Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, diagnosis and management.
G Coppens1, L Spielberg, A Leys
1Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium. greetcoppens@hotmail.com
Bulletin De La Societe Belge D'Ophtalmologie
|May 13, 2011
Summary
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) is a condition often diagnosed in Asian and African descent patients. Indocyanine green angiography is crucial for diagnosing PCV, with treatments like photodynamic therapy and anti-VEGF therapy managing active disease.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Imaging
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) was first identified in 1985.
- Initially considered rare, PCV is now frequently diagnosed in patients of African and Asian descent.
- In Caucasians, PCV accounts for 10% of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) cases and up to 85% of patients with hemorrhagic or exudative retinal pigment epithelial detachment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV).
- To emphasize the importance of indocyanine green angiography in confirming PCV diagnosis.
- To outline current therapeutic options for active PCV impacting the macula.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations suggestive of PCV.
- Utilization of indocyanine green angiography for definitive diagnosis.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes for photodynamic therapy and anti-VEGF agents.
Main Results:
- PCV diagnosis requires specialized imaging, primarily indocyanine green angiography, despite suggestive clinical signs.
- Photodynamic therapy with Verteporfin is effective in closing PCV complexes.
- Anti-VEGF treatments are beneficial in reducing associated macular edema.
Conclusions:
- PCV is a significant condition, particularly in specific ethnic groups and in cases of exudative AMD.
- Accurate diagnosis via indocyanine green angiography is essential for appropriate management.
- Multimodal treatment approaches, including photodynamic therapy and anti-VEGF, are vital for managing active PCV and preserving vision.
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