Macular telangiectasia

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Macular telangiectasia
Synonyms	MacTel, Idiopathic juxtafoveal telangiectasia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Visual impairment, metamorphopsia, scotoma
Complications	Retinal detachment, neovascularization
Onset	Middle age
Duration	Chronic
Types	Type 1 (aneurysmal), Type 2 (perifoveal), Type 3 (occlusive)
Causes	Unknown, possibly genetic and environmental factors
Risks	Diabetes, hypertension, smoking
Diagnosis	Ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography
Differential diagnosis	Age-related macular degeneration, central serous retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion
Prevention	None
Treatment	Anti-VEGF therapy, laser photocoagulation, vitamin supplementation
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Variable, often progressive
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Schematic diagram of the human eye

Macular Telangiectasia (MacTel) is a disease that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for detailed, central vision. The disease is characterized by telangiectasia, or abnormal blood vessels, in the macula.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Macular Telangiectasia can vary, but often include:

• Blurred vision
• Distorted vision
• Trouble reading or performing tasks that require the ability to see detail
• A blind spot in the center of the visual field

Causes

The exact cause of Macular Telangiectasia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to changes in the blood vessels of the macula. Some researchers believe that it may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Diagnosis

Macular Telangiectasia is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. This may include:

• A visual acuity test
• A dilated eye exam
• Fluorescein angiography
• Optical coherence tomography

Treatment

There is currently no cure for Macular Telangiectasia. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. This may include:

• Laser therapy
• Anti-VEGF therapy
• Photodynamic therapy

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with Macular Telangiectasia varies. Some people may experience a slow progression of the disease, while others may experience a rapid loss of vision.

See also

• Macula of retina
• Telangiectasia
• Eye examination
• Laser therapy
• Anti-VEGF therapy
• Photodynamic therapy