Topical bevacizumab therapy for corneal neovascularization.

Angiogenesis has been defined as the formation of new blood vessels from preexisting vascular structures. Corneal neovascularization (NV) occurs when the balance between angiogenic and antiangiogenic factors shifts toward angiogenic factors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been found to be a significant angiogenic factor in corneal NV in human and animal models. Therapy specifically aimed at VEGF may suppress corneal NV and increase the chance of transplant survival. We report the use of a topical formulation of bevacizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody to VEGF, in 2 patients with significant corneal NV.