[Current treatments for corneal neovascularization].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vascular Biology

Context:

• Corneal neovascularization (CNV) involves blood vessel growth into the normally avascular corneal stroma.
• While CNV's pathology is understood, effective and safe treatments remain limited.

Purpose:

• To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for corneal neovascularization.
• To evaluate the efficacy of pharmacological, laser, and surgical interventions based on recent studies.

Summary:

• Pharmacological options include topical or subconjunctival bevacizumab, a cost-effective anti-angiogenic therapy.
• Novel intracellular anti-angiogenic molecules (siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides) show promise.
• Laser therapies (photocoagulation, PDT) and fine needle diathermy are options for stabilized CNV.
• Ocular surface reconstruction (amniotic membrane, stem cell transplant) is crucial for CNV secondary to limbal deficiency.

Impact:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of treatment modalities for corneal neovascularization.
• Highlights the potential of novel anti-angiogenic agents and reconstructive surgeries.
• Informs clinical practice by evaluating evidence for various therapeutic approaches.