Coats' Disease. Evaluation of Management

Forty-one patients representing 43 eyes with retinal telangiectasia and subretinal exudates (Coats' Disease) were managed between 1966 and 1980. Thirty-three eyes in 31 patients between 4 and 45 years of age had an average of two quadrants involved with telangiectasia. Of four untreated eyes, three deteriorated and one stabilized. In contrast, of 29 eyes treated with cryotherapy or photocoagulation, eight deteriorated, 15 stabilized, and six improved. Ten patients in the series were under 4 years of age and had more severe disease than older patients. On the average three quadrants were involved with telangiectasia and subretinal exudate. Three untreated eyes rapidly progressed to total retinal detachment with glaucoma. The seven treated children required frequent assessment and repeated treatment. Of these, one stabilized but had no light perception, and the remaining six improved. The authors stress that the disease can be controlled with aggressive treatment. Their treatment methods are described.