Macular telangiectasia is a rare condition where abnormal, leaky blood vessels develop near the macula. It can gradually affect central vision in one or both eyes.
Features and symptoms
Changes usually develop slowly and may be subtle at first. Many patients are diagnosed after routine eye imaging.
- Symptoms include blurred reading vision and distortion of straight lines.
- Both eyes are often affected, though one may be worse.
- OCT and angiography show characteristic vessel changes and retinal thinning.
- Some forms are linked with new vessel growth and leakage.
- Peripheral vision usually remains good.
Management and support
Treatment depends on the subtype and presence of new vessels. Supportive care aims to maintain independence even if some sight is lost.
- Anti-VEGF injections may help when abnormal vessels leak.
- There is currently no proven cure for the underlying vessel changes.
- Regular monitoring tracks progression and guides therapy.
- Low-vision aids and lighting improvements assist reading and near tasks.
- Genetic and metabolic research may offer new options in future.
