Photodynamic Therapy with Verteporfin for Anterior Segment Neovascularization in Neovascualr Galucoma

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin for iris and angle neovascularization in eyes with neovascular glaucoma. METHODS: We treat a patient who had neovascular glaucoma with iris and angle neovacularization and showed reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) and the obliteration of neovascularization after PDT. PDT was performed following the treatment parameters used in age-related macular degeneration. The laser was directed at the anterior chamber angle and iris surface using a Goldmann three-mirror contact lens. Follow-up examination was performed 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 8 weeks after PDT, and included visual acuity, IOP, and iris fluorescein angiography (7 weeks after PDT). RESULTS: Two months after PDT, we observed a reduction of IOP and the improvement of iris fluorescein leakage. IOP diminished considerably after 1 week, and showed subsequent tendency toward stabilization without additional antiglaucoma medicine. CONCLUSIONS: Photodynamic therapy can be used safely and effectively in the early phase of neovascular glaucoma to achieve the obliteration of iris and angle neovascularization and induce IOP reduction.