17th August: International Coats Disease Day

August 17 marks the commemoration of a rare disease that causes progressive vision loss, especially in children and young people. It is celebrated as International Coats Disease Day. It is named after the Scottish ophthalmologist who described it in 1908, George Coats. Although it is a chronic disease, in 70% of cases, with proper treatment, it stabilizes. But it is very important that it is diagnosed in the early stages, as it progressively advances. Therefore, immediate attention is also fundamental.

The aim of this international day is to raise awareness and sensitize the public about this rare disease. Also, to provide support to patients and their families.

Coats disease is a chronic process that begins in youth and childhood and develops slowly and progressively, leading to vision loss. This rare disease, which tends to occur more in males than in females, usually manifests with a unilateral loss of vision, with strabismus, and in more advanced stages with retinal detachment. In addition, due to the alteration of the retinal blood vessels, yellowish exudates are produced.

Coats disease in children

Most cases occur between the ages of six and eight years, predominantly affecting boys. It is estimated that 80% of patients present symptoms before the age of 10 years. It is generally not hereditary, although there is a genetic component, but the origin of this disease is still unknown.

Unilaterally (in only one eye), the blood vessels supplying the retina are born weak and do not follow the usual path. They appear to dilate and form small threads, retinal telangiectasia, which can cause bleeding.

Is there a cure for Coats disease?

As it is a chronic condition, there is no cure. In fact, its progression is progressive, although if it is diagnosed at an early stage and treated, it can be stabilized. Treatment will depend on the state of the retina. If it is in stages I and II of the disease, laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy are the main intervention options. Cryotherapy is used to freeze the weak blood vessels so that they stop ejecting fluid into the retina.

Stages III and IV do not respond well to these treatments, but subretinal fluid can be surgically drained and/or antiangiogenics can be used to reduce the formation of new blood vessels.

In those cases where Coats disease is not treated and reaches Stage V, the most advanced stage, the eye loses vision completely. Only medical surveillance and pain control can be continued, and in some cases removal of the eye may be advisable.

Awareness of Coats disease can help improve early detection, management and support for patients and their families. Medical organizations, patient groups and eye health advocates can play a crucial role in promoting awareness of the disease and raising funds for research and the development of more effective therapies.