Overview
Coats disease is a rare eye disorder characterized by abnormal development of blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage, retinal detachment, and vision loss. It usually affects one eye and is more common in boys during childhood. In Korea, advanced ophthalmology centers provide early diagnosis and effective treatment options, helping to preserve vision and prevent complications.
What is Coats Disease?
Coats disease is a non-hereditary retinal vascular disorder in which weakened blood vessels in the retina leak fluid, causing retinal swelling and sometimes detachment. If left untreated, it can result in severe vision impairment or blindness. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.
Symptoms
- Vision loss in one eye
- Leukocoria (white reflection from the pupil)
- Squinting or misalignment of the eyes (strabismus)
- Eye redness or swelling
- Retinal detachment in advanced stages
- Sometimes no noticeable symptoms in early stages
Causes
The exact cause of Coats disease is unknown. It is considered idiopathic and non-hereditary. Abnormal retinal blood vessel development leads to leakage of blood and fluid into the retina.
Risk Factors
- Male children are more commonly affected
- Usually occurs in childhood, often before age 10
- Rare in adults
- Typically affects only one eye (unilateral)
- No known genetic or environmental risk factors
Complications
- Partial or complete vision loss in the affected eye
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma due to increased eye pressure
- Eye pain or cosmetic issues in advanced stages
- Potential need for enucleation (eye removal) if severe
Prevention
- No known prevention since the condition is not hereditary or lifestyle-related
- Early detection through regular pediatric eye examinations is crucial
- Prompt referral to a specialized ophthalmologist if symptoms appear
Treatment Options in Korea
Treatment focuses on stopping disease progression, preserving vision, and preventing complications. Korean ophthalmology centers offer both non-surgical and surgical options:
- Laser Photocoagulation
- Seals leaking retinal vessels
- Prevents further retinal damage and detachment
- Cryotherapy
- Freezing therapy for abnormal blood vessels
- Used in cases where laser treatment is not feasible
- Anti-VEGF Therapy
- Injection of medications that reduce abnormal blood vessel growth
- May be combined with laser or surgical treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Vitrectomy: Removal of vitreous gel in severe retinal detachment
- Scleral buckling: Supports the retina in detachment cases
- Enucleation in advanced cases with no visual potential
