[Present status of studies on the treatment of choroidal neovascularization by Anecortave acetate]

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a major cause of vision loss in various ocular fundus diseases. The purpose of traditional therapies was to treat established CNV, but they only have limited effects. Drug treatment targeting the pathogenesis of CNV has become a hot research topic recently. Anecortave acetate is an angiostatic steroid which shows distinct mechanism of action in inhibiting neovascularization, making it different from the anti-VEGF agents (Pegaptanib, Ranibizumab and Bevacizumab). As the studies on the mechanism of CNV going more deeply, effective treatment targeting the pathogenesis of CNV will bring hope for these patients.