Focal photodynamic therapy for idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the focal treatment with photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (IPCV). Methods Retrospective study of 8 eyes of 6 patients with visual loss and diagnosed of IPCV. Diagnosis was confirmed with indocyanine green (ICG) angiography. We treated with PDT only the “hot spots” or the maximum hyperfluorescence focal area. In the first month, funduscopic and visual acuity examination using ETDRS optotype were performed. In the third month all the examinations including a fluorescein and ICG angiography were repeated. Afterwards, controls had taken place every 6 months. Results Five women and one men were included in the study. Its age was between 64 and 85 years. Mean follow‐up was 18.1 months (range: 6‐35 months). Mean initial and final visual acuity were 20/100 and 20/80 respectively. We observed a visual acuity improvement in 6 eyes and a visual stability in 2 eyes. Five eyes needed only one treatment, 2 eyes two PDT sessions and only one eye required 5 PDT sessions. Conclusion In our study, focal photodynamic therapy of “hot spots” has shown to be an effective, non invasive and secure treatment for idiopathic polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.