Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab for corneal neovascularization.

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy of combined photodynamic therapy with verteporfin and subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab for the treatment of patients with corneal neovascularization.

METHODS

Twelve eyes of 12 patients with stable corneal neovascularization who were refractory to conventional treatment were treated with photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (6 mg/m) and subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (2.5 mg/0.1 mL). Anterior segment photography was performed before and after treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity, cumulative length of corneal blood vessels, and area of corneal neovascularization were measured.

RESULTS

From 1 week to 1 month after treatment, all eyes showed a notable decrease in corneal neovascularization and evidence of vascular thrombosis. At the 6-month and 1-year follow-ups, complete vascular occlusion was achieved in 8 eyes (66.7%) and partial occlusion was achieved in 3 eyes (25.0%). One eye (8.3%) showed revascularization after temporary occlusion. No ocular complications or systemic events developed.

CONCLUSIONS

Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab seems to be effective for the treatment of corneal neovascularization.