Coats disease
Pronunciation: KOATS dih-ZEEZ
Retinal vascular disorder characterized by abnormal capillary development and exudative retinal detachment.
Full Definition
Coats disease is a rare, progressive retinal vascular disorder characterized by abnormal development and leakage of retinal capillaries, leading to extensive lipid exudation and exudative retinal detachment. The condition typically affects young males unilaterally and can range from mild peripheral vascular anomalies to severe cases with total retinal detachment and secondary glaucoma. The hallmark finding is extensive yellow exudative material beneath the retina, often accompanied by dilated and tortuous retinal vessels. Early stages may be asymptomatic, but advanced disease can cause severe vision loss or painful secondary glaucoma requiring enucleation. Treatment options include laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy, or anti-VEGF therapy for earlier stages, while advanced cases may require vitreoretinal surgery or, in end-stage disease, enucleation.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Scottish ophthalmologist George Coats; capitalize as proper noun.
In Context
- "The child presented with unilateral Coats disease showing extensive subretinal exudation." — Pediatric ophthalmology case presentation
- "Early intervention with laser therapy helped stabilize the Coats disease progression." — Treatment outcome report