Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab to treat choroidal neovascularization with large submacular hemorrhage secondary to age‐related macular degeneration

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To assess the effects of the intravitreal injection of Bevacizumab (Avastin) to treat choroideal neovascularization (CNV) associated with large submacular hemorrhage (LSH) secondary to age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Prospective interventional case series. Patients presenting occult subfoveal CNV with LSH greater the 50% of the entire lesion were recruited. The protocol required 3 monthly consecutive injections, followed by possible repeat injections on the basis of the morpho‐functional responses related to OCT parameters, angiographic features and visual acuity over a 12‐month follow‐up. Results Eight patients were enrolled in the study and prospectively followed up. Mean visual acuity and mean foveal thickness (FT) at the baseline were 0.72±0.35 (logMAR±SD) and 296±86µm SD, respectively. At three‐month examination, mean visual acuity improved to 0.46±0.28 and mean FT decreased to 240±105µm SD. At 12‐month examination, mean visual acuity was 0.48±0.32, and mean FT 238±50µm. A progressive resolution of macular bleeding was registered in 7 patients. No side‐effect or complication was registered. Conclusion Intravitreal bevacizumab can be considered a valuable treatment for subfoveal CNV with LSH secondary to AMD. A randomized clinical trial designed with a greater number of patients and a control group is needed to confirm our preliminary results.