Intravitreal Anakinra Inhibits Choroidal Neovascular Membrane Growth in a Rat Model

Purpose: To determine the effect of intravitreal anakinra on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in an animal model.Methods: Laser photocoagulation used to rupture Bruch’s membrane; animals then assigned to groups based on varying frequency of intravitreal anakinra injections. At day 30, digital angiography was used to measure the CNV area. Result: Intravitreal anakinra dose-dependently inhibited CNV growth. Injections given one time resulted in a 26% reduction in CNV; in the once weekly group, a 41% reduction was seen; in the twice-weekly group, a 62% reduction was seen (all p < .001). Conclusion: Suppressing IL-1 function may provide another therapeutic avenue in exudative AMD.