Treatment of corneal transplant rejection in humans with anti-interferon-γ antibodies

PURPOSE: To determine efficacy of anti-human interferon-γ F(ab′)2 (Fabs) in treating corneal transplant rejection after penetrating keratoplasty. DESIGN: Interventional case series. METHODS: Anti-interferon-γ Fabs derived from goat antihuman interferon-γ antibodies were used for instillations in 13 patients (13 eyes) who experienced corneal transplant rejection after penetrating keratoplasty. Fabs were administered in one or three treatment course(s) as eyedrops given three times daily for 7 to 10 days. RESULTS: In 10 patients, 2 to 3 days after start of one treatment course, transplant transparency improved, and edema decreased. At the end of week 1, the transplant became almost fully transparent, and eye inflammation disappeared. Visual acuity increased from 0.2 to 0.3. In the other three patients, three treatment courses were needed for comparable improvement. Improvement was maintained through follow-up—an average of 7 months. CONCLUSION: Antihuman interferon-γ Fabs may be safe and effective in halting corneal transplant rejection after penetrating keratoplasty.