angioid streaks

What are Angioid Streaks?

Angioid streaks are irregular, jagged, curvilinear lines that radiate from the optic nerve in all directions [4]. These lines were first described in 1889 by Doyne and later called angioid streaks by Knapp because of their resemblance to the branching pattern of blood vessels [14].

Characteristics

Angioid streaks are linear breaks in a thickened and brittle membrane, often associated with systemic diseases like pseudoxanthoma elasticum, Paget's disease, hemoglobinopathies, or other diseases of the collagen [6]. They can be idiopathic or secondary to blunt trauma [12].

Appearance

These streaks lie beneath the retina and above the choroidal vasculature, making them visible in fundoscopy under the retinal vessels [2]. They have a thickness of 50–500 μm and are irregular in shape, with some fine radial streaks associated with interconnected circular breaks near the optic disc [5].

Prevalence

Angioid streaks become more common with age in people with sickle cell hemoglobinopathies. While only about 1.5% of younger individuals have them, up to 22% of individuals over the age of 55 are affected [3].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Angioid Streaks

Angioid streaks are generally asymptomatic, but they can cause visual impairment when complications such as choroidal neovascularization or subretinal hemorrhage occur. The following signs and symptoms may be associated with angioid streaks:

• Irregular, spokelike, curvilinear or jagged streaks: These linear cracks in Bruch's membrane are a hallmark sign of angioid streaks [3].
• Visual impairment: Angioid streaks can cause visual impairment when they involve the macula and lead to complications such as choroidal neovascularization or subretinal hemorrhage [2].
• Metamorphopsia and micropsia: These are early signs of complications associated with angioid streaks, which can occur when the streaks involve the fovea or choroidal neovascularization involving the macular region [11].
• Distorted vision or decreased visual acuity: Angioid streaks can lead to fibrous tissue from the choroid invading the subretinal epithelial space, resulting in bleeding, new blood vessel formation, and scarring, which can cause symptoms like distorted vision or decreased visual acuity [13].

It's essential to note that angioid streaks are often asymptomatic, and these signs and symptoms may only occur when complications arise. If you suspect you have angioid streaks, it's crucial to consult an eye doctor for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

References:

[2] Context result 2 [3] Context result 3 [11] Context result 11 [13] Context result 13

Based on the context provided, it appears that you are looking for information on diagnostic tests related to angioid streaks.

Angioid streaks are a rare condition characterized by the appearance of thin, branching lines or streaks in the retina. These streaks can be associated with various systemic conditions, including pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), a genetic disorder that affects the skin, eyes, and cardiovascular system.

Diagnostic Tests:

Several diagnostic tests can help confirm the presence of angioid streaks and identify any underlying systemic conditions:

• Ophthalmoscopy: A comprehensive eye examination using an ophthalmoscope to visualize the retina and detect the characteristic streaks.
• Fundus photography: High-resolution images of the retina can be taken to document the appearance of angioid streaks.
• Fluorescein angiography (FA): This test involves injecting a fluorescent dye into a vein, which is then visualized as it passes through the blood vessels in the retina. FA can help identify any abnormalities in blood vessel structure or function associated with angioid streaks.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): OCT is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses low-coherence interferometry to produce high-resolution images of the retina. It can be used to assess the thickness and integrity of the retinal layers, as well as detect any abnormalities in blood vessel structure or function.
• Genetic testing: Genetic testing may be recommended to identify genetic mutations associated with PXE or other systemic conditions that may be linked to angioid streaks.

Additional Tests:

In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out underlying systemic conditions or assess the severity of angioid streaks. These may include:

• Blood tests: Blood tests can help identify any systemic conditions associated with angioid streaks, such as anemia or vitamin deficiencies.
• Imaging studies: Imaging studies, such as X-rays or CT scans, may be ordered to evaluate the extent of retinal damage or assess for any other potential complications.

It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional, preferably an ophthalmologist or a medical geneticist, to determine the most appropriate diagnostic tests and treatment plan for your specific condition.

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are several treatment options available for angioid streaks, including:

• Photocoagulation: This is a laser-based treatment that can be used to destroy unwanted blood vessels in the eye. [9][10]
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT): This treatment combines light energy and photosensitizing medicines to target and treat the affected blood vessels. [9][10]
• Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications: These are currently considered the most effective treatment for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with angioid streaks. [3][7][11]

It's worth noting that the treatment approach may vary depending on factors such as the location of the lesions near or away from the fovea, and whether CNV has developed. [14]

In addition to these treatments, it's also mentioned that protective eyewear can be used to prevent future trauma and enhance overall outcomes in patients with angioid streaks. [6][11]

It's also worth mentioning that MicroAcupuncture is one of the few treatment options available for vision loss from Angioid Streaks, although its effectiveness may vary. [5]

The differential diagnosis of angioid streaks involves identifying other conditions that may present similarly to this condition. Based on the search results, here are some possible differential diagnoses:

• Normal retinal vessels: In some cases, normal retinal vessels can be mistaken for angioid streaks (1).
• Myopic lacquer cracks: These are mechanical breaks of the retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch membrane, and choriocapillaris complex that have healed and are found in highly myopic eyes (2). They can be confused with angioid streaks due to their similar appearance.
• Central serous retinopathy: This condition involves the accumulation of fluid under the retina, which can cause a range of symptoms including visual disturbances. It may be mistaken for angioid streaks due to its similar presentation (10).
• Choroidal rupture: This is a tear in the choroid layer of the eye, which can cause bleeding and other complications. It may be confused with angioid streaks due to its similar appearance on fundoscopy (10).
• Exudative (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration: This condition involves the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, which can cause vision loss. It may be mistaken for angioid streaks due to its similar presentation (10).

It's worth noting that while these conditions may present similarly to angioid streaks, they have distinct underlying causes and require different treatments.

References: 1 - The following list includes the [2] differential diagnoses of angioid streaks: Normal retinal vessels. 2 - These cracks are mechanical breaks of the retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch membrane, and choriocapillaris complex that have healed and are found in the posterior pole of highly myopic eyes caused by stretching of the coats [3]. 10 - Differential Diagnoses. Central serous retinopathy. Choroidal Rupture. Choroidal sclerosis. Exudative (Wet) Age-Related Macular Degeneration [10].