Regression of Vasoproliferative Tumor with Systemic Infliximab

Abstract

The anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) monoclonal antibody infliximab inhibits the pleiotropic actions of TNF and is widely used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, such as uveitis. A pathogenetic role of TNF in ocular inflammatory conditions has recently emerged. The authors describe a patient with collagen mixed disease who had decreased vision in the left eye. Fundus examination disclosed bilateral peripheral vasoproliferative tumors and macular edema in the left eye. The patient underwent treatment with infliximab intravenously for his systemic condition. Regression of the vasoproliferative tumors in both eyes and improvement of macular edema in the left eye was observed. Although the data are limited, anti-TNF antibodies such as infliximab may be useful in the treatment of retinal vascular tumors.

Retinal vasoproliferative tumors in ocular conditions of childhood

“…The details of treatment methods for RVPTs have been published and is beyond the scope of this study. 9,11,[13][14][15]18,24,26,27,29,36,40 In conclusion, a number of pediatric-related ocular conditions appear to predispose patients to the development of secondary RVPT. Ophthalmologists, particularly pediatric ophthalmologists and retinal specialists, should be aware of secondary RVPTs and their various ocular and nonocular associations.…”

Retinal vasoproliferative tumor

“…Japiassú et al reported an isolated case of bilateral RVPTs that showed regression after systemic treatment with infliximab (antibo dy anti tumor necrosis factor) for associated mixed collagen disea se (30) . In spite of being an isolated report, it is worth of note when we consider the known association of RVPTs with inflammatory ocular processes.…”

Intravitreal administration of adalimumab delays retinal degeneration in rd10 mice

“…TNFα is considered a therapeutic target for several inflammatory diseases. [26][27][28][29][30][31] Anti-TNFα biologics such as Adalimumab (ADA) or Infliximab are used to treat inflammatory disorders because of their effectiveness in blocking TNFα binding to its receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2. It is believed that this blockade reduces inflammation and cell death (in the form of apoptosis or other apoptosis-independent mechanisms).…”