Rubeosis

Rubeosis is a medical term that describes an abnormal proliferation of capillaries, essentially the formation of new blood vessels. This process, also known as neovascularization, occurs in response to a lack of oxygen in a particular tissue. When tissues are deprived of adequate blood supply, they release chemical signals that stimulate the growth of new blood vessels to try and restore oxygenation. While this is a natural healing response in some circumstances, in others it can lead to pathological conditions.

One of the most well-known examples of rubeosis is in the context of diabetic retinopathy. In this condition, high blood sugar levels damage the blood vessels in the retina. The resulting oxygen deprivation triggers the formation of new, abnormal blood vessels on the surface of the retina. These fragile vessels can bleed, causing vision loss and scar tissue formation, which can further distort vision and lead to retinal detachment.

Rubeosis can also occur in other conditions affecting blood flow. For instance, it can be seen in certain types of cancer, where tumors require a rich blood supply to grow and metastasize. Ischemic heart disease, where the heart muscle is not receiving enough oxygen, can also lead to neovascularization in an attempt to improve blood flow. The treatment of rubeosis often depends on the underlying cause and may involve therapies aimed at controlling the underlying condition, laser treatment to destroy abnormal blood vessels, or medications to inhibit their growth.