Lower dose bevacizumab effective for retinopathy of prematurity

Results from a retrospective review showed a 30-mcg dose of intravitreal bevacizumab is as effective as a 625-mcg dose for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treatment, with subsequent laser treatment rates identical (50%) in each group. The findings support the use of a 30-mcg dose of bevacizumab for the treatment of ROP, according to a presentation at the ASRS Annual 2021 meeting.

The non-randomized, non-masked, consecutive case series of data from a single practice included infants treated with intravitreal bevacizumab for ROP by one retina specialist after switching to a 30-mcg dose in 0.03 ml (22 patients/44 eyes). The group was compared to the previous consecutive 22 patients (44 eyes) treated by the same surgeon who received a 625-mcg dose in 0.025 ml. Results showed that all eyes in both groups had initial regression of ROP. The mean estimated gestational age (EGA) and birth weights were similar between the groups as was the mean EGA at initial treatment.

In both groups, 50% of eyes received laser treatment at some point after bevacizumab. No significant difference existed between groups in the EGA at the time of laser treatment and there was no significant difference in the time from bevacizumab to laser treatment. In the 625-mcg group, one eye developed a stage 4B detachment and 3 patients died from causes unrelated to treatment.

Reference
Hejkal TW. Bevacizumab 30 mcg vs 625 mcg for retinopathy of prematurity. Presented at ASRS 2021.