Comparing the Efficacy of Intravitreal Dexamethasone and Time-displaced Fluocinolone Acetonide on Central Retinal Thickness in Patients with Uveitis.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To compare the efficacy of intravitreally administered dexamethasone (Dex) and subsequent time-displaced fluocinolone acetonide (FA) on central subfield thickness (CST) in eyes with noninfectious uveitis. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of twenty-three eyes (18 patients) subsequently receiving intravitreal Dex and FA implants. The main outcome measures were CST, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and status of inflammation. RESULTS: CST (Dex p < .0001; FA p = .0008) and BCVA (Dex p = .0009; FA p = .0005) improved significantly with both implants. Significantly better effects were noted with Dex for absolute and relative CST reduction (p = .0089 and p = .0051, respectively). Final BCVA did not differ between groups (p = .1893). Dex significantly increased IOP, whereas FA did not. One eye was actively inflamed after Dex and FA injection at follow-up (inflamed eyes before injection [Dex 2; FA 6]). CONCLUSION: Both implants significantly reduced CST and induced a significant gain in visual acuity. Dex might be more effective in reducing CST.