It can be detected with diagnostic tests that evaluate eye structure.

Surgery, steroid injections, and emerging treatments may sometimes help to preserve vision.

This article describes MacTel2 and what you could expect if you have this eye disease.

A person with gray hair undergoing an eye exam

Drazen Zigic / Getty Images

Risk factors include:

Telangiectasiadescribes the overgrowth of tiny blood vessels.

They can develop anywhere in the body, including the eyes.

Sometimes, MacTel2 doesnt cause symptoms in the early stages.

Andrew Greenberg, MD

As the condition worsens, it can affect your ability to read or drive.

Getting treatment and using vision aids can help you adapt and see more clearly.

A From Verywell

Patients with macular telangiectasia are usually diagnosed at an annual exam.

They are usually asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis and need no treatment.

Screening for MacTel2

An eye exammay detect vision loss or identify changes in your macula.

How Is Macular Degeneration Different From Macular Telangiectasia?

Macular degenerationis a very common cause of adult vision loss.

The most well-established treatment option is eye surgery.

Supplements used include lutein, meso-zeaxanthin, andzeaxanthinsupplements, which might contribute to a healthy macular structure.

Vision Aids and Support

Living with vision losscan pose many serious challenges affecting your daily life.

You will need to work with healthcare professionals who can offer you recommendations regarding vision correction.

Your healthcare team will also give you practical tips for living with vision loss.

The recommendations will depend on the severity of your vision loss and your lifestyle.

They are also being studied as potential treatments for MacTel2.

Implantation of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) is another area of ongoing research that is showing potential benefits.

This is a substance that may promote the growth and repair of cells in the macula.

Early diagnosis is important because this condition can worsen and lead to severe vision loss.

It’s important to have routine eye exams to detect and treat any eye problems early.

See a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your vision or your eyes.

2017;37(12):2238-2247. doi:10.1097/IAE.0000000000001450