PDT with SnET2 trial shows promise, study finds

ANAHEIM, Calif. — A new form of photodynamic therapy has shown the ability to stabilize visual acuity in patients with classic choroidal neovascularization, according to a speaker here.

Patients treated two or more times with SnET2 photodynamic therapy (Miravant Medical Technologies) experienced a reduction in fluorescein leakage and improved visual stability, according to Edgar L. Thomas, MD, an associate professor of clinical ophthalmology at Washington University in St. Louis.

Dr. Thomas presented the results of two phase 3 trials of PDT with SnET2 here at the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting. If approved, this therapy would be the first PDT competitor to Visudyne (verteporfin for injection, Novartis Ophthalmics) for use in wet macular degeneration,

Dr. Thomas explained that the primary endpoint of the study was the loss of less than 15 letters at 103 weeks follow-up. He said visual stabilization was experienced across the board by a broad range of patients, but that the patients who received three treatments over the first 6 months experienced the most benefit in terms of visual acuity.

Dr. Thomas said the studies confirmed that 0.5 mg/kg is the most efficacious drug dosage.