Intravitreal 0.18-mg fluocinolone acetonide implant for pediatric uveitis

Abstract

We report the outcomes of the 0.18-mg intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant (FAi) in the treatment of pediatric non-infectious uveitis. A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients under 18 years of age who received FAi between June 1, 2020 and March 1, 2023. Data collected included demographics, uveitis diagnosis, use of anti-inflammatory therapy, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and grading of uveitis activity. Uveitis recurrence was defined as increased inflammation that required additional anti-inflammatory therapy Eleven eyes from seven patients were included in this study. One patient (one eye) had a diagnosis of immune recovery uveitis and the remaining six patients (10 eyes) had pars planitis. The rate of remaining recurrence-free was 82% at 6 months, 60% at 12 months, and 60% at 24 months. Two of the six phakic eyes at baseline required cataract extraction during follow-up. Two of the four eyes that did not have IOP-lowering surgery prior to implantation required surgery in follow-up. The 0.18-mg FAi has a similar efficacy for the treatment of pediatric uveitis, particularly pars planitis, as in the adult population, although with higher rates of ocular hypertension requiring intervention.