Retinal Vein Occlusion.

The primary treatment against macular edema with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) has changed from observation in central RVO (CRVO) and laser photocoagulation in branch RVO (BRVO) to administration of intravitreal agents based on anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or anti-inflammatory strategies. Anti-VEGF treatment such as ranibizumab, bevacizumab, or aflibercept improved vision by 13.9-16.2 letters (best-corrected visual acuity) after 12 months versus baseline in patients with macular edema secondary to CRVO. A long-term study showed that reduced follow-up and fewer retreatments resulted in worsening visual acuity. Intravitreal therapy with anti-inflammatory agents stabilized visual acuity in CRVO. However, increased intraocular pressure and cataract progression were frequently observed. Anti-VEGF agents such as ranibizumab or bevacizumab improved visual acuity by 15.5-18.3 letters in patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO after 12 months. The improved vision remained during the long-term follow-up. There was no significant difference between standard care and intravitreal triamcinolone groups in BRVO, and increased intraocular pressure and cataract progression occurred frequently in the triamcinolone group. Anti-VEGF intravitreal administration resulted in good vision in CRVO and BRVO patients and is employed as a primary therapy. Anti-VEGF therapy requires frequent observations and intravitreal injections to maintain good vision.