Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (PXE)
Pseudoxanthoma
Elasticum (PXE) is a systemic disease that can
affect the eye. PXE
is not an eye disease, so to speak -- however, its
effects can be seen in the eye. PXE can cause
a weakening, or cracking, of one of the important
layers in the
retina -- Bruch's Membrane.
These "cracks" are called Angioid Streaks.
When angioid streaks occur in Bruch's membrane,
complications such as choroidal
neovascularization can arise.
Choroidal
neovascular membrane (CNVM) is a development of new,
abnormal blood vessels that sprout up into the
layers of the retina. These abnormal vessels
originate in the vascular layer, below the retina.
CNVM blood vessels leak, by nature, and cause
swelling, thickening and even bleeding within the
retina. These affects cause the vision to
weaken or blur.
Although angioid streaks can not be treated, CNVM
can be treated a multitude of ways, including:
Macugen,
Lucentis,
Avastin,
Kenalog,
Photodynamic laser
and traditional laser surgery.
Commonly, a
fluorescein angiogram, a dye study of the
retina, will be used to locate and diagnose leaking
CNVM. Self monitoring
with an Amsler
grid is recommended for patients with angioid
streaks or PXE. Regular
dilated eye exams with
an
ophthalmologist is suggested as well.
More information on PXE can be found at
http://www.pxe.org |
