Photodynamic therapy of pterygium with verteporfin: a preliminary report.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the efficacy and safety of treating pterygia by photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin (Visudyne).


METHODS
Ten consecutive patients with primary, recurrent, or secondary pterygium, refusing excisional surgery, were treated with a 689-nm laser delivered directly onto the pterygium after verteporfin infusion. Postoperative outcome was followed clinically and photographically for a minimum of 3 months.


RESULTS
Successful photothrombosis of pterygium vascularization was obtained immediately after treatment in all cases. After 1 month, revascularization of pterygia was observed in 70% of cases, and treatment was repeated after a 3-month interval. Regression or stabilization of pterygia was manifested by a scarring reaction of the corneal apex with complete or partial disappearance of vascularity. No relevant side effects were observed in our series.


CONCLUSIONS
PDT with verteporfin is a safe procedure to arrest the growth of pterygia. It is indicated for patients with a low- or medium-grade pterygium that refuse a surgical approach; however, multiple sessions may be required.
Fossarello
Maurizio
M
Department of Surgical Sciences, Eye Clinic, University of Cagliari, I-09124 Cagliari, Italy. mfossarello@libero.it
Peiretti
Enrico
E
Zucca
Ignazio
I
Perra
Maria Teresa
MT
Serra
Antonina
A
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001808:Blood Vessels / Q000187:drug effects / Q000473:pathology; D003228:Conjunctiva / Q000098:blood supply / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D015590:Fluorophotometry; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010778:Photochemotherapy; D017319:Photosensitizing Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011166:Porphyrins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011625:Pterygium / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology; D012008:Recurrence; D000077362:Verteporfin
D017319:Photosensitizing Agents; D011166:Porphyrins; D000077362:Verteporfin