Factors associated with outcomes of intravitreal triamcinolone injection among pseudophakic cystoid macular edema patients at KCMC from 2017 to 2023
Keywords:
factors, intravitreal corticosteroid injection, intravitreal triamcinolone injection, macular edema, pseudophakic cystoid macular edema, topical corticosteroidsAbstract
Background: Pseudophakic cystoid macular oedema (PCME), also known as Irvine–Gass syndrome, is a postoperative complication of cataract surgery characterized by cystic retinal changes and potential vision loss. Intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) is used as a treatment due to its potent anti-inflammatory effects, although standardized protocols are lacking. Aim: To evaluate the outcomes and factors associated with IVTA injections among PCME patients treated at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) between January 2017 and December 2023. Methodology: A retrospective cohort study was conducted involving PCME patients treated with a single 4 mg IVTA injection. Data on visual acuity (VA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were collected at baseline, and at one, three-, and six-month post-treatment. VA was assessed using the Snellen chart and converted to logMAR for analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to evaluate treatment outcomes and identify associated factors. Results: A total of 90 eyes from 86 patients were included. Mean VA improved from 1.13 logMAR at baseline to 0.80 logMAR at six months. Mean CMT decreased from 498.0 µm to 339.7 µm over the same period. Better baseline VA was significantly associated with visual improvement, while younger age and single injection were predictors of favorable anatomical outcomes.
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