PRN Ranibizumab in the Treatment of Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Ocular Histoplasmosis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech, South San Francisco, CA) is used off-label for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization secondary to ocular histoplasmosis syndrome (OHS). This study prospectively evaluates the safety and efficacy of two treatment paradigms utilizing ranibizumab 0.5 mg: one or three initial injections followed by monthly visits with PRN treatment through Month 12. PATENTS AND METHODS: In this prospective, open-label study, 21 subjects were evaluated monthly and retreated during the pro re nata treatment phase if specific criteria were met, including loss of vision, increase in subretinal fluid, or hemorrhage. Adverse events, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and central subfield retinal thickness (CST) were evaluated. RESULTS: No adverse events were observed. Mean BCVA improved in both groups by approximately 2 lines, and mean CST decreased by approximately 100 mu m at month 12. The number of injections was the same (5.7 and 5.8 injections). CONCLUSION: Results suggest that ranibizumab is safe and efficacious for treatment of CNV secondary to OHS.