DRCR.net Protocol U: Steroids for Persistent DME

In this interview from AAO 2017, Dr. Jason Hsu discusses the DRCR.net Protocol U study with lead investigator Dr. Raj K. Maturi. This study was initiated to determine if patients with DME who have persistent vision loss and edema following 6 months to 1 year of monthly anti-VEGF treatment could benefit from adjunctive steroids. Subjects were randomized to receive 1 or more Ozurdex dexamethasone implant, or sham intravitreal steroids, both in combination with continued ranibizumab injections. At 6 months, visual acuity was similar between groups, however, a significantly higher proportion of steroid eyes showed flat retinas on OCT compared with control eyes. Dr. Maturi also notes that a subgroup of pseudophakic eyes appeared to respond better to treatment, suggesting steroids may benefit certain patients.

Relevant Financial Disclosures: Dr. Maturi receives grant support from Allergan, Inc. and Genentech.