Anterior segment uses of bevacizumab.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: A significant recent advancement in the treatment of neovascularization of the anterior segment of the eye is the development of antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapeutic agents.We present a review of the current knowledge on anti-VEGF therapy with bevacizumab for anterior segment neovascularization.

RECENT FINDINGS: A review of the recent peer-reviewed literature reveals an increasing number of experimental and clinical studies on the use of Avastin in both human and animal eye models. Although the numbers are still relatively small, the evidence suggests that bevacizumab may be effective in the treatment of corneal and iris neovascularization. Its effect on primary and recurrent pterygium is more controversial. In general, achievement of vessels regression is usually partial, and recurrence may occur after cessation of treatment. Response to treatment is affected by the chronicity of vessels, their extent, the cause for blood vessels formation, and the route of administration.

SUMMARY: Effective short-term response together with high patient tolerance to local bevacizumab therapy offer encouraging results for the management of anterior segment neovascular disorders. Although statistically significant regression of vessels has been documented in many studies, the clinical significance of this finding is still a subject of debate.