About Central areolar choroidal dystrophy

What is Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) is a rare, inherited eye disorder that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It is characterized by a progressive loss of central vision due to the gradual degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid. Symptoms of CACD include blurred vision, difficulty reading, and difficulty recognizing faces. In some cases, patients may also experience night blindness. Treatment for CACD is limited and typically involves the use of low vision aids and other strategies to maximize remaining vision.

What are the symptoms of Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

The symptoms of Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) vary from person to person, but typically include:

-Decreased vision in the central part of the visual field
-Decreased color vision
-Decreased night vision
-Distorted vision
-Blurred vision
-Fading of the central part of the visual field
-A central scotoma (blind spot) in the visual field
-Mild to moderate vision loss
-Mild to moderate metamorphopsia (distortion of straight lines)
-Mild to moderate photophobia (sensitivity to light)

What are the causes of Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) is an inherited eye disorder caused by mutations in the PROM1 gene. It is an autosomal dominant disorder, meaning that only one copy of the mutated gene is necessary for a person to be affected by the disorder. The exact cause of the mutation is unknown.

What are the treatments for Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

The treatments for Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) are aimed at managing the symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. These treatments may include:

1. Low vision aids: These can help improve vision and make everyday tasks easier.

2. Photodynamic therapy: This involves using a laser to reduce the amount of fluid in the eye.

3. Vitrectomy: This is a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous humor from the eye.

4. Intravitreal injections: These injections can help reduce the amount of fluid in the eye.

5. Corticosteroid injections: These injections can help reduce inflammation in the eye.

6. Anti-VEGF injections: These injections can help reduce the amount of fluid in the eye.

7. Oral medications

What are the risk factors for Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

1. Age: Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) is most commonly seen in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40.

2. Genetics: CACD is an inherited disorder, and is caused by mutations in the PROM1 gene.

3. Gender: CACD is more common in males than females.

4. Ethnicity: CACD is more common in individuals of Asian descent.

Is there a cure/medications for Central areolar choroidal dystrophy?

At this time, there is no known cure for Central areolar choroidal dystrophy. However, there are medications that can be used to manage the symptoms of the condition. These medications include topical corticosteroids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Additionally, laser photocoagulation and photodynamic therapy may be used to reduce the risk of vision loss.