Abstract
Purpose::
To evaluate the anatomic and visual outcomes following combination photodynamic therapy (PDT) and intravitreal Avastin (IVA) for treating choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Methods::
Twenty-seven (27) consecutive eyes with active CNV (all lesions) were treated with PDT followed by IVA 7 to 14 days later. Fluorescein angiography (FA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were performed every 3 weeks for a minimum of 3 months. Re-treatment with PDT or IVA was done based on predetermined recurrence criteria.
Results::
After an average follow-up period of 6 months (3-12 months) Snellen visual acuity improved by an average of 2.2 lines (1-7 lines) in 67% of cases, 15% worsened by 1 line and 18% did not change. 56% of cases did not require any additional treatment, 18% required 2 additional treatments (average of 3 months between treatments), 7.4% and 3.7% required 3 and 4 additional treatments, respectively .
Conclusions::
Combination PDT and IVA treatment resulted in improved vision and decreased frequency of treatment in eyes with CNV secondary to AMD.
Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • photodynamic therapy • growth factors/growth factor receptors