Interferon Alfa-2a: A New Treatment Option for Long Lasting Refractory Cystoid Macular Edema in Uveitis?

Abstract

IFN alfa-2a can be a treatment option for patients with otherwise treatment resistant uveitic CME.

Uveitis Treatment Trials—A Cross-study Perspective

“…Systemic symptoms such as malaise, arthralgias, fatigue, nausea, and anorexia occurred in each case, but in no patient were the symptoms so severe that interferon therapy was discontinued. Similar success has been reported in Europe with interferon alpha 2a for the treatment of both uveitic 40,41 and pseudophakic macular edema (Irvine-Gass syndrome). 42 Taken together, the two studies highlighted here offer further support for the use of biologic agents, specifically the TNF-α inhibitors and interferon, in the treatment of sight-threatening uveitis and its complications.…”

Long-term control of cystoid macular oedema in noninfectious uveitis with Mycophenolate Mofetil

“…There is no data regarding CMO control in active uveitis; recently, Deuter and co-workers described the safety and efficacy of interferon-a in patients with quiet uveitis and persistent CMO [28], but no other papers have been published.…”

Weak transient response of chronic uveitic macular edema to intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin)

“…As regards chronic CME, however, other alternatives have also to be taken into consideration, e.g. interferone which showed a good response in a very similar patient cohort [10].…”