Use of antiVEGF drugs in ophthalmology

Abstract

Intravitreal injections of antibodies blocking VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) are an effective treatment for the wet form of ageâ?'related macular degeneration, macular edema in retinal vein occlusion, diabetic macular edema, and choroidal neovascular membranes in less frequent macular diseases. A blockade of VEGF leads to interference of the permeability of retinal and choroidal blood vessels, angiogenesis, cytokine production and influences the inflammatory response. There are currently 2 approved antiVEGF drugs (ranibizumab and aflibercept), with a multicentre, randomized, clinical trial showing a positive clinical effect as well as a good safety profile.