Eye with glowing vessels, representing CNV treatment options.

Myopic CNV Treatment: Anti-VEGF vs. PDT – Which Vision Therapy Is Best?

Lena Kashyap in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover the latest insights into managing myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) with our detailed comparison of Anti-VEGF and PDT therapies, helping you make informed decisions for optimal vision health."

Pathologic myopia, a severe form of nearsightedness, is a leading cause of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in individuals under 50. CNV, the abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye, can lead to significant vision loss. Myopic CNV (mCNV), specifically, is a major complication that, left untreated, can severely impair visual acuity.

Traditionally, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been used to manage mCNV. However, with the advent of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies, a new avenue for treatment has emerged. Anti-VEGF treatments aim to inhibit the growth of these abnormal blood vessels, reducing their impact on vision.

This article explores a detailed comparison of anti-VEGF therapy and PDT for treating myopic CNV, drawing upon recent research to provide clear, actionable insights. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply interested in vision health, understanding these options is crucial for making informed decisions.

Anti-VEGF vs. PDT: Understanding the Treatment Options for Myopic CNV

Eye with glowing vessels, representing CNV treatment options.

A retrospective study compared the effectiveness of anti-VEGF therapy versus photodynamic therapy (PDT) for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV). The study included 42 eyes from 42 patients with mCNV, dividing them into two groups: a PDT group (20 eyes) and an anti-VEGF group (22 eyes).

The key metrics evaluated included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), greatest linear dimension (GLD), central retinal thickness (CRT), and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness. These parameters were compared at baseline and after the initial treatment to determine which therapy provided better visual and anatomical outcomes.

Anti-VEGF Therapy: Involves intravitreal injections of drugs like bevacizumab or ranibizumab to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Uses a light-activated drug (verteporfin) to destroy the abnormal blood vessels.

The results indicated that anti-VEGF therapy led to significantly better visual outcomes compared to PDT. The mean BCVA improved significantly in the anti-VEGF group at both 3 and 6 months after treatment. While modest improvements were observed in the PDT group, they were not statistically significant. Additionally, the study found that anti-VEGF therapy resulted in a greater reduction in central retinal thickness (CRT).

Choosing the Right Path for Your Vision

The decision between anti-VEGF therapy and PDT for myopic CNV should be made in consultation with your ophthalmologist. Factors such as the severity of your condition, your overall health, and the potential risks and benefits of each treatment should be carefully considered to determine the best course of action for preserving your vision.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.5301/ejo.2011.7750, Alternate LINK

Title: Comparison Between Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy And Photodynamic Therapy For Myopic Choroidal Neovascularization

Subject: Ophthalmology

Journal: European Journal of Ophthalmology

Publisher: SAGE Publications

Authors: Misa Matsuo, Shigeru Honda, Wataru Matsumiya, Sentaro Kusuhara, Yasutomo Tsukahara, Akira Negi

Published: 2012-03-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and why is it a concern?

Myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) is a condition where abnormal blood vessels grow in the choroid layer of the eye, specifically in individuals with pathologic myopia (severe nearsightedness). This is a significant concern because these new vessels can leak fluid or bleed, leading to vision loss. If left untreated, mCNV can severely impair visual acuity, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.

What are the primary treatment options for mCNV?

The two main treatment options for managing myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) are Anti-VEGF therapy and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT). Anti-VEGF therapy involves injecting drugs like bevacizumab or ranibizumab into the eye to inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) uses a light-activated drug, verteporfin, to destroy these abnormal vessels.

How does Anti-VEGF therapy work in treating mCNV?

Anti-VEGF therapy treats myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) by using drugs, such as bevacizumab or ranibizumab, to block vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF is a protein that promotes the growth of new blood vessels. By inhibiting VEGF, Anti-VEGF therapy effectively slows or stops the growth of the abnormal blood vessels that characterize mCNV. This helps reduce fluid leakage and bleeding, thereby protecting and often improving visual acuity.

What were the key findings of the study comparing Anti-VEGF therapy and PDT for mCNV?

A retrospective study compared Anti-VEGF therapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) and revealed important distinctions. The study measured best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), greatest linear dimension (GLD), central retinal thickness (CRT), and outer nuclear layer (ONL) thickness. The key finding was that Anti-VEGF therapy led to significantly better visual outcomes, with greater improvement in BCVA at both 3 and 6 months compared to PDT. Furthermore, Anti-VEGF therapy resulted in a greater reduction in central retinal thickness (CRT), indicating a positive impact on the anatomical structure of the eye.

What factors should I consider when choosing between Anti-VEGF therapy and PDT for mCNV?

The decision between Anti-VEGF therapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT) for myopic choroidal neovascularization (mCNV) requires careful consideration in consultation with an ophthalmologist. The severity of your condition is a primary factor, as the stage of mCNV can influence treatment choice. Your overall health is important because some treatments may be unsuitable based on pre-existing conditions or other health considerations. You should also discuss the potential risks and benefits of each treatment, including potential side effects, the frequency of treatments, and the expected impact on vision. Your ophthalmologist can assess all these factors and guide you toward the most appropriate course of action to preserve your vision effectively.