Fundus autofluorescence in subfoveal choroidal neovascularisation secondary to Pathological Myopia. Issue 6 (30th March 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Parodi, M Battaglia; Iacono, P; Ravalico, G
• Is Part Of: British journal of ophthalmology. Volume 93:Issue 6(2009)
• Page Start: 771
• Page End: 774
• Publication Date: 2009-03-30
• Subjects: Ophthalmology -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2008.139576
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1161

Abstract

Abstract : Aim: To describe the fundus autofluorescence (FAF) characteristics of choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) associated with pathological myopia (PM), and their modification after photodynamic therapy (PDT). Design: Open-label, prospective, interventional case series. Methods: Forty-two patients affected by subfoveal CNV in PM underwent PDT with a 24-month follow-up. Each patient underwent an ophthalmological examination every 3 months, including FAF and fluorescein angiography. FAF distribution was qualitatively evaluated at the CNV site, around the CNV and outside the area affected by CNV. Results: CNV at baseline showed a high FAF signal with uniform distribution, or with some spots of low FAF internally, in 64% and 36% of cases, respectively. At the 3-month control after PDT, the CNV retained the same response, but a round halo of increased signal extending beyond the site of the PDT application was detectable around the CNV. At the end of the follow-up, a high or a low FAF signal was detected in 40% and 60% of cases, respectively. Conclusion: CNV secondary to PM shows a specific, high signal, FAF pattern. A round halo of increased FAF signal surrounding the CNV was detectable after PDT application, whereas a FAF signal progressive reduction was visible at and around the CNV site from the sixth month. A high FAF signal at the CNV site is associated with an improved visual acuity outcome at the 2-year follow-up. Further studies to correlate the morphological and functional features are advisable, especially by means of microperimetric analyses and with a longer-term follow-up.