Long-term topical bevacizumab for prevention of corneal graft rejections.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of 1% topical bevacizumab (10 mg/mL) on newly formed corneal neovascularization (NV) after penetrating keratoplasty (PK).

METHODS: This is a retrospective case series reporting three eyes (three patients) of with newly formed corneal NV after corneal transplantation. All eyes had pre-existing corneal NVs and were high risk corneal graft rejection cases. One percent topical bevacizumab was started immediately after corneal NV formation post-PK. Topical bevacizumab was kept at twice weekly throughout the follow-up period.

RESULTS: Regression of corneal NV without donor graft invasion was noted in all three patients (100%). Duration of topical bevacizumab use was 13 to 36 months. All three corneal grafts (100%) remained clear and no signs of graft rejection were noted for the period of observation. There were no associated systemic or ocular adverse effects.

CONCLUSION: Long-term use of topical 1% bevacizumab may be a safe and efficient treatment for corneal NVs and prevention of graft rejections after corneal transplantation.