Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of the macula in preterm infants treated with bevacizumab for retinopathy of prematurity.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

To examine the macula in preterm infants treated with bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

Twenty eyes (of 11 patients) treated with Avastin only or in addition to photocoagulation and vitreous surgery were included. Imaging was performed with a portable spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) device. Macular measurements, including the foveal and parafoveal index were calculated. RetCam (Clarity Medical Systems, Pleasanton, CA) photographs were obtained for all patients.

RESULTS

Mean age of patients at OCT examination was 28.9 months (range: 4 to 50 months). Thirteen eyes (65%) developed foveal contour (FC), and seven eyes (35%) did not. Earlier gestational age and zone I disease were associated with absence of FC development. In patients without FC, two of the five eyes had vision better than 20/400, compared with 10 of 11 eyes with FC.

CONCLUSION

Vision tends to be better in Avastin-treated eyes when an FC is present. Morphological characteristics of retinal anatomy may predict visual function.