Macular Telangiectasia
Clinical Features:
Type 1 MacTel is typically unilateral and features aneurysmal dilatations of capillaries within the macula. Surrounding exudates are common (Fig. 11.2.1). Type 2 MacTel is typically bilateral and features a loss of the temporal juxtafoveal retinal transparency followed by the development of ectatic capillaries in this region (Fig. 11.2.2). Over time, RPE hyperplasia and pigment deposition may occur along with crystal deposits (Fig. 11.2.3).
Figure 11.2.1 Color photograph of MacTel type 1 shows numerous aneurysmal abnormalities of varying size within the temporal macula. There is associated retinal thickening and surrounding hard exudate. The fellow macula was normal in appearance.
Figure 11.2.2 Color photograph of MacTel type 2 shows loss of the foveal reflex with subtle microaneurysmal abnormalities in the temporal parafoveal region. Fine, crystalline deposits in the same region are barely discernable, but could be seen clinically. Similar findings were seen in the fellow eye.
