The AflibeRcept use in rEal life study for the treatment of diabetiC macular oedema In the French overseas territories: A 12 months follow-up Study - The RECIF Study

Purpose The incidence and severity of diabetes is particularly high in the French overseas territories (FOT). The RECIF study evaluated real life management of diabetic macular oedema (DME) treated by aflibercept in FOT. Methods A prospective, noncomparative, multicentric, non-interventional, study that evaluated functional and anatomical results of patients treated by aflibercept. Twelve retina specialists working in French Polynesia, La Reunion, Guadeloupe and Martinique participated in the study. Results 67 eyes of 57 patients were followed for 12 months. Average VA gain was 7.8 ETDRS letters. 29.9% of eyes gained at least 15 letters, 6% lost 15 letters or more. 67.2% of eyes achieved visual acuity of 70 letters or better. Average central retinal thickness decrease was 115.3 µm. The mean number of injections during the 1st year of treatment was 4.9. 69% of eyes had a loading dose of at least three-monthly injections. 3 eyes were switched to steroid injections during the follow-up for lack of efficacy. Conclusion This study confirmed the efficacy of intravitreal treatment of DME by aflibercept, in the French overseas territories. This evaluation of real-life management of DME underlines the importance of improvement of patient education and collaboration with referring physicians.