Intravitreal Steroids

This book explains how to use intravitreal steroids optimally in the management of patients with intraocular inflammation (uveitis) and macular edema. The rationale for this treatment approach is first explained by examining the pathophysiology of these disease entities, with particular attention to the major role of inflammatory processes. Devices for the delivery of steroids to the eye are discussed, and guidance provided on the role of imaging studies before, during, and after steroid therapy. The value of different steroidal approaches is then considered in detail. Other topics addressed include the use of steroids as a surgical adjunct and within a combination strategy. Uveitis and macular edema are common sight-threatening diseases or complications of diabetes and retinal vein occlusion for which no adequate treatment was available until recently. Both trainees and practitioners will find Intravitreal Steroids to be an invaluable aid in combating these blinding diseases.

Albert J. Augustin, MD, is Professor of Ophthalmology and Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at Klinikum Karlsruhe, Karlsruhe, Germany. Prior to joining Klinikum Karlsruhe in 2001, he was Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Mainz, where his roles included Head of the Retina Section and Head of the Laboratory for Pathophysiology of the Eye. In 2010, Dr. Augustin received an Achievement Award from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. His main areas of research include the pathobiochemistry and pathophysiology of oxidative damage to the eye, the biochemistry of tear fluid, the immunology of experimental lens-induced and autoimmune uveitis, and the immunology of Graefe's disease. Dr. Augustin has published 160 original papers as author or co-author and is the author of previous Springer books, including Augenheilkunde (now in its third edition), as well as Nutrition and the Eye (Karger, 2004).