Abstract
Purpose :
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is often complicated by macular changes impacting central vision. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV), while rare in RP, poses a significant threat to central vision. This study aims to elucidate the clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of CNV treatment in RP patients.
Methods :
We conducted a retrospective review of RP patients who developed CNV from January 2014 to January 2021 at three tertiary centers in Korea. CNV diagnosis was based on spectral domain optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography findings. Patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination and were treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, following either a fixed or pro-re-nata regimen. Treatment outcomes were evaluated in terms of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and visual field changes, using Goldmann perimetry.
Results :
Among the 2,730 RP patients, seven patients were included. The prevalence of CNV in RP was 0.26% (7/2,730). The median age at CNV onset was 59 years (range: 52-75). At CNV onset, median BCVA was 0.52 logMAR, and median CMT was 247 μm. CNV was predominantly type 1, with subfoveal or juxtafoveal location. Anti-VEGF treatment led to anatomical stabilization in all patients, with a median follow-up of 64 months. Among five patients with follow-up period longer than 3 years, there were no signs of disease progression and further constriction of visual field.
Conclusions :
CNV is a rare complication in RP patients, and it tends to occur at a younger age and show more favorable response to anti-VEGF compared to typical age-related macular degeneration. Our findings indicate that anti-VEGF therapy effectively stabilizes CNV in RP without exacerbating peripheral vision loss, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic approach for this rare complication. Further investigation with larger cohorts and extended follow-up is needed to deepen our understanding of CNV in RP and refine treatment strategies.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.