Quantel Medical (Clermont-Ferrand, France) has received CE Mark approval for its Vitra PDT photodynamic therapy laser platform in treating the ophthalmic conditions polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and central serous retinopathy (CSR). The company plans to begin commercializing the laser platform immediately in countries requiring CE registration.
PCV, a disease of the choroidal vasculature, is present in both men and women of many ethnicities, characterized by detachments of the pigmented epithelium and exudative changes that can commonly lead to subretinal fibrosis. It is reported to be prevalent in 20-50 percent of Asian patients with presumed neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and in 4-12 percent of Caucasians. However, it is currently believed that the true prevalence of disease is underreported, and accordingly, additional demand for treatment modalities is anticipated. Studies have demonstrated excellent short-term efficacy of PDT for treating PCV.
CSR is an eye disease that causes visual impairment, often temporary, usually in one eye. When the disorder is active, it is characterized by leakage of fluid under the retina that has a propensity to accumulate under the central macula.
For more information on the statistics reported, please see the list of references here: http://www.quantel-medical.com/upload/fichiers/WW1410521081W5412d7f9757520.pdf.