the topic of anti-VEGF therapy in CN was
conducted in PubMed, Scopus and Medline electronic databases. The following key phrases were
used: anti-VEGF agents, corneal neovascularization, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, vascular endothelial
growth factor, angiogenesis.
Results: The use of anti-VEGF therapy in the treatment of CN reduced pathological vessel density
without causing significant side effects. Various administration routes such as topical, subconjunctival
and intrastromal ones are available, and the choice depends on patient and disease characteristics.
Much more effectiveness is achieved in case of early administration before mature and wellestablished
vessels take place. A combined approach between various drugs including anti-VEGF
agents should be adopted in those cases at higher risk of neovascularization recurrence such as chronic
long-standing diseases where ischemic and inflammatory stimuli are not definitively reversed.
Conclusion: The efficacy and safety of anti-VEGF agents support their adoption into the daily clinical
practice for the management of CN.