The neovascular form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is characterized by growth of newly formed vessels, accumulation of fluid and, in most cases, presence of retinal pigment epithelium detachment. Depending on its localization in relation to retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), macular neovascularization (MNV) can be considered type 1 when it is located under the RPE, and type 2 when it is invading the RPE and the neurosensory part of the retina.

PURPOSE

To conduct a retrospective analysis of the use of anti-VEGF therapy in AMD patients with types I and II of MNV.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study enrolled 89 AMD patients (89 eyes) with active MNV who have been under observation for 3 years. In the course of treatment all patients underwent standard ophthalmological examination that included visometry, biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy with mydriasis, as well as optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS

Anti-VEGF therapy was found to stabilize best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in both types of MNV (I and II). Comparison of the intraretinal and subretinal fluids (IRF and SRF) revealed that initially neuroepithelium detachment is more frequent (approximately in 90% of eyes) than IRF (30—40%). Antiangiogenic therapy is associated with better resorption of SRF, by the third year of the follow-up the neuroepithelium detachment is visualized in 60% of patients, while IRF remains and is observed in 40% of cases.

CONCLUSION

Antiangiogenic therapy has shown good functional and morphological effectiveness in both first and second types of MNV.