Posted by: Monmouth Retina in Retina

New FDA-Approved Treatment for Rare Retinal Condition

For the first time, patients living with Macular Telangiectasia Type 2 (MacTel) have access to an
FDA-approved treatment designed to slow the progression of this rare retinal disease.
Rupan Trikha, M.D., a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon at Monmouth Retina, an EyeCare
Partners practice, recently performed the first Encelto® implant in New Jersey. The procedure
represents an important milestone for patients diagnosed with MacTel Type 2, a condition that
gradually affects the central portion of the retina and can lead to progressive central vision loss.

Understanding MacTel Type 2

MacTel Type 2 affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for detailed, central vision.
Over time, patients may notice blurriness, distortion or difficulty reading and recognizing faces.
The disease is often identified in midlife and can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages.
Until now, there were no approved treatments aimed at slowing the underlying degeneration.
Care typically focused on managing complications rather than addressing the progression of the
condition itself.

How the Treatment Works

Encelto is a small implant placed in the eye during a surgical procedure. It contains living retinal
pigment epithelial (RPE) cells that continuously release ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), a
naturally occurring protein that supports retinal cell health. Clinical studies have shown the
therapy can slow the progression of MacTel Type 2.
Unlike treatments that require frequent injections, the implant is designed to provide sustained
delivery of therapy over time.

A Full-Circle Moment in Retinal Care

For Dr. Trikha, the milestone is especially meaningful. During his fellowship in 2007, he
participated in the original clinical trial studying this technology. Nearly two decades later, he is
now able to offer the FDA-approved treatment to patients in his own community.
For individuals living with MacTel Type 2, the availability of this therapy represents a new option
in a condition that previously had none.