Management of Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization: Focus on Anti-VEGF Therapy

Drugs. 2016 Jul;76(11):1119-33. doi: 10.1007/s40265-016-0605-0.

Abstract

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) is the second most common form of CNV after age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is a sight-threatening complication of pathologic myopia (PM) and often affects patients in their working years causing significant impact on quality of life. Previous therapies such as photodynamic therapy with verteporfin have shown limited success. Due to the similarities in pathogenesis of mCNV and AMD CNV, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy (anti-VEGF), which has so far been the mainstay of treatment for AMD CNV, has been shown to be effective in the treatment of mCNV and has become the first-line treatment of choice. This article aims to examine briefly the epidemiology and pathophysiology of mCNV, as well as review the evidence for efficacy, safety, and clinical use of anti-VEGF treatment for mCNV.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Choroid / physiology
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / complications
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / drug therapy*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / epidemiology
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods*
  • Myopia / complications
  • Myopia / drug therapy*
  • Myopia / epidemiology
  • Myopia / physiopathology
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / antagonists & inhibitors*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A