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Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy is also known as the Asian AMD (Age Related Macular Degeneration). It is heralded by sudden onsent of visual loss, with serosanguinous detachment (bleeding and fluid under the retina). It is more common in Asians, but share some similar features with Macular Degeneration, and it was until recently was labeled as AMD.
It is diagnosed by doing an OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography), which shows us presence of fluid or polyps. In certain cases ICG angiography may be requested.
The current treatment for PCV is anti-Neovascularization or also known as anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor), with or without the use of thermal laser or PDT (Photodynamic Therapy). Is there a difference among the 3 anti-VEGF currently in use, namely Lucentis, Eylea, or Avastin?
Current published and recent unpublished 2 year data suggests that Aflibercept, may have certain advantages over the other drugs, since it lessens the need for combining with PDT. Of course, your Retina doctor should always guide you in the choice, since there are many factors to consider, eg cost, follow up issues, and ability to comply with sometimes prolonged and repeated injections.