Juxtafoveal Telangiectasis

What is Idiopathic Juxtafoveal Telangiectasis?

Idiopathic Juxtafoveal Telangiectasis, also known by the acronym JFT, is a condition of the eye which involves abnormal development in the blood vessels that form in the center of your retina (the fovea). The fovea is the area responsible for reading and deciphering others’ faces, as it allows your vision to be as sharp as possible.

What are the most common causes of JFT? 

When these abnormal blood vessels occur in your fovea, they may branch out abnormally as well. This causes fluid (or in some cases blood) to leak into your retina, causing damage to the area and affecting its ability to detect light. There are three “types” of JFT, but most patients are affected by JFT Type 2.

Researchers are still learning more every day about JFT, but for most patients, the exact cause of this condition is unknown (idiopathic). In fact, in the eyes of many patients who struggle with JFT, the small abnormal blood vessels that define the condition -- also known as telangiectasias -- are not visible in the retina themselves. If you have JFT, Dr. Brown will instead recognize the retinal damage caused by the telangiectasias.

What are some common JFT symptoms?

Some of the most common symptoms of JFT include:

• Metamorphopsia, a condition in which straight lines appear wavy in front of you or you may see nothing in your central area of vision.
• Blurry vision
• Increased difficulty reading
• Issues with your field of vision in one or both eyes

In some cases, Dr. Brown may find evidence of JFT before any symptoms have presented at all. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown as soon as possible.

Who is most at risk for JFT?

As we’ve said before, the definitive cause of JFT is unknown to researchers at this time; however, there are several factors that can put you at an increased risk for this condition. These factors are:

• Being older than the age of 40
• Living with Type 2 diabetes 
• Being pre-diabetic

It is important to note that JFT seems to affect patients equally regardless of gender and that the problem tends to affect both eyes instead of just one.

At Infinity Retina, we always recommend that our patients first address any underlying conditions or factors that could be contributing to JFT, including diabetes.

What is the best treatment for Juxtafoveal Telangiectasis? 

While some cases of JFT will result in permanent vision loss, Dr. Brown can provide successful treatment if blood and fluid are still present at the time of diagnosis. Dr. Brown can administer an injection of anti-VEGF medication into your eye, or provide laser treatment directly to your retina. 

Each patient is unique, and Dr. Brown will work directly with you to determine the treatment plan that suits your needs best.