Intravitreal aflibercept for idiopathic choroidal neovascularisation in paediatric age

BMJ Case Rep. 2023 Jan 12;16(1):e252270. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2022-252270.

Abstract

A boy in early adolescence presented with a 1-week history of visual acuity impairment in his right eye (RE). Fundus examination of the RE revealed an elevated yellow-greyish lesion in the inferior temporal juxtafoveolar area. Findings on optical coherence tomography, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography angiography were compatible with active choroidal neovascularisation (CNV). In the absence of a primary ocular pathology and a potential systemic secondary cause, it was assumed an idiopathic aetiology of CNV. The child was treated with intravitreal injections of aflibercept, showing good anatomical and functional responses. No complications were recorded after the injections. CNV in children is a rare ocular condition that can lead to permanent visual acuity impairment. Although the therapeutic approach remains controversial, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor intravitreal injections represent a safe and effective therapeutic option for CNV in children.

Keywords: Eye; Macula; Paediatric prescribing; Paediatrics (drugs and medicines); Retina.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors* / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Choroidal Neovascularization* / diagnostic imaging
  • Choroidal Neovascularization* / drug therapy
  • Choroidal Neovascularization* / etiology
  • Fluorescein Angiography / methods
  • Humans
  • Intravitreal Injections
  • Male
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / therapeutic use
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence / methods

Substances

  • aflibercept
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor