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Coats Disease

Fig. 1 Retinal detachment visible through pupil in patient with Coats Disease.

What is Coats disease?

Coats disease is a congenital abnormality of retinal blood vessels. The dilated vessels leak fluid which may cause exudates to deposit in the retina and possibly lead to retinal detachment [See figures 1 and 2].

Who gets Coats disease?

Coats disease is 3 times more common in boys than in girls and involves 1 eye in 90% of cases. It typically presents in childhood with painless loss of vision or a white pupil. There is no known cause of Coats disease and it is typically nonhereditary.

Fig. 2 Retinal photograph showing hemorrhages and exudates from leaking blood vessels.

How does Coats disease affect vision?

The effect on vision depends on the amount of fluid leaked and the area involved. If little fluid is leaked and the center of the retina is not involved, the vision may be minimally affected. If large amounts of fluid leak and/or the center of the retina is involved, vision consequences may be severe.

How is Coats disease treated?

Treatment may be indicated to prevent progression of the disease. Laser photocoagulation and/or cryotherapy are often utilized to destroy the leaking abnormal blood vessels. Other surgery may be necessary, depending on the severity of the disease.

Continued care is important to monitor for recurrence of the disease. Glasses and patching therapy for amblyopia (lazy eye) are sometimes necessary.

Internet resources

Coats Disease Information for Parents
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