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 <= 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. Com- pared 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. Copyright (c) 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.