Treating peripapillary choroidal neovascular membranes: a review of the evidence

Peripapillary choroidal neovascular membranes (PCNM) are defined as a collection of new choroidal blood vessels, any portion of which lies within one disc diameter of the nerve head. There are two types of PCNM, and correct pre-interventional identification of growth site has been shown to stratify the chance of visual improvement following therapy. Clinical manifestations occur only where the membrane extends over the macula, if the vessels haemorrhage into the subretinal space or fluid exudation occurs within the macula. This review provides an update and overview on the diverse range of current treatment studies and strategies being used in present clinical ophthalmic practice.