Spontaneous Epiretinal Membrane Resolution and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers: Case Observation, Literature Review and Perspectives

Overview

Journal Biomedicines

Specialty Biomedical Engineering

Date 2023 Jul 29

PMID 37509613

Authors

Filippo Confalonieri

Xhevat Lumi

Goran Petrovski

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Introduction: Epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a relatively common condition affecting the macula. When symptoms become apparent and compromise a patient's quality of vision, the only therapeutic approach available today is surgery with a vitrectomy and peeling of the ERM. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) reduce the effect of angiotensin II, limit the amount of fibrosis, and demonstrate consequences on fibrinogenesis in the human body. Case Description and Materials and Methods: A rare case of spontaneous ERM resolution with concomitant administration of ARB is reported. The patient was set on ARB treatment for migraines and arterial hypertension, and a posterior vitreous detachment was already present at the first diagnosis of ERM. The scientific literature addressing the systemic relationship between ARB, ACE-Is, and fibrosis in the past 25 years was searched in the PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE databases.

Results: In total, 38 and 16 original articles have been selected for ARBs and ACE-Is, respectively, in regard to fibrosis modulation.

Conclusion: ARBs and ACE-Is might have antifibrotic activity on ERM formation and resolution. Further clinical studies are necessary to explore this phenomenon.

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