OCT Biomarkers Predict Anti-VEGF Failure in DME

Further studies are needed to bolster certainty, but confirmation could save injections in insufficient responders.

By: Sarah Fackler, managing editor, Optometric Management

Retinal Physician June 12, 2025 Vol 22, Issue June 2025

5 Key Takeaways

1

OCT biomarkers can predict anti-VEGF treatment failure in diabetic macular edema (DME) patients, aiding in timely therapy adjustments.
2

In a study of 275 eyes, 76% required a switch from anti-VEGF to dexamethasone implants due to inadequate response.
3

Key OCT biomarkers indicating treatment failure include central retinal thickness, best-corrected visual acuity, and specific retinal abnormalities.
4

The presence of two or more specific OCT markers significantly increases the odds of anti-VEGF treatment failure.
5

Early identification of poor responders to anti-VEGF therapy could justify earlier switches to steroid treatments for better outcomes.

managing editor

Managing Editor

Affiliations: Optometric Management

Bio: Sarah Fackler serves as managing editor at Optometric Management. In this role, she writes and edits coverage for the publication, including reporting on clinical updates in optometry such as new medications for dry eye disease and presbyopia presented at major meetings including SECO.

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Retinal Physician

OCT Biomarkers Predict Anti-VEGF Failure in DME

5 Key Takeaways

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