Combined Therapy with Verteporfin and Ranibizumab for Corneal Neovascularization

Abstract

 

Purpose

 

<br /> To describe the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using verteporfin (Visudyne) and subconjunctival Ranibizumab (Lucentis) on corneal neovascularization (CNV) in nine patients.

 

Methods

 

<br /> Nine patients with corneal neovascularization were treated with a nonthermal laser light at 689 nm delivered 15 min after an intravenous infusion of verteporfin and subconjunctival Ranibizumab 1.0mg (1.0 mg/0.10 mL) administration at the same time. Postoperative outcome of neovascularization was followed clinically (inflammation, intraocular pressure, and visual acuity) and photographically [color photographs and corneal fluorescein and indocyanine green (ICG) angiography] for a minimum of 6 months.

 

Results

 

<br /> Successful photothrombosis of corneal neovascularization was obtained immediately after treatment in all patients, and regression was verified by corneal fluorescein and ICG angiography. In all cases, complete regression of new vessels was observed after 6 weeks. No relevant side effects were observed in our cases.

 

Conclusions

 

<br /> <br /> Combined administration of PDT with Verteporfin and subconjunctival Ranibizumab is an effective and safe procedure for patients with corneal neovascularization.