Low-dose ranibizumab administration in retinopathy of prematurity

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the e ciency of low dose intravitreal ranibizumab therapy in the treatment of aggressive posterior premature retinopathy (APROP).Methods: A total of 124 eyes of 62 patients who underwent intravitreal ranibizumab with APROP diagnosis between January 2015-January 2021 were evaluated retrospectively. After receiving familyapproved informed consent, low-dose intravitreal ranibizumab was administered and regular follow-ups were performed.Results: Patients included in the study had a mean birth week of 26.6 (23-33 weeks), a mean birth weight of 905 (450-1970) grams, an average injection week post-natal 9.1 (4-19) weeks. The mean follow-up period was 63 (24-250) weeks. In all eyes, it was observed that ROP was regressed in the rst week control after injection and no asymmetrical response was observed in the eyes of any baby. A 58 eyes recovered with a single dose of intravitreal injection therapy and peripheral retinal vascularization was completed. A second injection was required in 38 eyes. Rescue treatment was applied in addition to intravitreal ranibizumab treatment in 22 eyes of 11 babies. None of the patients had any ocular or systemic side effects.Conclusıon: Low-dose intravitreal ranibizumab injection with close follow-up and appropriate timing is an effective treatment modality in APROP. Even in patients undergoing rescue laser treatment, the treatment can be completed with a wider visual eld.