Photodynamic therapy for circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) as a new treatment for circumscribed choroidal haemangioma (CCH). Methods: Eight patients with CCH were treated with PDT using a protocol similar to that used in the standard treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration. Results: Visual acuity improved in six of eight eyes, remained unchanged in one eye and deteriorated in one eye after 3-15 months (median 7 months) follow-up. Pre-treatment metamorphopsia disappeared in all but two cases. The thickness of the CCH measured with standardized echography showed marked regression within 1 month after PDT. In six eyes there was no remaining protrusion after PDT and one lesion was barely detectable. One patient experienced a transient choroidal effusion and perifoveal haemorrhage. Conclusion: Photodynamic therapy is a promising new treatment for CCH as it restores visual function in most cases without causing apparent ocular or systemic side-effects.