Photodynamic therapy: a new approach to the treatment of choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration

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Abstract
Visual loss as a result of choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration continues to be a major challenge for all ophthalmologists. Photodynamic therapy represents an exciting and novel technique that uses light-activated drugs and nonthermal light to achieve the selective destruction of choroidal neovascularization with minimal effects on the surrounding normal tissues. In Phase I-II clinical trials of photodynamic therapy with both benzoporphyrin derivative and tin ethyl etiopurpurin, closure of choroidal neovascularization was seen 24 hours after the treatment. However, recurrence of choroidal neovascularization can occur 2 to 3 months after treatment. Double-blind, multicenter, randomized Phase III clinical trials with benzoporphyrin derivative and tin ethyl etiopurpurin are currently underway.

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