Accidental Nd:YAG laser-induced choroidal neovascularization

Background: There are few reports in the literature to describe the natural history of an occupational Nd:YAG laser-induced retinal injury. Methods: The chronological response to a Nd:YAG laseri-nduced injury was studied in a 48-year-old male using the techniques of color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography. When he developed choroidal neovascularization his response to photodynamic therapy with verteporfin was recorded. Results: The patient initially developed a macular hole, which spontaneously closed. Three months after the injury a choroidal neovascular membrane developed. This stabilized after the use of photodynamic therapy. Conclusions: Surgical closure of Nd:YAG induced macular holes should be delayed to allow spontaneous closure. Photodynamic therapy was successful in treating choroidal neovascularization in this case.