Photodynamic therapy with verteporfin for anterior segment neovascularizations in neovascular glaucoma.

PURPOSE: To evaluate photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin for iris and angle neovascularization in eyes with neovascular glaucoma.

DESIGN: Interventional case series.

METHODS: A prospective, noncomparative case series included four patients (four eyes) with neovascular glaucoma. PDT was performed following the parameters of treatment of age-related macular degeneration with photodynamic therapy Study Group (TAP). The laser was directed at the anterior chamber angle and iris surface using a Goldmann three-mirror contact lens. Iris and angle neovascularization were quantified using the number of clock hours involved. Outcome measures were obliteration of neovascularization and decrease of intraocular pressure (IOP).

RESULTS: One week after PDT, we registered complete obliteration of angle neovascularization and partial occlusion of iris neovascularization. Subsequent reopening of angle neovascularization was detectable at 1 month. Intraocular pressure diminished considerably after 1 week, with a subsequent tendency toward stabilization.

CONCLUSIONS: Photodynamic therapy can be used safely and effectively in the early phases of neovascular glaucoma to achieve angle neovascularization obliteration and IOP reduction.