Effect of intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF drugs on intraocular pressure and biometric parameters of the anterior segment of the eye

Background Understanding the impact of intravitreal injections on anterior chamber parameters and intraocular pressure in patients with different lens types is important for optimizing nAMD therapy [1–3]. Objective To compare changes in intraocular pressure and anterior chamber biometric parameters in patients with their own lens and intraocular lens after multiple injections of an anti-VEGF drug in the treatment of nAMD. Material and methods The study included 60 patients. IOP measurements were performed using an ICare Pro contact tonometer, and anterior chamber parameters were assessed using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). The observation lasted 12 months, and patients received a course of IVI anti-VEGF drug (aflibercept) according to the "treat and extend" scheme. Results In patients with IOL, the IOP level after IVI was statistically lower than in patients with their own lens (by 17.8% after the first injection and by 28.7% after 1 year of observation; p < 0.001). In patients with their own lens, there was a narrowing of the anterior chamber angle and a decrease in its depth after IVI, while in patients with IOL, these changes were statistically insignificant. Conclusion Multiple IVIs of anti-VEGF drugs in patients with their own lens cause statistically significant changes in the anterior chamber parameters and an increase in IOP. In patients with IOL, these changes are less pronounced, which makes lens implantation a potential preventive measure against IOP fluctuations and complications associated with narrowing of the anterior chamber angle. Key words: anti-VEGF drugs; intravitreal injection; intraocular pressure; OCT of the anterior segment of the eye