Impact of Intravitreal Faricimab on Renal Function in Diabetic Patients

Overview

This study aims to investigate the impact of intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti VEGF) Faricimab on renal function of diabetic patients. Faricimab is a new anti-VEGF drug which inhibits both VEGF-A and Ang-2 and it is used for the treatment of diabetic macular edema and neovascular age related macular degeneration. It is known that previous anti-VEGF agents has systematic absorption and may cause deterioration in renal function of the patients. However, the effect of Faricimab on kidney function has not been investigated yet. Taking into account that Ang-2 has destructive effect on kidneys, the investigation of the effect of its inhibition in diabetic patients who have already renal function deterioration may provide a valuable information in scientific community.

For the purposes of this study, 60 diabetic patients who need intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF for either diabetic macular edema or neovascular age related macular degeneration will be enrolled. 30 patients will consist the study group and they will receive Faricimab and the remaining 30 patients will receive Aflibercept 2 mg. Before the initiation of therapy, laboratory tests including HbA1c, eGFR, plasma creatinine, urine albumin to urine creatinine ratio (ACR) will be ordered to investigate the glycemic control and the renal function of the patients.The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the intraocular pressure (IOP) and the anterior segments will be assessed on each visit. The optical coherence tomography (OCT) will be used for the assessment of centra macular thickness (CMT). The results will be assessed at baseline and then at 6 months and 12 months from the initiation of therapy. The statistical analysis will be performed at the end of study period.