Bevacizumab (Avastin) Therapy for Macular Oedema in Central Retinal Vein Occlusion – Long Term Results

Background: There is no proven treatment for vision loss in central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Bevacizumab has been reported in small series with limited followup to have a positive effect in reducing macular edema (CME) and improving vision in central retinal vein occlusion . We report long term results of Bevacizumab in central retinal vein occlusion. Methods: Prospective interventional case series included 15 patients, serially evaluated with ETDRS BCVA, OCT, FFA and Tonometry. Results were statistically analysed. Results: Mean followup was 12 +/-3.6 months (range 6 -18 months). Mean number of injections 2.2 (range 14) per patient. Statistically significant reduction of macular thickness (P<0.001) was seen at 6 weeks (mean 346μ), 3months (353μ), 6months (348μ) and final followup (342μ). Significant BCVA improvement seen at 6 weeks (Mean .27 logmar), 3 months (.3 logmar), 6 months (.15 logmar) and final followup (.21 logmar) (P=0.009). 73.3 % patients had > 2 lines of BCVA improvement at last followup. Conclusion: Intravitreal Bevacizumab is an effective treatment option for CME in CRVO patients. Re-injections at appropriate timing based on the OCT findings are important for better visual outcome