Photodynamic therapy for choroidal hemangioma. Long-term results

Aim. Evaluation of functional and anatomical long-term results of patients with symptomatic choroidal hemangioma treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT). Patients and methods. All 8 patients suffered from progressive loss of vision caused by exudation into the macular area. PDT with a verteporfin dose of 6 mg/m(2) body surface area and a light dose of 100 J/cm(2) at 692 nm was carried out. Two to four treatments were applied at 6 week intervals using a single laser spot. Standardized evaluation was used before and at 6-week intervals after each treatment and at 3,6 and 12 months. In the further follow-up control intervals were extended up to 1 year in the case of stable anatomical and functional results. Results. All patients showed complete regression of the tumor. The tumor height was reduced from an average of 3.64 mm to undetectable. One patient showed a stable visual acuity, seven patients a significant increase. Central scotometry showed withdrawal of scotomas from the macula. No patient showed any sign of recurrence during the follow-up of up to 60 months. Conclusion. The long-term results of patients with active choroidal hemangioma demonstrate that PDT is a most effective and safe-treatment option. Complete tumor regression is combined with good functional recovery.