Abstract | PURPOSE: The diagnostic hallmark of Coats disease is development of "light bulb" telangiectasis in the retinal periphery, leading to posterior pole intraretinal and subretinal exudation. Even after complete obliteration of all abnormal vessels and resorption of all exudates, follow-up examinations are mandatory for several years. METHODS: RESULTS: All our patients had unilateral disease, with macular involvement and exudative retinal detachment. Visual acuity improved in one patient, decreased from light perception to blindness in another, and was unchanged in the remainder. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of anatomical benefits from treatment with a yellow- dye laser (i.e., selective photocoagulation without cryotherapy or drainage) despite the presence of a severe form of Coats disease. Our young Coats patients responded quickly to treatment. With successful obliteration of the abnormal vasculature, exudates began to absorb in about 4 to 8 weeks although, in some cases, 10 to 12 months were needed to obtain resolution of the exudative detachment. Poor visual outcome of 20/100 or worse was common. In Coats patients, the key issue is continuous control and long-term follow-up. (Eur J Ophthalmol 2002; 12: 501-5).
|
Authors | Paolo Nucci, F Bandello, M Serafino, M E Wilson |
Journal | European journal of ophthalmology
(Eur J Ophthalmol)
2002 Nov-Dec 2002
Vol. 12
Issue 6
Pg. 501-505
ISSN: 1724-6016 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 28252721
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
|