Comparative efficacy of conbercept 3+PRN versus 3+TAE regimens for the treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy.

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of the 3+ pro re nata (PRN) and 3+ treat-and-extend (TAE) regimens of intravitreal conbercept for treating polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV).

Methods: This retrospective, single-center study included 106 treatment-naïve PCV patients who received intravitreal conbercept injections between March 2019 and September 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on post-loading regimens: 3+PRN (65 patients) or 3+TAE (41 patients). All patients received three initial monthly injections. The 3+PRN group received additional injections as needed, while the 3+TAE group had treatment intervals adjusted based on lesion activity and visual acuity stability. Outcomes were assessed over 12 months, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height, polyp regression, number of injections, and follow-up visits.

Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in BCVA from baseline to month 12 (3+TAE: 53.9 ± 16.5-61.4 ± 10.9 letters; 3+PRN: 54.6 ± 15.8-60.7 ± 11.5 letters; both P < 0.05), with no significant differences between groups (P > 0.05). CRT and PED height decreased significantly in both groups (P < 0.001), with no intergroup differences. Polypoidal lesion regression rates were similar at month 12 (3+TAE: 43.9%, 3+PRN: 44.6%; P = 0.964). The 3+PRN group required fewer injections (7.4 ± 0.7 vs. 8.2±1.6; P = 0.003) but more follow-up visits (12.6 ± 1.4 vs. 10.7 ± 1.2; P < 0.001) compared to the 3+TAE group. No ocular or systemic complications were reported in either group.

Conclusions: Both the 3+PRN and 3+TAE conbercept regimens are effective and safe for treating PCV, demonstrating similar improvements in visual and anatomical outcomes. The 3+TAE regimen requires more injections but fewer follow-up visits, which may enhance patient adherence by reducing clinic visits.