Worsening of renal function and uncontrolled hypertension from intravitreal bevacizumab injections

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors are used in the treatment of various cancers as well as diabetic retinopathy. The systemic use of these drugs has been associated with adverse effects such as worsening hypertension, proteinuria, and renal function. There have been some reported cases of worsening hypertension, thrombotic microangiopathy, or glomerular disease after intravitreal injections of bevacizumab, aflibercept, and ranibizumab. We present a case of a patient who was taking intravitreal bevacizumab injections for diabetic retinopathy and was hospitalized with worsening renal function, high blood pressure, and nephrotic-range proteinuria in the setting of tight glycemic control.