
A pterygium is defined as a fibrovascular and hyperplastic proliferative degeneration tissue of the limbus. Although the pathogenesis is not yet clearly understood there are indications that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) may play a significant role in the development. Despite various surgical approaches recurrence remains the major postoperative problem. Bevacizumab is a human monoclonal antibody against VEGF. Its antiangiogenic effect is used in ophthalmology as an off-label treatment for retinal disease. We report about the use of Bevacizumab eye drops to prevent repeated recurrence of pterygia.In our clinic 5 eyes (4 patients) were treated with topical Bevacizumab eye drops (25 mg/ml) 2-8 times per day for 5-24 weeks as an adjunct after excision of recurrent pterygia and conjunctival autograft. Patients were examined preoperatively and over a follow-up period ranging from 3-14 months (median 12 months).Visual acuity improved in 3 out of 5 eyes and in 1 eye no pterygium recurrence was noted. Two eyes showed conjunctival hyperemia (stage 1 recurrence) and one eye showed fibrosis of the limbus (stage 2 recurrence). In one eye an early recurrence with corneal vascularisation and superficial punctate keratopathy was observed (stage 3 recurrence). No serious permanent complications were observed.Considering the previously multiple recurrences in our patients we think that these first clinical mid-term follow-up experiences support the use of topical VEGF inhibitors in recurrent pterygia.
Adult, Male, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A, Antibodies, Monoclonal, Angiogenesis Inhibitors, Middle Aged, Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized, Pterygium, Bevacizumab, Treatment Outcome, Secondary Prevention, Humans, Female, Aged
Adult, Male, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A, Antibodies, Monoclonal, Angiogenesis Inhibitors, Middle Aged, Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized, Pterygium, Bevacizumab, Treatment Outcome, Secondary Prevention, Humans, Female, Aged
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