Cottonwoolfläckar

Cottonwoolfläckar, also known as cotton wool spots, are a type of retinal lesion that appears as fluffy white patches on the retina. These spots are characterized by their soft, cotton-like appearance and are typically found in the nerve fiber layer of the retina. They are often a sign of retinal ischemia, meaning that the blood supply to a portion of the retina is reduced.

The presence of cotton wool spots can be indicative of several underlying medical conditions. The most common cause is diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. In this condition, high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina, leading to leakage and the formation of cotton wool spots. Other causes include hypertension (high blood pressure), which can also damage retinal blood vessels, and certain infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS. Less commonly, they can be associated with autoimmune disorders or an embolism to the eye.

Cotton wool spots themselves are usually asymptomatic and do not directly cause vision loss. However, their presence is a significant clinical sign that prompts further investigation into the underlying cause. Diagnosis is made during a routine eye examination using specialized imaging techniques like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying condition, such as controlling blood sugar levels in diabetes or blood pressure in hypertension, to prevent further retinal damage and preserve vision.