Photodynamic therapy using verteporfin for choroidal neovascularization associated with angioid streaks--long-term effects.

AIM

To investigate the safety and efficacy of photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (PDT) in patients with choroidal neovascularization associated with angioid streaks (CNVAS).

METHODS

A nonrandomized, prospective clinical investigation of 12 patients with CNVAS was performed. PDT was based on the criteria concerning the treatment of age-related macular degeneration.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 41.75 months (range 24-60). The mean number of (re)treatments was 3.3 (range 2-7). Visual acuity improved by at least 1 line in 42%, was stable within +/-2 lines in 33%, decreased by at least 1 line in 58% and by >3 lines in 25% of the patients. The mean visual acuity was 0.30 (range 0.2-0.5) prior to and 0.17 (range 0.03-0.6) after the final PDT. The mean visual acuity of the contralateral eye was 0.1. 75% of contralateral eyes and 25% of the treated eyes had a final visual acuity of < or =0.1 (20/200). At the final follow-up, a significant enlargement of the lesion size was noted in 92% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Using the current (re)treatment criteria, PDT does not appear to limit the growth of CNVAS. Compared to the aggressive natural course and to the limited treatment options, PDT may at least in part help to stabilize macular function over a limited period of time.