ABSTRACT
AIM: Evaluation of functional and anatomical long-term results of patients with symptomatic choroidal hemangioma treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT). PATIENTS AND METHODS: All 8 patients suffered from progressive loss of vision caused by exudation into the macular area. PDT with a verteporfin dose of 6 mg/m(2) body surface area and a light dose of 100 J/cm(2) at 692 nm was carried out. Two to four treatments were applied at 6 week intervals using a single laser spot. Standardized evaluation was used before and at 6-week intervals after each treatment and at 3, 6 and 12 months. In the further follow-up control intervals were extended up to 1 year in the case of stable anatomical and functional results. RESULTS: All patients showed complete regression of the tumor. The tumor height was reduced from an average of 3.64 mm to undetectable. One patient showed a stable visual acuity, seven patients a significant increase. Central scotometry showed withdrawal of scotomas from the macula. No patient showed any sign of recurrence during the follow-up of up to 60 months. CONCLUSION: The long-term results of patients with active choroidal hemangioma demonstrate that PDT is a most effective and safe treatment option. Complete tumor regression is combined with good functional recovery.
