Photodynamic therapy combined with intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) in treatment of choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration

Coll Antropol. 2007 Jan:31 Suppl 1:71-5.

Abstract

To evaluate photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with intravitreal bevacizumab in minimally classic and occult choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration. 46 eyes of 46 patients (mean age 74.5) included in this prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Median follow-up was 24 weeks (12-36). Verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) was followed by 0.05 mL (1.25 mg) of bevacizumab injected intravitreally within 24 hours and again after 6 weeks. Whole procedure was repeated in 3-month intervals in case of leakage. Visual acuity (VA) improved in majority of patients (baseline VA 1.041 log MAR) by mean increase of 1.45 lines (last follow-up) (p = 0.001). Central foveal thickness (CFT) and total macular volume (TMV) decreased by 53 microm (p = 0.03) and 1.04 mm3 (p < 0.001) respectively. No serious complications were observed. Combined treatment may improve outcome of monotherapy. Significant improvement in VA, CFT and TMA was noted in majority of patients and maintained during follow-up.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / administration & dosage*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / administration & dosage*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Bevacizumab
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / drug therapy*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / etiology
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Injections
  • Macular Degeneration / complications*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Photochemotherapy*
  • Photosensitizing Agents / therapeutic use
  • Porphyrins / therapeutic use
  • Verteporfin
  • Vitreous Body

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
  • Photosensitizing Agents
  • Porphyrins
  • Verteporfin
  • Bevacizumab