Dr. Manisha Kumari

Dr.Deepak Marianus Lakra

Abstract

DESIGN – Retrospective hospital based study. PURPOSE – To determine reasons for non-compliance to intravitreal anti VEGF therapy in patients of a tertiary care center. METHODS – A retrospective study was done on patients attending a tertiary care center who were started on intravitreal anti VEGF between May 2022 & October 2022. Data regarding type & number of injection, its indication, follow up, missed visits & reason for discontinuation of treatment (>180 days) was obtained from hospital records. RESULT – 76 patients were recruited in the study (29 males & 47 females). Mean age – 51 years. 40 had diabetic macular edema, 24 had CRVO, 12 had ARMD. 58% (n = 44) had loss to follow up. The most common reason for refusing further T/t was non affordability (43%, n = 19) followed by dissatisfaction (20%, n = 9). Other reasons were travel inconvenience, co morbidity, negligence, fear & discomfort. CONCLUSION – Non affordability and dissatisfaction were leading causes for discontinuation.