Call
Chat for Appointment
Patient Reports / LoginEales Disease: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Vompolu Kamakshi Bhaskar , Ophthalmologists
Table of Contents
Eales Disease is a rare idiopathic retinal vascular disorder characterized by inflammation of the peripheral retinal veins (periphlebitis), retinal ischemia, and abnormal new blood vessel formation. It most commonly affects young adults and can lead to recurrent vitreous hemorrhages, blurred vision, floaters, and, in severe cases, permanent vision loss.
Although the exact cause is unknown, it has been associated with an immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis in some individuals. Early diagnosis and appropriate ophthalmic treatment are important to preserve vision, prevent complications, and improve long-term outcomes..
What are the Symptoms of Eales Disease?
Eales disease often begins without noticeable symptoms, making early detection challenging. However, as the condition progresses, several signs and symptoms may emerge:
Stage 1: Inflammatory Stage
- Floaters: Patients may experience the appearance of small, dark shapes floating in their field of vision.
- Blurred Vision: Inflammation of the retinal veins can cause vision to become hazy or blurry.
- Mild Discomfort: Some individuals report minor discomfort or a sensation of pressure within the eye.
Stage 2: Occlusive Stage
- Visual Field Defects: The occlusion of retinal veins can lead to partial loss of the visual field.
- Night Blindness: Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions is common as the disease progresses.
Stage 3: Proliferative Stage
- Severe Vision Loss: Proliferative changes, including neovascularization and vitreous hemorrhage, can cause significant and sudden vision loss.
- Retinal Detachment: Advanced cases may lead to retinal detachment, a serious complication requiring immediate medical intervention.
What are the Causes of Eales Disease?
The exact etiology of Eales disease remains unknown, though several theories have been proposed. Potential contributing factors include:
- Autoimmune Response: Some researchers suggest an autoimmune component, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks retinal blood vessels.
- Infectious Agents: Tuberculosis and other infectious agents have been implicated in some cases, though direct causation has not been conclusively established.
- Genetic Predisposition: Genetic factors may play a role, given the disease's tendency to cluster within certain populations.
When to See a Doctor for Eales Disease?
Individuals with sudden floaters, blurred vision, flashes of light, or unexplained vision loss should consult a Retina Specialist or Ophthalmologist immediately.
You should see a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent floaters or blurred vision
- Reduced vision in one or both eyes
- Episodes of painless visual disturbance
Seek immediate medical attention if you:
- Develop sudden severe vision loss
- Notice a curtain-like shadow over your vision
- Experience symptoms suggesting retinal detachment or massive vitreous hemorrhage
These symptoms may indicate serious retinal complications requiring urgent ophthalmic treatment.
How is Eales Disease Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Eales disease involves a multifaceted approach, combining clinical examination with specialized imaging techniques. Key diagnostic methods include:
Clinical Examination
- Visual Acuity Test: Assessing the sharpness of vision to detect any deficits.
- Fundoscopy: Direct examination of the retina using an ophthalmoscope to identify signs of inflammation, occlusion, or neovascularization.
Imaging Techniques
- Fluorescein Angiography: An essential tool for visualizing retinal blood flow and identifying areas of occlusion or leakage.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, aiding in the detection of structural changes and fluid accumulation.
Laboratory Tests
- Blood Tests: Screening for underlying conditions such as tuberculosis or autoimmune disorders that may contribute to the disease.
- Tuberculin Skin Test: To rule out tuberculosis as a potential causative factor.
What are the Treatment for Eales Disease?
The treatment for Eales disease aims to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and preserve vision. Depending on the stage and severity of the condition, several therapeutic approaches may be employed:
Medical Management
- Corticosteroids: Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce retinal inflammation in the early stages of the disease.
- Anti-Tuberculosis Therapy: In cases where tuberculosis is suspected or confirmed, appropriate anti-tuberculosis treatment is essential.
Surgical Interventions
- Laser Photocoagulation: Laser therapy to seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further neovascularization.
- Vitrectomy: Surgical removal of the vitreous gel in cases of vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment, allowing for better access to the retina and reducing the risk of further complications.
Adjunctive Therapies
- Anti-VEGF Injections: Intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents can help reduce neovascularization and stabilize vision.
- Immunosuppressive Agents: In cases with a suspected autoimmune component, immunosuppressive medications may be considered to control the underlying immune response.
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Consult Eales Disease Doctors Today
How can Eales Disease be Prevented?
Given the idiopathic nature of Eales disease, specific preventive measures are challenging to delineate. However, maintaining overall eye health and regular ophthalmic check-ups can aid in early detection and management. Additional preventive strategies include:
- Managing Systemic Conditions: Controlling underlying health issues such as tuberculosis or autoimmune disorders that may contribute to the disease.
- Avoiding Smoking: Smoking cessation is crucial, as smoking can exacerbate retinal vascular conditions.
- Healthy Lifestyle: Adopting a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can support overall vascular health.
What is the Recovery Process for Eales Disease?
Recovery depends on the stage and severity of the condition and the treatment received.
- Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist.
- Monitoring for recurrence or complications.
- Adherence to medications and treatment plan.
- Vision may improve or stabilize with timely treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the symptoms of Eales disease?
Symptoms include floaters, blurry vision, and in severe cases, partial or complete vision loss.
2. What causes Eales disease?
The exact cause is unknown but it may be associated with tuberculosis or inflammation of retinal blood vessels.
3. How is Eales disease treated?
Treatment includes corticosteroids, laser photocoagulation, and surgery (vitrectomy) to restore vision.
4. How is Eales disease diagnosed?
Diagnosed through eye exams and imaging tests like fluorescein angiography to detect retinal blood vessel abnormalities.
5. Can Eales disease be prevented?
Prevention focuses on early diagnosis and managing any associated infections, such as tuberculosis.
