Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Abstract

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is a recently recognized clinical entity. Although PCV is thought to be a subtype of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the clinical characteristics of PCV are distinct from those of traditionally defined AMD. In Japan, PCV is a major component of AMD and accurate diagnosis of PCV is important to appropriate patient management. The natural course, clinical presentations, pathology and pathogenesis, diagnosis, and differential diagnosis of PCV were reviewed. Diagnostic criteria for PCV are also provided.