Published online Aug 12, 2014. doi: 10.5318/wjo.v4.i3.35
Revised: June 30, 2014
Accepted: July 25, 2014
Published online: August 12, 2014
Processing time: 185 Days and 21.4 Hours
Myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV), one of the complications of pathological myopia, is also one of the leading causes of visual impairment worldwide. The socioeconomic impact of mCNV in Asian countries is particularly significant due to the rising incidence of pathological myopia. There have been major advances in the treatment of mCNV in the past few years. Previous treatment modalities, such as thermal laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy, aimed to prevent vision loss; however, newer modalities such as intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents have been shown to successfully restore vision in many patients. Challenges remain as long term safety and efficacy of anti-VEGF agents are unknown. This article aims to provide a review of the literature of the epidemiology, progression, clinical course and treatment modalities as well as areas of future developments related to myopic CNV.
Core tip: Myopic choroidal neovascularization is one of the leading causes of visual impairment worldwide, with increasing significance in Asia. Previous treatments aimed to maintain vision; however, new treatments such as vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors have been shown to restore vision. However, their long term efficacy and safety is still unknown.