Choroidal Neovascular Membrane
Choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) is an ingrowth of new vessels from the choriocapillaris through a break in the outer aspect of Bruch’s membrane into the sub-pigment epithelial space. These new vessels are accompanied by fibroblasts, resulting in a fibrovascular complex that proliferates within the inner aspect of Bruch’s membrane. This fibrovascular complex can disrupt and destroy the normal architecture of the choriocapillaris, Bruch’s membrane, and the RPE. In addition, fibroglial and fibrovascular tissue can also disrupt and destroy the normal architecture of the photoreceptors and the remaining outer retina leading to the formation of a disciform scar. Within the subpigment epithelial space, the CNV can leak fluid and blood and may be accompanied by a serous or hemorrhagic detachment of the RPE. CNVM that remains restricted to the sub-RPE space is Type1 CNVM and when it becomes sub-retinal it is Type 2 CNVM. Clinical Features Symptoms of CNVM: Sudden onset of decreased vision