Who Is at Risk for Angioid Streaks?
Although angioid streaks can occur without a systemic cause, most cases are associated with elastic tissue diseases. Up to 50 percent of people with angioid streaks have either pseudoxanthoma elasticum, Paget’s disease or sickle cell hemoglobinopathy.Why Do Angioid Streaks Cause Vision Loss?
When breaks occur in the lower retinal layers, the layers can no longer properly nourish the photorecptor cells. This results in leakage of fluid and a lack of oxygen. Choriodal neovascular nets (a fine mesh of blood vessels and fibrous tissue) then begin form. These nets can cause more hemorrhaging and scarring in the macula. This formation is similar to what sometimes occurs with macular degeneration. Significant vision loss can occur.How Are Angioid Streaks Treated?
Unfortunately, it is impossible to make angioid streaks go away. Annual eye examinations should be performed by an optometrist or general ophthalmologist to check for the development of neovascular nets and other associated signs. If they occur, you will be referred to a retinal specialist for treatment, which may involve the use of a laser to halt progression. Surgical removal of neovascular nets is also a treatment choice, as well as photodynamic therapy.What You Should Know about Angioid Streaks
People with angioid streaks have a fragile eye, placing them at higher risk for choroidal rupture and subretinal hemorrhage if they undergo eye trauma. Therefore, eye protection is a must. Polycarbonate lenses should be prescribed as they are the most impact-resistant lens material. Special safety goggles should be worn during contact sports.Source:
Alexander, Larry J. Primary Care of the Posterior Segment, Second Edition. Appleton & Lange, 1994, pp 300-301.
