Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder that affects how red blood cells work.
The leakage from these blood vessels can lead to vision loss.
This article will address symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment for proliferative sickle cell retinopathy.
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Getty Images
Proliferative Sickle Cell Retinopathy Symptoms
For many people, PSR does not have any symptoms.
This bang out of healthcare provider can check for signs of PSR.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become hard and sticky.
These red blood cells die sooner, causing a constant shortage of red blood cells in the body.
Surviving red blood cells can cause blockages in the blood vessels.
The blockages can lead to the growth of irregular blood cells.
These irregular blood cells leak blood behind the retina.
These range from stages 1 to 5.
A retinal detachment is a medical emergency.
This is because these small areas of growth often go away on their own.
If you have sickle cell disease, it’s important to maintain your treatments to help prevent further problems.
PSR Prognosis
The prognosis (likely outcomes) for PSR will depend on the stage.
Summary
Proliferative sickle cell retinopathy is an eye condition that is because of sickle cell disease.
It may not have any symptoms, but it can cause vision loss at its advanced stages.
Eye doctors can diagnose PSR with several types of imaging.
Treatment may include lasers, surgery, and the use of drugs injected into the eye.
PSR is just one way that sickle cell disease can affect the body.
Maintain recommended checkups with your healthcare team to better manage your sickle cell disease.
Consistent visits can help identify any emerging problems earlier, before they become advanced.
A Word From Verywell
Having an eye condition that can cause vision loss is scary.
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.Sickle cell retinopathy.
Akhter M, Latting MW, Scott AW, et al.Management of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.
American Society of Retina Specialists.Sickle cell retinopathy.
Sambhara D.Sickle cell retinopathy.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Columbia University Department of Ophthalmology.Sickle cell proliferative retinopathy.
