Clinical Scorecard: Navigating Office Dynamics in the Management of Geographic Atrophy

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Shift to early assessment and intervention for GA patients.
• Utilization of fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography for monitoring.
• Two FDA-approved medications for GA available since 2023.
• Emphasis on patient communication and setting clear expectations.
• Safety considerations include risks of retinal vasculitis and inflammation.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Prioritize early detection of GA using advanced imaging modalities.

Management

• Initiate treatment as soon as patients become eligible, starting with the worse-seeing eye.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Regularly review imaging with patients to track disease progression.

Risks

• Discuss potential risks including retinal vasculitis, inflammation, choroidal neovascularization, and endophthalmitis.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Patients with Geographic Atrophy, particularly those with monocular vision or history of inflammation.

Avacincaptad pegol (Izervay) is preferred for patients at risk of retinal vasculitis.

Clinical Best Practices

• Avoid simultaneous bilateral injections to mitigate risks.
• Engage in transparent communication about treatment expectations and disease progression.

References

• Mona Camacci, MD, MS - Retina Consultants of South Carolina