Aflibercept shows promise in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy may benefit from intravitreal aflibercept (Eylea, Bayer HealthCare). According to a study in Retina, treatment-naïve patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy who received aflibercept demonstrated improved vision at a 6-month follow-up. The therapy was well-tolerated and might also be associated with achieving involution of polyps and reducing exudative findings, according to the researchers.

Sixteen treatment-naïve patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy received intravitreal aflibercept between February 2013 and July 2013.

At 6 months after the initial treatment, a significantly better best-corrected visual acuity was seen, compared with baseline.

In addition:

• The patients' mean central foveal thickness decreased significantly (from 417 ± 127 μm to 187 ± 50 μm).

• The patients' mean choroidal thickness decreased significantly (from 250 ± 63 μm to 217 ± 64 μm).

• A complete resolution was achieved in 14 of 15 cases with subretinal fluid, 3 of 4 cases with fibrin, and 8 of 9 cases with subretinal haemorrhage.

• Of the 9 cases with pigment epithelial detachment, 5 obtained a complete improvement, and 3 exhibited a partial decrease.

• Polyps regressed at a rate of 75% (12 out of 16 cases).

To read the abstract of the study, click here.