Retinal telangiectasia describes dilated, thin-walled blood vessels in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of your eye. These abnormally enlarged vessels can leak fluid or blood, potentially causing vision problems.
Types of Retinal Telangiectasia
Several types exist, including idiopathic retinal telangiectasia (IRT), Coats’ disease, and familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR). IRT, the most common, often affects younger adults and may be hereditary. Coats’ disease usually begins in childhood, and FEVR is a more severe, inherited condition involving abnormal blood vessel growth throughout the retina.
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity. Blurred vision, floaters (small spots or specks in your vision), and visual distortions are common. In some cases, you might notice a loss of central vision. Regular eye exams, especially if you have a family history of retinal vascular disorders, are key to early detection.
Diagnosis relies on a comprehensive eye exam, including retinal imaging techniques like fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT). These tests provide detailed images of your retinal blood vessels, identifying abnormal dilation and leakage. Treatment approaches depend on the specific type, severity, and symptoms. Options range from regular monitoring to laser treatment or anti-VEGF injections to reduce fluid leakage and stabilize vision.
