Eales disease
| Eales disease | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Retinal periphlebitis, Primary retinal perivasculitis |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Floaters, vision loss, photopsia |
| Complications | Retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage |
| Onset | Typically in young adults |
| Duration | Chronic |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Unknown, possibly autoimmune |
| Risks | Tuberculosis, genetic predisposition |
| Diagnosis | Fluorescein angiography, Ophthalmoscopy |
| Differential diagnosis | Diabetic retinopathy, Sarcoidosis, Behçet's disease |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Corticosteroids, laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy |
| Medication | N/A |
| Prognosis | Variable, can lead to significant vision loss if untreated |
| Frequency | Rare |
| Deaths | N/A |
Eales disease is an idiopathic, inflammatory condition that primarily affects the retina of the eye. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of retinal vasculitis, peripheral retinal ischemia, and neovascularization. The disease predominantly affects young adults, particularly males, and can lead to significant visual impairment if not managed appropriately.
Etiology[edit]
The exact cause of Eales disease remains unknown. However, it is believed to be associated with an abnormal immune response. Some studies suggest a possible link to tuberculosis due to the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis DNA in the ocular fluids of some patients.
Pathophysiology[edit]
Eales disease progresses through three stages:
- Inflammatory stage: Characterized by periphlebitis and retinal vasculitis.
- Ischemic stage: Marked by retinal ischemia and capillary non-perfusion.
- Proliferative stage: Involves neovascularization, which can lead to vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment.
Clinical Features[edit]
Patients with Eales disease typically present with:
On examination, signs may include:
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by imaging studies such as:
Treatment[edit]
Management of Eales disease includes:
- Corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Anti-tubercular therapy if associated with tuberculosis
- Laser photocoagulation to manage neovascularization
- Vitrectomy for non-resolving vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment
Prognosis[edit]
The prognosis of Eales disease varies. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help preserve vision. However, complications such as recurrent vitreous hemorrhage and retinal detachment can lead to significant visual impairment.
Related Pages[edit]
