S A Gartner | PubMed Health

PubMed1982

Choroidal neovascular membranes and senile macular choroidal degeneration: their association in disciform macular degeneration.

Senile macular choroidal degeneration (SMCD) is responsible for the majority of cases of new central vision loss in the over-fifty population. It is also the single largest cause of legal blindness in the United States. Choroidal neovascular membranes are frequently associated with SMCD and initiate a disciform process that may lead to profound central vision loss. Clinically, it is very difficult to visualize actual new vessel membranes without the aid of rapid sequence fluorescein angiography; various clinical signs, however, are indicative of their presence. Recognition of choroidal neovascular membranes is important; certain membranes lend themselves to photocoagulation by the retinal specialist. This treatment may be successful in preventing further severe and permanent visual loss in some individuals. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the mechanisms of disciform macular degeneration, as well as the clinical signs important to the recognition of choroidal neovascular membranes.

Choroid↗

PubMed1980

Sickle cell retinopathy.

Ten percent of North American blacks have one of four forms of sickle cell disease. Eight to nine percent have sickle cell trait (AS disease); One-half to one percent have SThal disease; Four-tenths percent have SS disease; One-tenth to three-tenths percent have SC disease. The SC and SThal forms present with the most frequent and severe ocular manifestations, including proliferative and non-proliferative retinopathies. Approximately 1% of the black population is at risk for serious ocular complications. The purpose of this paper is to familiarize the reader with the retinal signs, transmissibility, and pathophysiology of a high incidence disease. Early recognition and referral results in prolonged visual function if proper therapy is undertaken. A brief overview of ocular therapies is included.

Adult↗