What is a sea fan neovascularization?

What is a sea fan neovascularization?

Sea fan neovascularization is the hallmark of sickle cell retinopathy, but it is also reported in medical conditions, such as thrombocytosis [6], sarcoidosis [7], retinitis pigmentosa [8].

How common is sickle cell retinopathy?

The Jamaican Cohort Study showed that the prevalence of sickle cell retinopathy was 43% in SC and 14% in SS by age 20.5 years with an anual incidence of 2.5% for SC and 0.5% for SS. Progression was associated with age, extent of sickle cell retinopathy and presence of retinopathy in the contralateral eye.

What is Eales disease?

Eales Disease is a rare disorder of sight that appears as an inflammation and white haze around the outercoat of the veins in the retina. The disorder is most prevalent among young males and normally affects both eyes.

How is sickle cell retinopathy treated?

Treatment of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy:

1. Observation is indicated for smaller areas of abnormal blood vessel growth since these will usually disappear without treatment.
2. Laser treatment of large areas of ischemia (blood vessel blockage) can prevent the release of factors that promote abnormal blood vessels.

Does sickle cell cause blindness?

Blindness. Sickle cells can block tiny blood vessels that supply your eyes. Over time, this can damage your eye and lead to blindness.

How does sickle cell affect your vision?

People who have sickle cell disease can sometimes have vision problems. Blood cells that change shape, or “sickle,” can get trapped in blood vessels, blocking the blood flow. When this blockage occurs in the small blood vessels in the inner lining (retina) of the eyes, it can cause vision problems.

Can retinal vasculitis be cured?

Treatment of retinal vasculitis typically involves high doses of cortisone-related medications, such as prednisone. Additionally, some diseases require immune suppression with medications, such as cyclosporine, chlorambucil, and cyclophosphamide.

How often should a person with sickle cell disease have their retina examined?

A person with sickle cell disease should begin having eye exams at 9 or 10 years old. The exams will be repeated annually for patients with sickle hemoglobin C disease and every other year for those with other types of sickle cell disease.