Comparison of initial treatment between 3-monthly intravitreal aflibercept monotherapy and combined photodynamic therapy with single intravitreal aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Comparative Efficacy of Brolucizumab and Aflibercept in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) represents a distinct subtype of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). PCV is currently managed using intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents such as brolucizumab and aflibercept. This meta-analysis compares the effectiveness of brolucizumab and aflibercept in PCV patients. We systematically searched four electronic databases to identify eligible studies. Data extraction and pooling were performed utilizing the mean difference (MD) or rate ratio (RR) through the generic inverse variance method, with significance determined by a p-value < 0.05 between intervention subgroups. The generic inverse variance analysis method was applied with the employment of the random-effect model when data were heterogeneous. We retrieved 44 studies, 35 were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis compared the efficacy of aflibercept and brolucizumab in patients with nAMD over 3-6 months and 12 months. For best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the MD between aflibercept and brolucizumab were -0.11 versus -0.06 at 3-6 months and -0.11 versus -0.04 at 12 months, with no substantial differences (p = 0.58 and p = 0.08, respectively). Regarding polypoidal regression, RR after aflibercept use was 53% versus 70% for brolucizumab at 3-6 months and 47% versus 61% at 12 months, with no significant differences (p = 0.19 and p = 0.31, respectively). In terms of central retinal thickness (CRT), the MDs for aflibercept versus brolucizumab were -129.03 versus -143.93 at 3-6 months and -129.72 versus -145.32 at 12 months, without significant differences (p = 0.62 for both). For central choroidal thickness (CCT) and central foveal thickness (CFT), no significant differences were found between the two interventions at either time point. However, for central macular thickness, brolucizumab demonstrated superiority over aflibercept at 12 months (MD = -119.29 versus -215.00, p < 0.0001). In conclusion, our meta-analysis comparing aflibercept and brolucizumab in PCV revealed no significant differences in BCVA, polypoidal regression, CRT, CCT, and CFT at 6 or 12 months. Overall, both drugs demonstrated comparable efficacy in managing PCV.

Comparison of One-Year Outcome of Intravitreal Aflibercept with or without Photodynamic Therapy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

Background and Objectives: Our study compared the visual and anatomical outcomes of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) patients receiving intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) with or without photodynamic therapy (PDT) over 12 months. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was performed for 60 eyes from 60 patients with treatment-naïve PCV. Thirty eyes were treated using IVA monotherapy (IVA group), and thirty eyes were treated using a combination of IVA with PDT (IVA/PDT group). The baseline characteristics, treatment outcomes, and retreatment rates were compared between the two groups over a one-year follow-up period. Results: The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was found to have improved significantly in the IVA/PDT group at every 3-month visit. However, no significant BCVA improvement was observed in the IVA group. A significantly lower retreatment rate and higher dry macula rate were found in the IVA/PDT group than that in the IVA group. In the entire population of the study, a better baseline vision and younger age were associated with better final visual outcomes. Retreatment was associated with poor baseline BCVA and IVA monotherapy. Conclusions: The combination of IVA and PDT may offer superior visual improvement and a higher dry macula rate compared to IVA monotherapy in the treatment of PCV patients while requiring fewer retreatments over 12 months.

Efficacy of Brolucizumab in Polyp Regression of Treatment-Naive Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy and Its Effect on 1-Year Treatment Outcome

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of intravitreal brolucizumab in polyp regression of treatment-naive polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) patients and its effect on 1-year treatment outcome.

METHODS

Medical records of 31 treatment-naive PCV patients, who received three monthly intravitreal brolucizumab injections followed by as-needed injections for at least a year, were retrospectively reviewed. Visual and anatomical outcomes were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months. Complete polyp regression rate and percentage change of vascular lesion and polyp area were evaluated after three monthly injections of brolucizumab. The effect of complete polyp regression and the impact of vascular lesion and polyp reduction rate on 1-year treatment outcome were also evaluated.

RESULTS

In terms of visual outcome, best-corrected visual acuity significantly improved after 12-month follow-up (p < 0.001). In terms of anatomical outcome, central macular thickness (CMT) and central choroidal thickness significantly decreased after 12-month follow-up (p < 0.001). Complete polyp regression was observed in 23 patients (74.2%) after three monthly injections. Group with complete polyp regression had a higher rate of achieving dry macula at 3 months (p = 0.026) and fewer number of injections (p < 0.001) compared to the group without complete polyp regression. Higher polyp reduction rate was significantly associated with higher CMT change from baseline at 3 months (p = 0.048) while higher vascular lesion reduction rate was significantly associated with higher CMT change from baseline at 12 months (p = 0.031) and fewer number of injections (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal brolucizumab injection effectively improved visual and anatomical outcomes and achieved significant polyp regression in treatment-naive PCV patients. Complete polyp regression and the reduction rate of vascular lesion size and polyp size after loading injection significantly influence the treatment outcome of PCV patients. However, careful monitoring and preoperative warning is warranted due to occurrence of brolucizumab-related IOI.

Intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor and combined photodynamic therapy for pachychoroid neovasculopathy: long-term treatment outcomes

PURPOSE

To examine the long-term visual outcomes after initial treatment with combined photodynamic therapy (PDT) or aflibercept treat-and-extend (TAE) monotherapy in patients with pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV).

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with PNV, initially treated with PDT combined with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) monotherapy in the TAE protocol and followed up for at least 6 months, were included in the study. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Survival analysis was performed, in which deterioration in logMAR visual acuity by 0.1 or 0.3 is defined as "death." The annual number of treatments was also analyzed. Sub-analysis was performed on 33 patients diagnosed with PNV without polypoidal lesions.

RESULTS

This study included 46 patients (23 in the initial combined PDT group and 23 in the IVA TAE group). Mean age, sex, mean baseline logMAR visual acuity, or duration of observation (3.6 ± 3.2 years vs. 3.1 ± 1.9 years) in both groups were comparable. As for visual outcome, no significant differences were found in survival analysis based on worsening of 0.1 or 0.3 logMAR (3-year survival; 26% vs. 26%, 91% vs. 90%, respectively). Meanwhile, the additional number of anti-VEGF injections per year was significantly lower in the initial combined PDT group than in the IVA TAE group (1.0 ± 1.3 vs. 4.1 ± 1.5, p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found in the number of additional PDTs per year (0.07 ± 0.20 vs. 0.02 ± 0.09, p = 0.27). Similar results were found in a sub-analysis of 33 patients without polyps.

CONCLUSION

In the treatment of PNV, regardless of the presence of polyps, the long-term visual outcomes were similar between the initial combined PDT and IVA TAE monotherapy. However, the annual number of anti-VEGF injections was lower in the initial combined PDT group than in the aflibercept TAE group, whereas that of PDT was comparable.

Association of Polyp Regression after Loading Phase with 12-Month Outcomes of Eyes with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

PURPOSE

We compared 12-month outcomes of eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) with or without complete regression of polyps observed one month after three monthly intravitreal administrations (loading phase) of aflibercept (2.0 mg/0.05 mL) or brolucizumab (6.0 mg/0.05 mL).

METHODS

All patients underwent indocyanine green angiography at both baseline and 3 months after initial injection and were followed up monthly with an as-needed regimen for up to 12 months. A total of 62 patients with PCV were included: 30 eyes were treated with brolucizumab, and 32 were treated with aflibercept. Eyes with complete regression of polyps (regression group) had significantly smaller maximum polyp diameter and were more frequently treated with brolucizumab than those without complete regression (non-regression) group.

RESULTS

Best corrected visual acuity was comparable between the two groups at 12 months. Although the 12-month retreatment-free proportion was comparable between the two groups (33.0% versus 27.0%, p = 0.59), a retreatment-free period was significantly longer in the regression group than in the non-regression group (8.3 ± 3.3 versus 6.5 ± 3.6 months, p = 0.022), and the number of additional injections was significantly fewer in the regression group than in the non-regression group (1.2 ± 1.2 versus 3.0 ± 2.6, p = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

Complete regression of polyps observed after the initial phase possibly prolongs the retreatment-free period and reduces the number of additional injections irrespective of aflibercept or brolucizumab.

Predicting treatment outcomes of intravitreal brolucizumab for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy through noninvasive assessment of polypoidal lesion blood flow with optical coherence tomography angiography

We investigated the assessment of blood flow within polypoidal lesions using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to determine intravitreal brolucizumab (IVBr) efficacy for treating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). We retrospectively studied 46 eyes with PCV that completed 1-year IVBr treatment. Blood flow signals within polypoidal lesions were evaluated using OCTA after loading-phase treatment, and 1-year outcomes were compared between eyes in which blood flow signals disappeared versus persisting. After loading-phase treatment, blood flow signals within polypoidal lesions disappeared in 31 eyes and persisted in 15. In the former group, visual acuity improved significantly throughout the year (P < 0.01), while in the latter there was no significant difference between baseline and after 1 year. The total number of injections was significantly lower with than without disappearance of blood flow signals (6.0 vs. 6.9, P < 0.01). The intended injection interval at the last visit was significantly longer in the former than in the latter group (15.7 weeks vs. 12.5 weeks, P < 0.01). These results indicate that PCV cases showing disappearance of blood flow signals within polypoidal lesions by OCTA after loading-phase treatment had favorable 1-year outcomes of IVBr. Therefore, evaluating blood flow within polypoidal lesions by OCTA may allow noninvasive prediction of PCV treatment outcomes.

Short-term outcomes of intravitreal faricimab for treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of loading phase treatment with 3 monthly intravitreal injections of faricimab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 16-week outcomes of 40 consecutive eyes of 38 patients with treatment-naïve nAMD. Three monthly injections of faricimab were administered to all eyes as a loading phase treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), foveal thickness, central choroidal thickness (CCT), and dry macula achievement were all assessed every 4 weeks. Moreover, the regression of polypoidal lesions was evaluated after the loading phase.

RESULTS

BCVA was 0.33 ± 0.41 at baseline and showed significant improvement to 0.22 ± 0.36 at week 16 (P < 0.01). Foveal thickness was 278 ± 116 µm at baseline, decreasing significantly to 173 ± 48 µm at week 16 (P < 0.01). CCT was 214 ± 98 µm at baseline, decreasing significantly to 192 ± 89 µm at week 16 (P < 0.01). Dry macula was achieved in 31 eyes (79.5%) at week 16. Indocyanine green angiography after the loading phase revealed complete regression of polypoidal lesions in 11 of 18 eyes (61.1%) with polypoidal lesions. One eye (2.5%) developed vitritis without visual loss at week 16.

CONCLUSION

Loading phase treatment with intravitreal faricimab appears to generally be safe and effective for improving visual acuity and reducing exudative changes in eyes with nAMD.

Visual and Anatomical Outcomes After Initial Intravitreal Faricimab Injection for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Patients with Prior Treatment History

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of a single injection of intravitreal faricimab (IVF) in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) who had a prior treatment history.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on a consecutive cohort of 80 eyes of 75 patients with nAMD who had a prior history of treatment with an injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield thickness (CST), and central choroidal thickness (CCT) were compared before the initial IVF injection and after a treatment interval matching the previous duration.

RESULTS

Central choroidal thickness decreased significantly following the IVF injection, but there was no significant change in BCVA or CST. Mean (± standard deviation) BCVA changed from 0.34 ± 0.37 to 0.36 ± 0.40 (P = 0.29), CST changed from 242 ± 72 to 242 ± 82 µm (P = 0.99), and CCT changed from 189 ± 98 to 179 ± 97 µm (P < 0.0001). When the changes were evaluated according to the previous anti-VEGF agent administered, CCT was found to be significantly decreased by 8.7 ± 2.5 µm (P < 0.0001) in eyes previously treated with brolucizumab and by 13.1 ± 3.6 µm (P < 0.0001) in eyes previously treated with aflibercept. No adverse events were observed during the study period.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal faricimab injection is a safe and effective treatment for nAMD in terms of short-term outcomes. Further long-term study is necessary.

Comparison of one-year outcomes between as-needed brolucizumab and aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

PURPOSE

To compare the one-year visual and anatomic outcomes of an as-needed regimen of brolucizumab and aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective comparative study.

METHODS

A retrospective medical chart review was performed for consecutive 56 eyes from 56 patients with PCV initially treated with thee monthly intravitreal aflibercept (n = 33, 2.0 mg/0.05 ml) or brolucizumab (n = 23, 6.0 mg/0.05 ml) followed by as-needed administration, followed up for at least 12 months. All patients were followed up monthly, and fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were performed at baseline, 3-month, and 12-month visits.

RESULTS

At the 12-month visit, best-corrected visual acuity significantly improved from 0.30 ± 0.31 to 0.21 ± 0.29 (p = 0.042) in the brolucizumab-treated group and from 0.24 ± 0.25 to 0.14 ± 0.25 (p = 7.7×10^-3) in the aflibercept-treated group, suggesting comparable visual improvement in both groups. Central retinal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness decreased by 38.4% and 14.2%, respectively, in the brolucizumab-treated group and by 34.8% and 13.9%, respectively, in the aflibercept-treated group at the 12-month visit. The mean number of additional injections was significantly higher in the aflibercept-treated group (2.9 ± 2.7) than in the brolucizumab-treated group (1.3 ± 1.2, p = 0.045). The complete resolution of polypoidal lesions on ICGA was higher in the brolucizumab-treated group than in the aflibercept-treated group (3-month visit: 56.5% vs 30.3%, 12-month visit: 56.5% vs 30.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

In treatment-naïve eyes with PCV, the as-needed administration regimen of brolucizumab was comparable to aflibercept in terms of visual and anatomical outcomes, with fewer additional injections during the 12-month follow-up.

A Treat-and-Extend Regimen of Intravitreal Brolucizumab for Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration Refractory to Aflibercept: A 12-Month Result

We aimed to investigate whether a treat-and-extend regimen of intravitreal brolucizumab (6.0 mg/0.05 mL) is effective for eyes with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) refractory to aflibercept for 12 months. Sixty eyes from 56 patients receiving brolucizumab for exudative AMD refractory to aflibercept were included. Patients received a mean of 30.1 aflibercept administrations for a mean 67.9-month follow-up. All patients exhibited exudation on optical coherence tomography (OCT) despite regular 4-8 weeks of aflibercept administration. Visit 1 was scheduled at the same interval from the last aflibercept injection to the baseline. The treatment interval was extended or shortened by 1-2 weeks depending on the presence or absence of exudation on OCT. After switching to brolucizumab, the follow-up interval significantly extended at 12 months (before switching: 7.6 ± 3.8 weeks vs. at 12 months: 12.1 ± 6.2 weeks, p = 1.3 × 10^-7). Forty-three percent of the eyes achieved a dry macula at 12 months after switching. However, the best-corrected visual acuity did not improve at any visit. Morphologically, the central retinal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness significantly decreased from baseline at 12 months (p = 3.6 × 10^-3 and 1.0 × 10^-3, respectively). Switching to brolucizumab can be considered to extend the treatment interval in eyes with exudative AMD refractory to aflibercept.

Comparison of the 2-Year Results of Photodynamic Therapy with Aflibercept and Aflibercept Monotherapy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

Purpose

To compare the efficacies of photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) injections and IVA monotherapy using a treat-and-extend regimen (TAE) for treatment-naïve polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Patients and Methods

One hundred and nine eyes treated with PDT combined with IVA (PDT+IVA group: 51 eyes) or IVA monotherapy (IVA group: 58 eyes) were assessed for 2 years. The main outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), central choroidal thickness (CCT), number of IVA injections, and macular atrophy (MA). Polypoidal lesions before and after the loading phase were assessed using indocyanine green angiography.

Results

In both groups, BCVA significantly improved after the loading phase and was maintained for 2 years. CMT and CCT were significantly reduced in both groups, without significant differences after 2 years between the groups (P=0.2708). The mean number of IVA injections in the IVA and PDT+IVA groups during the 2 years were 13.2±3.3 and 12.7±1.8, respectively, without a significant difference (P=0.06). The frequencies of MA expansion in the IVA and PDT+IVA groups during the 2 years were 25.9% and 33.4%, respectively, with no significant difference in the incidence (odds ratio: 1.40, P=0.4253). The ratios of polyp regression after the loading phase in the IVA and PDT+IVA groups were 55.2% and 94.1%, respectively, with a significant difference (P<0.0001).

Conclusion

PDT combined with IVA injections using a TAE regimen is effective for anatomical and visual function improvement, without a significant difference as compared to IVA monotherapy. It can facilitate complete regression of polyps with higher odds.

Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy: An Update on Diagnosis and Treatment

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is a vascular disease of the choroid that leads to hemorrhagic and exudative macular degeneration. It may cause significant vision loss and thus affect the quality-of-life and psychological well-being. Non-invasive, non-ICGA-based OCT criteria have shown reliable results to plan adjunct photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment, with the complete and consistent coverage of polypoidal lesions (PL) and branching neovascular network (BNN). The safety and efficacy of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) monotherapy and its combination with verteporfin PDT have been established. However, treatment is still challenging due to frequent follow-ups, non-availability of PDT, and need for multiple anti-VEGF injection visits that increase the treatment burden and lead to patients being lost to follow-up. Effective treatments that prolong intervals between injections while maintaining vision and anatomical gains remain a critical unmet need. Longer acting molecules, like brolucizumab, have shown non-inferiority in BCVA gains and superior anatomical outcomes compared to other anti-VEGF agents. Newer therapies in the pipeline to enhance the efficacy and longevity of treatment include Faricimab and a port delivery system (PDS). This review summarizes the most recent diagnostic and treatment approaches in PCV to offer better treatment avenues.

Addition of photodynamic therapy to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs compared to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor monotherapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Introduction

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy is characterized by multiple and recurrent serosanguineous detachments of the retinal pigment epithelium and aneurysmal protrusions in the choroidal vessels. Different therapeutic options have been proposed, including anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs and photodynamic therapy. Controversy exists as to whether combination therapy is superior to anti-vascular endothelial factor drugs alone.

Methods

We searched Epistemonikos, the largest database of systematic reviews in health, maintained by screening multiple sources of information, including MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane. We extracted data from the identified reviews, analyzed the data from the primary studies, performed a meta-analysis, and prepared a summary table of the results using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) method.

Results

We identified three systematic reviews that together included twelve primary studies. Of these, two were randomized trials, and only one of them was included in the analysis.

Conclusions

The addition of photodynamic therapy may result in little or no difference in the incidence of retinal hemorrhage and visual acuity gain at six months (low certainty of evidence). On the other hand, the combination of photodynamic therapy and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drugs compared to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor alone is likely to increase polyp regression at three and six months and reduce central retinal thickness at six months.

Comparison of Outcomes between 3 Monthly Brolucizumab and Aflibercept Injections for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

We compared the short-term outcomes between 3-monthly aflibercept and brolucizumab injections for treatment-naïve polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). A total of 52 eyes were included. Patients received 3 monthly intravitreal aflibercept (n = 38) or intravitreal brolucizumab (n = 14). Indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) was performed at baseline and at the 3-month visit. Selection of anti-VEGF agents depended on time. In the brolucizumab-treated group, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 0.27 ± 0.34 (log MAR unit) at baseline to 0.20 ± 0.24 at 3-month visit, which is comparable with the aflibercept-treated group (p = 0.87), after adjustment of confounding factors. Central retinal thickness significantly decreased by 43%−44% in both groups. Subfoveal choroidal thickness also significantly decreased by 20.5% during this interval in the brolucizumab-treated group, which was greater than the aflibercept-treated group. The complete resolution rate of polypoidal lesions on ICGA was significantly higher (p = 0.043) in the brolucizumab-treated group (78.6%) than in the aflibercept-treated group (42.1%). Intraocular inflammation was observed in 14.3% (2/14) in the brolucizumab-treated group only. In short-term follow-up, intravitreal injection of 3-monthly brolucizumab was comparable with aflibercept in terms of BCVA and morphological improvement along with higher resolution of polypoidal lesion(s) on ICGA.

POSTTREATMENT POLYP REGRESSION AND RISK OF MASSIVE SUBMACULAR HEMORRHAGE IN EYES WITH POLYPOIDAL CHOROIDAL VASCULOPATHY

PURPOSE

To study the association between the risk of massive submacular hemorrhage (SMH) and polyp regression after initial treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy using long-term follow-up data.

METHODS

Retrospective study of 223 patients who were diagnosed with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy and were followed up for up to 11 years. Subjects were categorized into "regression" and "no regression" groups, according to their polyp status after the initial treatment. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were performed on development of massive SMH. The association between treatment methods and the occurrence of massive SMH was also analyzed.

RESULTS

The incidence rates of massive SMH at 3, 6, and 9 years in the "no regression" group were 6.50, 22.59, and 38.03%, respectively, and in the "regression" group were 1.14, 6.47, and 10.92%, respectively (P = 0.005, log-rank test). The hazard ratio of massive SMH was 3.677 for cluster-type polyps and 0.271 for polyp regression after initial treatment. A higher rate of polyp regression was associated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) than anti-VEGF monotherapy (64.4 vs. 33.3%, P < 0.001). Additional anti-VEGF treatments after initial PDT showed lower risk of massive SMH than PDT only. (9.5 vs 38.5%, P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

The long-term risk of massive SMH after initial treatment on polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy is significantly higher in eyes with persistent polyps than those with regressed polyps. Ophthalmologists should pay attention to the risk of massive SMH and the polyp status when treating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

Short-term outcomes of intravitreal brolucizumab for treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration with type 1 choroidal neovascularization including polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of loading phase treatment with intravitreal brolucizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with type 1 choroidal neovascularization (CNV). We analyzed consecutive 42 eyes of 40 patients with treatment-naïve nAMD associated with type 1 CNV. Three monthly injections of brolucizumab were completed in 36 eyes (85.7%). In those cases, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.24 ± 0.27 at baseline and improved significantly to 0.12 ± 0.23 after 3 months (P < 0.001). Central macular thickness was 301 ± 110 µm at baseline and decreased significantly to 160 ± 49 µm after 3 months (P < 0.001). Dry macula was achieved in 34 eyes (94.4%) after the loading phase. Central choroidal thickness was 264 ± 89 µm at baseline and decreased significantly to 223 ± 81 µm after 3 months (P < 0.001). Indocyanine green angiography after the loading phase revealed complete regression of polypoidal lesions in 15 of the 19 eyes (78.9%) with polypoidal lesions. Non-infectious intraocular inflammation (IOI) was observed in 8 of 42 eyes (19.0%) during the loading phase, while showing amelioration in response to combination therapy with topical and subtenon injection of steroids. In these eyes, BCVA after 3 months had not deteriorated as compared to that at baseline. These results indicate that loading phase treatment with intravitreal brolucizumab might be effective for improving visual acuity and reducing exudative changes in eyes with nAMD associated with type 1 CNV. Moreover, polypoidal lesions appear to frequently regress after this treatment. However, we must monitor patients carefully for brolucizumab-related IOI, and administer steroid therapy promptly.

Two-year results of a treat and extend regimen with aflibercept in Caucasian patients with aneurysmal type 1 neovascularization

INTRODUCTION

There are a few reports investigating the treatment of aneurysmal type 1 neovascularization (AT1) in Caucasian patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the 2-year results of a treat and extend regimen with aflibercept in Caucasian patients with AT1.

METHODS

We conducted an observational retrospective study in 28 eyes of 26 patients with naïve AT1 treated with a treat an extend regimen of intravitreal aflibercept. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), pigment epithelium detachment (PED) height, presence of dry macula, and regression rate of polypoidal lesions were assessed at baseline and at 12 and 24 months.

RESULTS

BCVA was significantly increased by 9.03 ± 16 letters (p < 0.01) and 9.2 ± 16.87 letters (p < 0.01) after the 12 and 24 months follow-up. A significant decrease of CMT was found at 12 and 24 months (p < 0.01). Nevertheless, significant changes in PED height were not observed (0.1 < p > 0.05). At 12 and 24 months of follow-up, dry macula was achieved in a total of 10 eyes (35.71%) and 15 eyes (53.57%). The regression rate of polypoidal lesions was 25% (7 eyes) and 35.71% (10 eyes) after 12 and 24 months. The mean number of intravitreal injections was 7.81 ± 3.20 the first year and 6.11 ± 3.49 the second year.

CONCLUSION

To the best of our knowledge, treat and extend regimen with intravitreal aflibercept in Caucasian patients may be effective for improving BCVA, CMT, wet macula, and regression rate of polypoidal lesions.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Three Loading Doses of Intravitreal Injection of Conbercept with Injection Combined with PDT for the Treatment of PCV

Purpose

To compare the efficacy between initial 3-monthly intravitreal conbercept monotherapy and combination intravitreal conbercept with photodynamic therapy (PDT) for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Methods

This is a retrospective, comparative study which involved 65 PCV eyes of 65 patients. According to the therapeutic regimen, the PCV patients were divided into two groups: 32 eyes with naive PCV received a PDT after the first intravitreal injection of conbercept (IVC) followed by pro re nata (prn) retreatment (combination group), and 33 eyes with naïve PCV received 3-monthly IVC monotherapy followed by prn regimen (IVC monotherapy group). All patients completed at least 6 months of monthly follow-up.

Results

At month 6, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly (P < 0.05) in both groups compared with that at baseline; the mean changes of BCVA between the IVC monotherapy group and combination group have no significant difference (−0.22 ± 0.22 vs. −0.17 ± 0.22 LogMAR, P = 0.38). The central retinal thickness (CRT) decreased significantly in the two groups (P < 0.05), with no difference between the two groups (P = 0.24). The complete regression rate of polyps was 58.6% (17 out of 29 eyes) in the IVC monotherapy group and 80.65% (25 out of 31 eyes) in the combination group, respectively (P = 0.09, χ-squared test). The combination group required significantly fewer injections than the IVC monotherapy group (3.09 ± 0.89 vs. 3.67 ± 0.74, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Conbercept monotherapy significantly improved visual acuity and effectively regressed polyps during 6-month follow-up time in the treatment of PCV.

The Efficacy of Conbercept in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy: A Systematic Review

Methods

Thirty studies with 1308 eyes were identified and included in this study. The primary outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and secondary outcomes were optical coherence tomography characteristics and polyp regression rates. The pooled results were calculated by the random-effect or fixed-effect model according to the heterogeneity of the data.

Results

Despite a large standard deviation in means (SMD) improvement for BCVA and central retinal thickness (CRT) in the conbercept group, there was no statistically significant difference in the other outcomes compared to ranibizumab and aflibercept. However, there was a greater polyp regression rate in the conbercept group at 12 months.

Conclusions

This systematic review indicates that conbercept may achieve similar BCVA and CRT improvements as ranibizumab and aflibercept, with a superior rate of polyp regression at 12 months.

Response to photodynamic therapy combined with intravitreal aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy depending on fellow-eye condition:2-year results

We investigated whether response to photodynamic therapy (PDT) with intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI) for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) differs depending on fellow eye condition. A retrospective review was conducted for consecutive 60 eyes with PCV treated with PDT combined with IAI as well as 2-years of follow-up data. Fellow eyes were divided into 4 groups; Group 0: no drusen, Group 1; pachydrusen, Group 2; soft drusen, Group 3: PCV/fibrovascular scarring. Best-corrected visual acuity improved at 24-months irrespective of groups and there were no significant differences in visual improvement among treated eyes among the 4 groups. Within 2-years, 35 (58.3%) required the retreatment. The need for retreatment including additional injection and the combination therapy was significantly less in Group 1(12.5%) compared to the others (P = 0.0038) and mean number of additional IAI was also less in Group 1 compared to the others (P = 0.017). The retreatment-free period from the initial combination therapy was longest in Group 1 (23.6±1.1 months) (P = 0.0055, Group 0: 19.1±6.9, Group 2: 12.8±7.9, Group 3: 11.5±9.9). The need for retreatment was significantly different according to fellow-eye condition. Among PCV patients, pachydrusen in fellow eyes appear to be a predictive characteristic for a decreased treatment burden at 2 years.

Title: Pachydrusen in Fellow Eyes Predict Response to Aflibercept Monotherapy in Patients with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

We investigated whether responses to as-needed intravitreal aflibercept injections (IAIs) for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) differed among patients based upon drusen characteristics in fellow eyes. 110 eyes from 110 patients with PCV received 3 monthly IAI and thereafter Pro re nata (PRN) IAI over 12 months. Patients were classified into 4 groups depending on fellow eye findings. Group 1 (n = 16): pachydrusen; Group 2 (n = 45): no drusen; Group 3 (n = 35): soft drusen; Group4 (n = 14) PCV/scarring. Best-corrected visual acuity improved at 12 months in all groups, but not significantly in Group 1 and Group 4; however, visual improvement was similar among the groups after adjusting baseline confounders. Group 1 had a significantly lower percentage of eyes needing retreatment (all p < 0.001; Group 1: 16.7%; Group 2: 50.8%; Group 3: 80%; Group 4: 85.7%). The mean number of retreatments was least in Group 1 among the groups (all p-value < 0.003; Group 1: 0.50 ± 1.32; Group 2: 1.73 ± 2.08; Group 3:2.71 ± 1.99; Group 3: 2.71 ± 2.16). Patients with pachydrusen in fellow eyes were less likely to require additional IAI following the loading dose and may be ideal candidates for aflibercept monotherapy in their first year.

SHORT-TERM EFFICACY OF CONBERCEPT AND RANIBIZUMAB FOR POLYPOIDAL CHOROIDAL VASCULOPATHY

PURPOSE

To compare the 6-month efficacy of the intravitreal injection of conbercept or ranibizumab for patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

METHODS

This is a retrospective case-control study involved 79 PCV eyes of 77 patients. The PCV eyes were treated with an intravitreal injection of either ranibizumab (n = 44) or conbercept (n = 35). Three monthly loading doses were injected and followed by retreatment as needed. The best-corrected visual acuity and angiographic characteristics were evaluated after 6 months.

RESULTS

The mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution best-corrected visual acuity had improved from 0.86 (Snellen equivalent, 20/145) at baseline to 0.70 (Snellen equivalent, 20/100) at 6 months in the conbercept group (P < 0.001), and from 0.74 (Snellen equivalent, 20/110) at baseline to 0.63 (Snellen equivalent, 20/85) at 6 months in the ranibizumab group (P = 0.032), respectively. The central foveal thickness was decreased from 407 ± 146 μm to 230 ± 71 μm in the conbercept group (P < 0.001), and from 394 ± 93 μm to 208 ± 56 μm in the ranibizumab group (P < 0.001). Polyps were completely regressed and in 21 (47.7%) eyes in the conbercept group at 6 months, significant higher than in 10 (28.6%) eyes in the ranibizumab group (P = 0.029).

CONCLUSION

Both conbercept and ranibizumab effectively increased the visual acuity and regressed the polyps of PCV eyes. No significant difference was found in the visual acuity improvement of the patients with PCV between the conbercept group and ranibizumab group at 6 months. However, conbercept was superior to ranibizumab monotherapy in the regression of polyps.

Plasma Levels of Matrix Metalloprotease MMP-9 and Tissue Inhibitor TIMP-1 in Caucasian Patients with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1) are regulating enzymes of the extracellular matrix. A systemic imbalance of MMP-9 and TIMP-1, thought to reflect an imbalance of the extracellular matrix homeostasis, is previously associated with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) in Asian patients. Previous studies suggest inter-ethnical differences in the genetic background and etiology of PCV. To further explore this issue, we studied the plasma levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 in Caucasian patients with PCV and compared to healthy age-matched controls.

METHODS

For this prospective case-control study, 60 participants were recruited who were either patients with PCV (n = 26) or healthy controls (n = 34). All participants underwent detailed clinical examination. We sampled fresh venous blood, isolated plasma, and quantified plasma concentrations of the extracellular matrix regulators MMP-9 and TIMP-1 using electrochemiluminescence immunoassays.

RESULTS

Plasma levels of MMP-9 (p = 0.4), TIMP-1 (p = 0.9), and MMP-9/TIMP-1 ratio (p = 0.4) did not differ significantly between patients with PCV and healthy controls. No differences appeared after adjusting for influencing co-variates in multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrate that Caucasian patients with PCV do not have altered levels of plasma MMP-9 or plasma TIMP-1. These findings suggest no strong evidence of a systemic imbalance of the extracellular matrix homeostasis in Caucasian patients with PCV. Our findings are in line with studies of other aspects of PCV that are also subject to significant inter-ethnical differences.

Effectiveness of polypoidal lesion-selective photodynamic therapy with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

PURPOSE

To evaluate the 24-month effectiveness of polypoidal lesion-selective photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) with branching vascular networks (BVNs) involving the fovea with 1 or more polyps.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective case series.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-six eyes from 25 PCV patients treated with polypoidal lesion-selective PDT combined with aflibercept were included in the study. The main outcome measure was change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and the secondary outcome measures were changes in central retinal thickness and subfoveal choroidal thickness on optical coherence tomography (OCT), status of exudation at 24 months, and number of additional treatments.

RESULTS

Fourteen eyes of 14 patients showed treatment-naïve PCV, and 12 eyes of 11 patients were switched from anti-VEGF monotherapy. The baseline mean logMAR BCVA was 0.43, and this had increased significantly, by 0.31, at 24 months (P = .034). The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) and central choroidal thickness (CCT) were significantly lower at all time points than those at baseline. The mean number of additional injections of aflibercept was 3.1 (range, 0-9), and that of additional PDT treatments was 0.5 (range, 0-2).

CONCLUSION

Polypoidal lesion-selective PDT with aflibercept was effective for relatively large, fovea-involved PCV, with significant visual improvement at 24 months.

Five-year outcomes of photodynamic therapy combined with intravitreal injection of ranibizumab or aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

We report 5-year visual and anatomical outcomes after combination therapy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and intravitreal injection of ranibizumab or aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and predictive factors for visual outcomes at 5-year and time to recurrence. Medical charts were retrospectively reviewed for 43 consecutive eyes with PCV treated with combination therapy of PDT and intravitreal injection of ranibizumab(n = 13) or aflibercept(n = 30) and completed 5-year follow-up. The variants of ARMS2 A69S and CFH I62V were genotyped using TaqMan assay. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly improved at 5-year (P = 0.01) with 20% reduction of subfoveal choroidal thickness irrespective of presence or absence of recurrence. Visual improvement was associated with baseline shorter greatest linear dimension (GLD) (P = 1.0×10-4). Mean time to recurrence was 28.6±23.1 months (95% CI: 21.5-35.7, Median:18.0) and time to recurrence was associated with G allele (protective allele) of ARMS2 A69S and GLD (P = 4.0×10-4 and 1.0×10-2, respectively). Multiple regression analysis revealed that time to recurrence extended by 15.5 months when the G allele of ARMS2 A69S increased by one allele (TT: 15.7±17.0, TG: 30.8±23.5, GG: 41.1±22.6 months). The combination therapy resulted in a favorable visual outcome for PCV during 5-year follow-up.

Long-Term Incidence and Growth of Chorioretinal Atrophy in Patients with Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

PURPOSE

To investigate the long-term incidence and growth rate of chorioretinal atrophy (CRA) in patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and determine the associated risk factors.

METHODS

The medical records of 88 patients with unilateral symptomatic PCV who received anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections with or without photodynamic therapy (PDT) were analyzed retrospectively. Near-infrared fundus imaging and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were used to measure the CRA area and growth rate. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to estimate the CRA incidence. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to investigate risk factors (e.g., age, frequency of abnormal OCT findings, PDT history, total injection number, and choroidal thickness) associated with the CRA incidence and growth rate, respectively.

RESULTS

The overall CRA incidence was 40.8% at 5 years. The absence of subretinal fluid, the presence of intraretinal fluid, and a thin choroid were significant risk factors for CRA occurrence with a history of PDT. Overall 5-year CRA growth rate was 0.69 mm2/year. Faster CRA growth was significantly related to the presence of subretinal hyperreflective material and thin choroid. PDT history was not significantly related to CRA growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Thin choroid may be a significant risk factor for long-term development and growth of CRA in eyes with PCV. Intraretinal fluid seems to promote the development of CRA, while subretinal fluid seems to be associated with CRA prevention. The history of PDT was significantly related to the occurrence of CRA, but not to the growth rate of CRA.

INTRAVITREAL INJECTION OF AFLIBERCEPT IN PATIENTS WITH POLYPOIDAL CHOROIDAL VASCULOPATHY: A 3-YEAR FOLLOW-UP

PURPOSE

To compare the 3-year follow-up results of intravitreal injections of aflibercept between fixed dosing (FD) regimen and a pro re nata (PRN) regimen after three initial monthly doses for the treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy and to analyze factors influencing improvement in visual acuity.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied all treatment-naive patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy who were scheduled to receive intravitreal aflibercept injections FD or PRN after induction treatment between March 2013 and May 2014. Best-corrected visual acuity was evaluated before treatment and at 4, 12, 24, and 36 months after initial treatment. Factors that influence improvement in visual acuity were also investigated.

RESULTS

Thirty-three eyes were assessed at the 3-year follow-up examination. Twenty-three eyes were treated with intravitreal aflibercept injections every 2 months for at least 1 year after three initial monthly doses (FD group), and 10 eyes were treated PRN after loading doses (PRN group). In the FD group, during the follow-up period from 1 to 3 years, quarterly dosing with capped PRN or a treat and extend regimen were selected. The mean number of administered intravitreal aflibercept was 15.3 ± 4.6 in the FD group and 9.0 ± 8.9 in the PRN group, with a significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.004). Significant improvement of the mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution values for best-corrected visual acuity was shown at 36 months, as compared to baseline values (P = 0.019). No significant difference in the improvement of best-corrected visual acuity between the two groups was observed at baseline or at 4, 12, 24, and 36 months after treatment (all P > 0.05), although there was a trend toward better results in the FD group. Multiple regression analysis showed that the FD group had better visual acuity at 36 months and greater improvement in visual acuity than the PRN group (P = 0.031 for both comparisons).

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal aflibercept was effective in improving the vision of patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy, as evaluated at the 3-year follow-up. Fixed treatment might be an important factor influencing improvement in visual acuity.

One-year outcome of combination therapy with intravitreal aflibercept and photodynamic therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Background

To investigate the one-year visual and anatomical outcomes of combination therapy with intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for treating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Methods

This was a retrospective case-series study, including 30 eyes from 30 patients with treatment-naïve PCV treated by combination therapy with IVA and PDT. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), complete polyp regression rate, and dry macula rate were recorded every 3 months during 12-month follow-up. Clinical factors associated with final visual outcome and retreatment were investigated.

Results

The mean LogMAR BCVA was significantly improved from 0.73 ± 0.65 at baseline to 0.51 ± 0.60 (p = 0.01), and the mean CRT was also significantly improved from 339 ± 96 μm at baseline to 244 ± 43 μm at 12-month follow-up (p <  0.001). Complete regression of polypoidal lesions was 76.7%, and dry macula rate was 100% at 12 months. Better final BCVA was associated with younger age and better baseline BCVA (p = 0.02 and p <  0 001). The patients without complete polyp regression at 3-month follow-up were associated with retreatment (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

In this study, combination therapy with IVA and PDT had significant visual and anatomical improvements to PCV patients during one-year follow-up. Better baseline BCVA and younger age were found to be associated with better visual outcome.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s40360-019-0310-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The 24-month outcomes of intravitreal aflibercept combined with photodynamic therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

PURPOSE

This study was prospectively carried out to clarify the effectiveness of visual and anatomical outcomes under combination therapy of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) and verteporfin photodynamic therapy (vPDT) in over 24 months.

STUDY DESIGN

A single-arm prospective exploratory study.

METHODS

Twenty-six eyes of 26 treatment naïve PCV patients were enrolled in this study. The primary outcome measures were the changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the complete polyp regression rate. The secondary outcome measures included central retinal thickness assessed by optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

The patients showed significant improvement in BCVA by 0.14 logMAR units at 12 months and 0.11 logMAR units at 24 months from baseline (both p < 0.01). The mean central retinal thickness also significantly decreased at 12 months (p < 0.001) and at 24 months (p = 0.001). Complete regression of polypoidal lesions was achieved by 15 out of 20 eyes (75%) at 12 months and 11 out of 20 eyes (55%) at 24 months. The mean treatment number was 2.9 courses of IVA and 1.5 courses of vPDT and the mean retreatment free interval after initial therapy was 12.8 months during follow up of 24 months. The complete data from all predetermined examinations were observed in 17 out of 26 enrolled patients (65%) in this study.

CONCLUSION

In this study, combination therapy of IVA and vPDT yielded visual and anatomical improvements in treatment-naïve PCV patients over a 24-month follow-up period.

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy treatment options: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Combined treatment with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) and verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) is widely used for patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), although clinical evidence regarding the therapeutic efficacy and safety of such treatment remains lacking.

DESIGN/METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of previously reported studies comparing combination treatment, PDT monotherapy, and anti-VEGF monotherapy. Primary outcome measures included changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT). The proportion of patients with polyp regression was regarded as the secondary outcome measure.

RESULTS

Twenty studies (three RCTs and 19 retrospective studies) involving 1,178 patients with PCV were selected. Significant differences in the proportion of patients with polyps were observed between the PDT and anti-VEGF monotherapy groups at 3 and ≥6 months (P < .00001; and P = .0001, respectively). Significantly greater reductions in CRT were observed in the anti-VEGF than in the PDT group at the 3-month follow-up (P = .04). Significantly greater improvements in BCVA were observed in the combined therapy group than in the PDT monotherapy group at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months (P = .03; P = .005; P = .02; and P < .00001, respectively). Combined treatment also resulted in significantly greater improvements in BCVA than monotherapy with anti-VEGF at 6 and 24 months (P = .001; P < .00001, respectively), and significantly greater polyp regression than that observed following anti-VEGF treatment at 3 and ≥6 months (P < .00001; P < .0001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined therapy involving anti-VEGF agents and PDT may be more effective in improving long-term outcomes for patients with PCV than monotherapy.

Proteolytic Degradation and Inflammation Play Critical Roles in Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is a common subtype of wet age-related macular degeneration in Asian populations, whereas choroidal neovascularization is the typical subtype in Western populations. The cause of PCV is unknown. By comparing the phenotype of a PCV mouse model expressing protease high temperature requirement factor A1 (HTRA1) in retinal pigment epithelium with transgenic mice expressing the inactive HTRA1S328A, we showed that HTRA1-mediated degradation of elastin in choroidal vessels is critical for the development of PCV, which exhibited destructive extracellular matrix remodeling and vascular smooth muscle cell loss. Compared with weak PCV, severe PCV exhibited prominent immune complex deposition, complement activation, and infiltration of inflammatory cells, suggesting inflammation plays a key role in PCV progression. More important, we validated these findings in human PCV specimens. Intravitreal delivery of an HTRA1 inhibitor (DPMFKLboroV) was effective (36% lesion reduction; P = 0.009) in preventing PCV initiation but ineffective in treating existing lesions. Anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid was effective in preventing PCV progression but ineffective in preventing PCV initiation. These results suggest that PCV pathogenesis occurs through two stages. The initiation stage is mediated by proteolytic degradation of extracellular matrix proteins attributable to increased HTRA1 activity, whereas the progression stage is driven by inflammatory cascades. This study provides a basis for understanding the differences between PCV and choroidal neovascularization, and helps guide the design of effective therapies for PCV.

Comparison of two-year outcomes after photodynamic therapy with ranibizumab or aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents is currently the first-line treatment for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), along with anti-VEGF monotherapy. In this study, 100 eyes with treatment-naïve PCV were initially treated with PDT combined with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR; n = 57) or aflibercept (IVA; n = 43). We compared two-year outcomes between these two groups and investigated factors associated with visual improvement and retreatment over 24 months. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.001) at 24 months. Multiple regression analysis revealed that visual improvement at 24 months was associated with female (P = 0.030), worse baseline BCVA (P = 3.0 × 10⁻⁶), smaller greatest linear dimension (GLD; P = 2.0 × 10⁻⁴), and treatment with IVA rather than IVR (P = 0.016). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that absence of retreatment was associated with younger age (P = 2.2 × 10⁻⁴), female (P = 1.2 × 10⁻³), and the non-risk variants of ARMS2 A69S (P = 6.0 × 10⁻⁴). Although there were no significant differences in the retreatment rate between the two groups, PDT/IVA may be superior to PDT/IVR in terms of visual improvement at 24 months.

Protocol for a randomised, double-masked, sham-controlled phase 4 study on the efficacy, safety and tolerability of intravitreal aflibercept monotherapy compared with aflibercept with adjunctive photodynamic therapy in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: the ATLANTIC study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) with sham photodynamic therapy (sPDT) versus IVA with verteporfin PDT (vPDT) in a Caucasian population with treatment-naive polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), enrolling into a treat and extend (T&E) regimen.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Randomised, double-masked, sham-controlled, multicentre phase 4 investigator-driven clinical trial. The primary outcomes are (1) change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline and (2) polyp regression at week 52, assessed by indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). Fifty patients with treatment-naive PCV will be recruited from Portuguese and Spanish clinical sites. Eligible patients will receive monthly IVA for 3 months (week 0, week 4 and week 8). At week 16, all patients will repeat ICGA and undergo central randomisation (1:1 ratio) into one of the following groups: Group 1-IVA T&E + vPDT; Group 2-IVA T&E + sPDT. PDT will be performed at week 16, week 28 and week 40 in the presence of active polyps. After week 16, the presence of macular fluid on optical coherence tomography will determine the schedule of observations. When present, the interval between visits/injections will decrease 2 weeks (minimum 6 weeks). When not, the interval between visits/injections will increase 2 weeks (maximum 12 weeks). Efficacy will be evaluated based on BCVA, central retinal thickness and polyp regression. Safety parameters will include assessment of intraocular pressure, adverse events and serious adverse events.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was designed and shall be implemented and reported in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) Harmonised Tripartite Guidelines for Good Clinical Practice, with applicable local regulations and with the ethical principles laid down in the Declaration of Helsinki. The study received approval from Comissão de Ética para a Investigação Clínica and Comité Ético de investigación Clínica del Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

This study is registered under the EudraCT number: 2015-001368-20 and the ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02495181.

Comparison between 1-year outcomes of aflibercept with and without photodynamic therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: Retrospective observation study

Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is characterized by polyp-like choroidal neovascularization and a branching vascular network. Intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI) or photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used for treatment. We retrospectively compared the 1-year outcomes of IAI monotherapy and its combination with initial PDT for PCV. Twelve eyes with naïve PCV received three IAIs and a single PDT after the first IAI and as needed injection (combination group); 11 eyes with naïve PCV received three IAIs and as needed injections (IAI group). Significant improvements in visual acuity after 2 months and in CRT after 1 month were maintained at 12 months in both groups (both P < 0.05); groups did not differ significantly at any time point. CCT significantly reduced after 3 and 12 months in the combination group (both P < 0.05) but not in the IAI group. A mean of 3.7 ± 0.9 and 5.6 ± 2.0 injections was administered to the combination and IAI groups, respectively (P = 0.013). Within a 1-year period, combination therapy was found to yield similar visual acuity and retinal structure improvements and maintenance as IAI monotherapy while requiring fewer IAIs.