Idiopathic Parafoveal Telangiectasia (PFT)

We specialize in the medical and surgical treatment and management of sight threatening diseases affecting the retina, vitreous and macula.  We have years of experience in treating the following conditions.

• Age Related Macular Degeneration
• Central Serous Retinopathy/Chorioretinopathy
• Choroidal Melanoma
• Choroidal Nevus
• Congenital Hypertrophy of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium (CHRPE)
• Cystoid Macular Edema
• Diabetic Retinopathy
• Dislocated Intraocular Lens
• Flashes, Floaters and Posterior Vitreous Detachment
• High Blood Pressure and Your Retina
• Idiopathic Parafoveal Telangiectasia (PFT)
• Inherited and Genetic Retinal Diseases
• Intraocular Infections (Endophthalmitis)
• Intraocular Inflammation/Uveitis
• Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
• Macular Pucker/Epiretinal Membrane
• Macular Hole
• Ocular Histoplasmosis Syndrome
• Peripheral Retinal Pathology Including Lattice Degeneration, Retinoschisis, and Masses
• Retained Lens Fragments
• Retinal Artery Occlusion
• Retinal Detachment
• Retinal Tears
• Retinal Vein Occlusion
• Vitreomacular Traction Syndrome

Idiopathic Parafoveal Telangiectasia (PFT)

 

What is Idiopathic Parafoveal Telangiectasia (PFT)?

The fovea forms the center of the macula, the structure that lies along the back of the eye and is responsible for clear, detailed central vision. Parafoveal (“para-” = near), also known as perifoveal (“peri-” = around) telangiectasia or macular telangiectasia is an uncommon disease in which the capillaries and small blood vessels surrounding the fovea are abnormal and can cause vision loss. PFT can affect one or both eyes; however, it most commonly affects both. In some cases, the capillaries may leak, causing an accumulation of fluid called macular edema that can cause further decrease in vision. In other cases, abnormal blood vessels may grow, a process called choroidal neovascularization, which can leak fluid or blood into and under the retina, leading to scarring of the central retina and ultimately loss of vision if left untreated.

Am I at risk for developing PFT?

Parafoveal Telangiectasia usually occurs in individuals in their 50s and above. Often, these patients also have high blood pressure or diabetes. Lastly, some may have a history of undergoing radiation to the head and neck to treat cancer. Most commonly, the cause is unknown, or “idiopathic,” without a clear link to other conditions.

How is this condition diagnosed and treated?

A good way to detect PFT in its early stages is to look for the common symptoms. The most common symptom of PFT is gradual, progressive blurred central vision in one or both eyes. Other symptoms such as distorted vision or “blank spots” may occur. If you are having any of these symptoms, or notice a dramatic change in your vision, be sure to contact your eye doctor. Your eye doctor may then refer you to a retina specialist who will utilize a dilated eye exam, Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT), and/or fluorescein angiography to visualize the affected structures of your eye. Treatment options include injection of specialized medications such as an anti-VEGF chemical (halts the growth of abnormal blood vessels) or other medications to improve your vision. Additionally, laser treatment is sometimes recommended depending on how your vision is affected. PFT rarely causes severe loss of vision and often can be managed with clinical observation.