Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab for corneal neovascularization

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of combined photodynamic therapy with verteporfin and subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab for the treatment of patients with corneal neovascularization.

Methods: Twelve eyes of 12 patients with stable corneal neovascularization who were refractory to conventional treatment were treated with photodynamic therapy with verteporfin (6 mg/m) and subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (2.5 mg/0.1 mL). Anterior segment photography was performed before and after treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity, cumulative length of corneal blood vessels, and area of corneal neovascularization were measured.

Results: From 1 week to 1 month after treatment, all eyes showed a notable decrease in corneal neovascularization and evidence of vascular thrombosis. At the 6-month and 1-year follow-ups, complete vascular occlusion was achieved in 8 eyes (66.7%) and partial occlusion was achieved in 3 eyes (25.0%). One eye (8.3%) showed revascularization after temporary occlusion. No ocular complications or systemic events developed.

Conclusions: Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin combined with subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab seems to be effective for the treatment of corneal neovascularization.