Eye injections of anti-VEGF and steroid medications are the standard treatment approach for center-involving CSME (CSME located near the center-most area in the back of the eye). Vascular endothelial growth factor or VEGF is a protein that stimulates the formation of blood vessels. In cases of CSME, VEGF is over-stimulated and leads to the breakdown of the barrier between the retina and the blood, causing visual loss.1 Anti-VEGF injections aim to prevent this breakdown and can achieve good results. Repeated, ongoing eye injections are required, however.
1. Aiello LP, Avery RL, Arrigg PG, et al. Vascular endothelial growth factor in ocular fluid of patients with diabetic retinopathy and other retinal disorders. N Engl J Med. 1994;311(22):1480-7.