Coats disease is a rare eye condition in which abnormal retinal blood vessels leak fluid and lipids, leading to exudation and possible retinal detachment. It usually affects one eye in young boys but can occur in others.
Underlying Problem
The exact cause is not fully understood but is thought to involve developmental abnormalities of the retinal vessels. These fragile vessels become telangiectatic and aneurysmal, allowing serum and cholesterol‑rich exudates to accumulate under the retina.
- Not typically associated with systemic vascular disease
- Usually sporadic rather than strongly hereditary
- Changes are often confined to one eye
- Severity ranges from mild peripheral leaks to extensive detachment
Presentation and Risk
Children may present with reduced vision, squint, or a white pupillary reflex. Without treatment, progressive exudation can cause chronic detachment, glaucoma, or phthisis of the eye.
- Early diagnosis allows laser or cryotherapy to abnormal vessels
- Advanced cases may require surgery to manage detachment
- Regular follow‑up is essential because disease can reactivate
- Imaging such as fluorescein angiography helps map leaking vessels
