Subretinal neovascularization and hemorrhages in angioid streaks

PURPOSE: To study the development of subretinal neovascularization and/or subretinal hemorrhages in patients with angioid streaks. METHODS: Fifty two eyes from twenty six patients with angioid streaks were included in our study. The diagnosis of angioid streaks was established by ophthalmoscopic and florescein angiographic features. All the patients underwent a complete ophthalmological study that included an examination of the ocular fundus and a retinography every six months. RESULTS: Subretinial neovascularization was found in 38% in this group of patients. Subretinal hemorrhages, either with or without neovascularization, were found in 59%. CONCLUSIONS: There is no known treatment capable of preventing these conditions from appearing, however the patients should be informed about the risk of subretinal hemorrhages after relatively minor ocular trauma. These results may be helpful in the evaluation, prognosis and surgical planning for patients with angioid streaks.