Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location and the underlying disease causing the neovascularization. Some general examples include:
Vision Changes: Blurred vision, distorted vision, blind spots (especially in AMD).
Pain: Angina (chest pain) if it affects heart vessels.
Swelling: In the eye, bleeding could cause inflammation and swelling.
Other: Symptoms related to the specific organ or tissue affected by the underlying disease (e.g., in cancer, symptoms relate to the tumor's location and size).
Causes
Neovascularization is triggered by an imbalance of pro-angiogenic (blood vessel growth promoting) and anti-angiogenic factors in the body. Common causes include:
Ischemia: Lack of oxygen to tissues, which stimulates the release of factors like VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor).
Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can promote blood vessel growth.
Tumor Growth: Tumors require blood supply to grow and secrete factors to stimulate neovascularization.
Diabetes: High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and lead to neovascularization in the retina (diabetic retinopathy).
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD): A common cause of neovascularization in the eye.
Other: Genetic factors, certain infections, and other diseases can also contribute.
Medicine Used
Treatment focuses on controlling the underlying disease and/or directly inhibiting the formation of new blood vessels. Common medicines used include:
Anti-VEGF Agents: These drugs (e.g., bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept) block VEGF, a key factor in neovascularization. Often used in eye diseases like AMD and diabetic retinopathy. They are commonly administered via intravitreal injection (injection into the eye).
Laser Photocoagulation: A laser is used to destroy abnormal blood vessels. Used in some cases of diabetic retinopathy.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A light-sensitive drug is injected, then activated by a laser to destroy abnormal vessels. Used in some types of AMD.
Steroids: Can reduce inflammation that contributes to neovascularization.
Other: Treatments for the underlying condition (e.g., diabetes management, cancer therapies).
Is Communicable
Neovascularization itself is not communicable. It is a process within the body, not an infectious disease spread from person to person. However, some of the underlying causes could be communicable (e.g. certain infections that may lead to neovascularization).
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause of the neovascularization. Some general recommendations:
Manage Underlying Conditions: Control diabetes, high blood pressure, and other relevant diseases.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection of neovascularization in the eye, especially for those at risk (e.g., diabetics, older adults).
Sun Protection: Wearing sunglasses can help protect against UV damage that can contribute to macular degeneration.
How long does an outbreak last?
Neovascularization isn't an "outbreak" in the traditional sense of an infectious disease. It is a chronic process that can persist for months or years if left untreated. The duration depends on the underlying cause, the severity of the condition, and the effectiveness of treatment. Without treatment, the condition typically worsens over time.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis depends on the location of the neovascularization. Common methods include:
Eye Exam: A comprehensive eye exam, including visual acuity testing, dilated eye exam, and imaging techniques.
Fluorescein Angiography: A dye is injected into the bloodstream, and images are taken to visualize blood vessels in the eye.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): An imaging technique that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina.
CT Angiography/MRI Angiography: Used to visualize blood vessels in other parts of the body.
Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy of the affected tissue may be necessary.
Other: Depending on the suspected underlying cause, other tests may be performed (e.g., blood tests, imaging studies).
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies greatly.
Early Stages: Often asymptomatic or with mild, subtle changes (e.g., slight blurriness in vision).
Progression: Symptoms gradually worsen over time. Vision distortion, blind spots, or pain may develop.
Advanced Stages: Significant vision loss, severe pain, or other complications depending on the affected area. The progression can be rapid or slow, depending on the underlying cause and individual factors.
Important Considerations
Early Detection: Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent or minimize damage caused by neovascularization.
Underlying Cause: Identifying and managing the underlying cause is essential for long-term control.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment approaches vary depending on the location, severity, and underlying cause of the neovascularization.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Research: Neovascularization is an active area of research, with ongoing efforts to develop new and more effective treatments.