A new model of experimental choroidal neovascularization in the rat

Choroidal neovascularization in rat eyes was induced by krypton laser photocoagulation. Lesions were studied weekly by ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography. Morphologic correlation was provided by serial sectioning of lesions for light and transmission electron microscopy. In addition, vascular casts were prepared for scanning electron microscopy. Choroidal neovascularization occurred in 25 (60%) of 42 lesions, as evidenced by growth of capillaries through breaks in Bruch's membrane. In addition, 24 (28%) of 86 lesions studied by fluorescein angiography demonstrated leakage. This study provides the most complete angiographic, histologic, and ultrastructural documentation of experimental choroidal neovascularization in the rat. This model may be useful for in vivo studies of choroidal angiogenesis and its modulation via drug therapy.