Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) can lead to serious vision complications if not properly managed. Listed practices with Specialty Vision offer specialized care to address PCV and support your eye health comprehensively.
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) is an eye condition that affects the deep blood vessels in the choroid, the layer beneath the retina. It is marked by the presence of polyp-like swellings, small, balloon-shaped dilations, that form on abnormal branching blood vessels. These changes can cause damage to the retinal pigment epithelium and nearby tissues, sometimes leading to fluid leakage or bleeding under the retina.
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) affects a wide range of people, though it is most commonly seen in adults between the ages of 50 and 65. While earlier reports suggested a higher prevalence among middle-aged Black women, more recent data show that both men and women across different ethnicities can develop the condition.
The exact cause of PCV isn’t fully understood, but it is believed to stem from abnormal changes in the choroidal blood vessels, the network beneath the retina. In PCV:
PCV can be subtle in its early stages, but certain signs and symptoms may point to its presence. Patients often notice changes in their vision that gradually worsen over time.
During a detailed retinal exam, eye specialists may detect:
Treating PCV focuses on reducing abnormal blood vessel growth and fluid leakage to preserve vision. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, strong clinical evidence supports a combination of therapies for best outcomes.
In rare cases, when the lesions are small and located away from the central vision, traditional laser therapy may be used to seal leaking vessels.
If you're experiencing vision changes or have concerns about Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy, don't hesitate to reach out. Find a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you listed with Specialty Vision today for a thorough examination and tailored management options.
Managing PCV requires long-term care. Even after initial treatment, patients need regular eye exams and imaging tests (such as OCT and ICGA) to monitor for:
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy is a condition that can exhibit a range of complications depending on the severity and extent of the disease process. One of the more significant concerns is the development of subretinal fibrosis. This occurs following the resolution of acute serosanguineous events and may result in lasting pigment epithelial changes, including hyperplasia and atrophic degeneration. While these changes are worrisome, studies have shown that even in patients with prolonged disease, timely intervention can halt the progression of vision decline.
Other complications may include:
Frequent bleeding under the retina can lead to ongoing visual disturbances.
Leakage from the abnormal vessels often results in fluid accumulation, which may distort the normal retinal architecture.
Over time, the healing process can produce scar tissue that may compromise retinal function, particularly if the macula is involved.
If you're experiencing vision changes or have concerns about Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy, don't hesitate to reach out. Find a top optometrist or ophthalmologist near you listed with Specialty Vision today for a thorough examination and tailored management options.
Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy (PCV) affects vision severely. Discover symptoms, causes, and treatment options from top eye care specialists.
