Intravitreal aflibercept for patients with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy: A retrospective trial

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate whether intravitreal aflibercept was safe and effective in patients with acute nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Design: A retrospective analysis of a consecutive patient series. Methods: : This was a chart study of 25 individuals with acute NAION (25 eyes). Aflibercept 2 mg/0.05 ml intravitreal injection was administered to fifteen participants. The remaining ten patients in the control group were given standard care. The researchers measured the initial visual acuity, the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT), and automated perimetry. During the follow-up period, the researchers measured the final visual acuity, RNFLT, automated perimetry, and side effects. Results: : The study group had a mean follow-up time of 229.73 ± 43.44 days, while the control group had 258.90 ± 62.42 days. Visual acuity and visual field assessment were significantly improved in the study group, and optical coherence tomography testing demonstrated significant disc edema resolution. The therapy results differed significantly between the two groups regarding visual outcomes (F=0.027, P=0.039) and RNFLT decrease (F=8.934, P<0.001). However, the difference in visual field alterations between the two groups was not statistically significant (F=0.724, P=0.387). Conclusion: Intravitreal injection of aflibercept can significantly improve visual acuity and resolve disc edema in patients with acute NAION. Intravitreal aflibercept may be an alternative treatment for acute NAION. However, a large-series investigation is needed to assess the long-term therapeutic benefit and safety of intravitreal aflibercept in patients with acute NAION.