In a nutshell
This study examined the use of an Ozurdex (dexamethasone) implant in people with diabetic macular edema (DME). It determined that the implant improved vision in these patients.
Some background
DME is a common complication of diabetes. It is swelling in an area at the back of the eye called the macula. DME can result in visual impairment or loss. DME occurs as a result of diabetic retinopathy. In diabetic retinopathy blood vessels in the retina (part of the eye) become damaged, may become leaky, and may increase in number.
Dexamethasone us a steroid used to treat DME. Steroids are anti-inflammatory and inhibit blood vessel formation. An implant that releases dexamethasone (intravitreal implant) can be injected into the back of the eye to treat DME.
Methods & findings
27 adults with DME due to type 2 diabetes were given a dexamethasone intravitreal implant. The participants were followed up at regular intervals for a total of 1 year. In this time 18 participants received a second dexamethasone intravitreal implant. At follow-up best visual acuity (BCVA; a measure of vision function), central macular thickness (CMT; swelling), retinal sensitivity, and electrical activity in the retina were examined.
BCVA began to improve after 1 month and was still improved up to 5 months after treatment. BCVA returned to previous levels after 6 months. CMT and retinal sensitivity were improved for up to 4 months after treatment before returning to previous levels. No major changes in the electrical activity in the retina were found. After 12 months no differences were found between patients who had received either 1 or 2 implants.
The bottom line
The study concluded that the dexamethasone intravitreal implant improved BCVA, CMT, and retinal sensitivity for several months after treatment.
The fine print
This study only examined a small number of patients, which could lead to inaccuracy. Moreover, no other treatments were compared to the dexamethasone intravitreal implant.
What’s next?
Discuss the dexamethasone intravitreal implant with your physician.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Dec 31, 2015
