A lower dose of intravitreal conbercept effectively treats retinopathy of prematurity

Abstract

Intravitreal Conbercept (IVC) is the latest applied and effective treatment for the management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). However, conbercept escapes from the vitreous into the general circulation and reduce systemic VEGF concentrations. Thus, there are concerns about systemic complications, in these premature infants who are developing vital organ systems. This study is to determine whether a low dosage (0.15 mg/0.015 mL) of IVC is effective in the treatment of Zone II Stage 2/3 + ROP. A total of 38 eyes of 20 infants were analyzed retrospectively. We identified treatment effectiveness as complete regression of retinopathy and retinal vascularisation to zone III. The mean gestational age (GA), postmenstrual age (PMA) at treatment and birth weights (BW) were 28.6 ± 2.2 weeks, 39.3 ± 3.0 weeks and 1297.5 ± 429.2 g respectively. Primary effectiveness (react to IVC 0.15 mg alone) was found in 32/38 eyes (84.2%). Secondary effectiveness (a second IVC was required) was found in 6/38 eyes (15.8%). Follow-up continued until 90 weeks’ postmenstrual age and showed no recurrences of plus disease or neovascularization. The study suggests 0.15 mg IVC is effective for Zone II Stage 2/3 + ROP, and there is no adverse ocular outcomes during the follow-up period.