Longitudinal renal function changes during real-world anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for diabetic macular edema in Japan

• DOI: 10.1007/s10384-025-01170-x
• Publication Date: 2025-02-28T04:46:54Z
• Authors: Ayumi Usui-Ouchi; Shuta Kishishita; Yoshihito Sakanishi; Keitaro Mashimo; Kazunori Tamaki; Moe Matsuzawa; Meiko Kimura; Riyu Ikari; Shuu Morita; Ishin Ninomiya; Toshiro Sakuma; Nobuyuki Ebihara; Shintaro Nakao

Abstract

Purpose This retrospective observational study aimed to investigate the longitudinal changes in renal function and central macular thickness (CMT) and their impact on visual outcomes during anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy for diabetic macular edema (DME).

Study design This study employed a retrospective observational design and analyzed data from treatment-naive patients with DME (62 cases, 100 eyes) receiving anti-VEGF therapy for 36 months. Baseline and follow-up assessments were conducted at 12, 24, and 36 months.

Methods Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), CMT, number of anti-VEGF injections, HbA1c, serum creatinine (Cre), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), urinary protein levels, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage were measured at each time point.

Results The study population had a mean age of 60.7 ± 12.2 years, with 41 men and 21 women. Over the 36-month period, the mean number of anti-VEGF injections per eye was 5.3 ± 3.3. Maximum CMT significantly decreased at each time point, and final BCVA showed significant improvement (logMAR: − 0.07). HbA1c levels remained stable, BUN and Cre levels increased, and eGFR decreased significantly over time. CKD stage 3+ at 36 months significantly resulted in worse CMT.

Conclusion This retrospective observational study provides valuable insights into the longitudinal changes in renal function and CMT during anti-VEGF therapy for DME. Our findings emphasize the importance of monitoring renal function. This study contributes to our understanding of the complex relationship between renal function, DME, and anti-VEGF therapy, thereby facilitating improved management and outcomes in patients with DME.