Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin for subfoveal choroidal neovascularization in best disease

Am J Ophthalmol. 2003 Dec;136(6):1179-81. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(03)00711-6.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the effects of photodynamic therapy using verteporfin for the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in Best vitelliform macular dystrophy.

Design: Interventional case report.

Methods: A 43-year-old patient with confirmed Best vitelliform macular dystrophy complicated with subfoveal CNV received a single photodynamic therapy session with verteporfin. The patient was prospectively followed with fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography.

Results: A regression of the neovascular lesion and resolution of the exudative manifestations was observed 3 weeks after treatment; at that time, visual acuity had improved from 20/60 to 20/25. Optical coherence tomography disclosed restoration of normal macular architecture due to fluid resolution and lesion contraction. Up to 2 years from this single treatment, no further change was observed.

Conclusions: Regression of CNV and resolution of subretinal hemorrhage as well as exudative manifestations occurred after photodynamic therapy with verteporfin. Verteporfin therapy may be a viable treatment for subfoveal neovascular lesions in Best vitelliform macular dystrophy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / diagnosis
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / drug therapy*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / etiology
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Fovea Centralis
  • Humans
  • Macular Degeneration / complications*
  • Male
  • Photochemotherapy*
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Porphyrins / therapeutic use*
  • Prospective Studies
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence
  • Verteporfin

Substances

  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Porphyrins
  • Verteporfin