Sequence of Early Vascular Events after Photodynamic Therapy

Abstract

In contrast to findings in experimental animals, PDT in humans with classic CNV did not induce immediate thrombosis, but primarily caused a breakdown of vascular barriers. A characteristic sequence of vascular changes was observed with early, enhanced leakage from the CNV and normal choroid followed by nonperfusion later. Occlusion of the CNV lesions occurred 1 day after treatment, but closure of the adjacent choroidal vessels proceeded slowly over as long as 1 week.