The use of corticosteroids for choroidal neovascularisation in young patients

Christina J. Flaxel, Sarah L. Owens, Bridget Mulholland, Steven D. Schwartz, Zdenek J. Gregor

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

88 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose. To investigate the role of systemic corticosteroids in the treatment of sight-threatening choroidal neovascularisation (CNV) in patients with punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) and multifocal inner choroiditis (MIC). Methods. Twelve eyes of 10 patients with evidence of PIC or MIC with recent visual symptoms were identified. All eyes had CNV within the foveal avascular zone on fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA). Systemic oral prednisolone at an initial dose of 1 mg/kg (60-80 mg) was given for 3-5 days and the dose was subsequently tapered. Changes in best corrected visual acuity and leakage on FFA were recorded during follow-up. Systemic side-effects of the corticosteroids were monitored. Results. In 10 of 12 eyes vision improved or stabilised. Leakage on FFA resolved in 9 eyes and was reduced in 3. Four patients required more than one course of oral corticosteroids. One patient was maintained on low-dose oral corticosteroids for recurrent CNV activity. No systemic complications from the treatment were observed. Conclusion. A course of oral corticosteroids in healthy young patients with subfoveal CNV in PIC or MIC may reduce subretinal vascular leakage and stabilise vision when no other proven treatment option is available.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)266-272
Number of pages7
JournalEye
Volume12
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 1998
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Chorioretinal scarring
  • Choroidal neovascularisation (CNV)
  • Corticosteroid therapy
  • Multifocal inner choroiditis (MIC)
  • Punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology
  • Sensory Systems

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