AAO 2025: A study of retinal vasculitis events with intravitreal agents

Jay Chhablani, MD, a retina specialist from the University of Pittsburgh and vice chair for clinical trials at UPMC Vision Institute, presented a comprehensive study analyzing the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database focusing on retinal vasculitis associated adverse events.

The research examined intravitreal agents, including anti-VEGF and complement inhibitors, using data from 2010 to 2025. The study revealed a notable increase in retinal vasculitis reports in 2020, primarily attributed to Beovu. Another significant spike occurred with Syfovre, though these reports subsequently declined.

Chhablani highlighted several key observations from the study. The overall reporting of events increased after 2020, which he believed was due to heightened awareness and more careful monitoring following the Beovu incidents. The research demonstrated that side effects were associated with both anti-VEGF and complement inhibitors.

The study emphasized the importance of the FAERS database, which allowed for bias-free reporting of adverse events. However, Chhablani also acknowledged significant limitations, including the lack of comprehensive verification and the potential that reported cases represented only a fraction of actual events.

Regarding specific drugs, the research noted that Beovu was discontinued due to side effects. With Syfovre, the pharmaceutical company conducted extensive investigations, including changing the needle design. By October 2024, no further retinal vasculitis cases were reported for Syfovre.

Chhablani stressed the database's value for establishing evidence and comparing adverse events across different conditions. He encouraged retina specialists to utilize this reporting system actively, while remaining aware of its limitations.

He concluded by expressing personal confidence in using complement inhibitors, noting he had not observed side effects in his own patients. He underscored the importance of continued vigilance and reporting in understanding potential medical risks associated with intravitreal treatments.