Intravitreal Bevacizumab (Avastin) for Choroidal Neovascularization in Angioid Streaks: A Case Series

Background: Intravitreal (IV) bevacizumab (Avastin (R), Roche), initially used for the off-label treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), has extended itself to treat various ocular pathologies such as choroidal neovascularization not associated to AMD. Methods: IV bevacizumab 1,25 mg (Avastin) was used in the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in 6 eyes of 5 patients with angioid streaks. All cases had a history of photodynamic treatment (PDT) or laser treatment and all showed progressive worsening despite the use of these therapies. Results: After injection patients were followed up at nearly 2- month intervals. IV Avastin was repeated in case of recurrence. Three eyes were treated combining PDT and IV Avastin. Cases were followed up for 7-14 months. All patients needed more IV injections. Five out of 6 eyes showed an improvement of BCVA and a slight reduction of leakage and size with FA. Conclusion: This small series suggests that IV Avastin might be useful in the treatment of CNV due to AS. Copyright (C) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel