Selective photocoagulation in XXXX : ten-year follow-up.

@entity1 @entity8721 @entity1713 @entity8038 @entity1939 @entity941
PURPOSE: The diagnostic hallmark of @entity8038 is development of "light bulb" @entity8721 in the retinal periphery, leading to posterior pole intraretinal and subretinal exudation. Even after complete obliteration of all abnormal vessels and resorption of all exudates, follow-up examinations are mandatory for several years. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the charts, pictures and/or @entity941 angiographies of a series of 32 consecutive @entity1 , in which the diagnosis of @entity8038 was made. All @entity1 underwent selective photocoagulation of the @entity8721 using a yellow-dye laser. Efficacy of treatment was monitored with drawings and/or @entity941 angiographies. RESULTS: All our @entity1 had unilateral disease, with macular involvement and exudative @entity1713 . Visual acuity improved in one @entity1 , decreased from light perception to @entity1939 in another, and was unchanged in the remainder. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of anatomical benefits from treatment with a yellow-dye laser (i.e., selective photocoagulation without cryotherapy or drainage) despite the presence of a severe form of @entity8038 . Our young Coats' @entity1 responded quickly to treatment. With successful obliteration of the abnormal vasculature, exudates began to absorb in about 4 to 8 weeks although, in some cases, 10 to 12 months were needed to obtain resolution of the exudative detachment. Poor visual outcome of 20/100 or worse was common. In Coats' @entity1 , the key issue is continuous control and long-term follow-up.
