Introduction
To analyze visual and anatomical outcomes in patients switched to brolucizumab and previously treated with other intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents for exudative neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). These outcomes were was assessed in the real-world setting of a tertiary center with a follow-up period of 2 years.
Methods
This retrospective longitudinal study included 29 eyes of 24 patients with exudative nAMD previously treated with at least three injections of another intravitreal anti-VEGF molecule. The eyes were then treated with brolucizumab for at least 24 months following the switch. A pro re nata (“as needed”) therapeutic regimen was followed in our clinic between January 2021 and June 2024, during which time clinical and anatomical parameters were evaluated, and possible adverse events were recorded.
Results
After 24 months of treatment with brolucizumab, patients showed a significant reduction in central macular thickness (P = 0.001) and choroidal thickness (P < 0.001). Visual acuity remained stable during the follow-up period. "Poor responders" had longer disease duration and had received more injections before the switch than "good responders." Adverse events included one subretinal hemorrhage and one intraocular inflammation across 302 injections.
Conclusions
Treatment with brolucizumab is effective in patients previously treated with other therapeutic molecules. The best outcomes were achieved in patients who switched therapy to brolucizumab early in their disease. Treatment with brolucizumab in this population demonstrated an acceptable risk profile, with only one intraocular inflammatory event out of 302 intravitreal injections.
