Feasibility of intravitreal erythropoietin injections in humans. Issue 12 (18th August 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lagrèze, W A; Feltgen, N; Bach, M; Jehle, T
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 93:Issue 12(2009)
• Page Start: 1667
• Page End: 1671
• Publication Date: 2009-08-18
• Subjects: Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2008.156794
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Background/aims: Preclinical data suggest that intravitreally administered erythropoietin (EPO) is both neuroprotective and safe. In a small pilot series, we intended to assess the feasibility of intravitreal EPO injections in humans. Methods: Three patients with acute vascular occlusion of the posterior pole received a single intravitreal EPO injection of 2000 U. Immediately before the injection and over the ensuing 3 months, these patients were closely monitored by measuring visual acuity, visual fields, intraocular pressure, the electroretinogram, the haematocrit and serum EPO levels. Results: Over the observational period, most parameters remained unchanged except for a short-term rise of serum EPO levels, which, however, did not exceeded normal serum levels. No injection-related toxicity was observed. Conclusion: Based on this limited set of data, a single EPO injection of 2000 U, a dose adapted from previous in vivo studies, is feasible and seems to induce no obvious damage. Hence, further investigations of this therapeutic approach appear justified.