Choroidal Hemangioma
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Choroidal hemangioma is a non-cancerous growth made up of blood vessels that forms in the choroid, which is the layer of blood vessels between the retina and the white part of the eye (called the sclera). It can show up as a single, well-defined spot or as a larger, more spread-out area. The diffuse type is sometimes linked to health conditions like Sturge-Weber syndrome. Many people don’t know they have this condition until it’s found during a routine eye exam. However, it’s important to understand it, especially if it starts to affect your vision. Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of NJ proudly offers eye care at four convenient locations: Belleville serving Essex County, Rahway serving Middlesex and Union Counties, Jersey City serving Hudson County, and Union serving Union County.
Dr. Bradford Carter Liva is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in retinal care, with a focus on injectable treatments for macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Understanding Choroidal Hemangioma
The choroid is important because it brings blood and nutrients to the retina, which helps you see. When blood vessels in the choroid grow in an abnormal way, they form a choroidal hemangioma. This may not cause any problems at first, but it can slowly affect your vision over time. Catching it early helps prevent serious issues, protect your sight, and treat any problems before they get worse.
This condition is usually found in young to middle-aged adults. The circumscribed type (a single, round spot) is more common and usually affects just one eye. The diffuse type (more spread out) is rarer and is often seen in people who have other health conditions, like Sturge-Weber syndrome. Our retina specialists recommend regular eye exams to check for changes in your eyes and to treat anything that might affect your vision early.
Symptoms of Choroidal Hemangioma
These vision problems happen because the hemangioma can affect the retina, which is the part of the eye that sends visual signals to the brain. If fluid builds up under the retina or if the retina starts to lift slightly (called a serous retinal detachment), it can disturb how the retina works, leading to these symptoms.
Causes of Choroidal Hemangioma
The exact cause of choroidal hemangioma is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to abnormal development of blood vessels in the eye. This condition is not cancerous and usually grows slowly, if at all.
Management and Treatment Approaches
for Choroidal Hemangioma
Managing a choroidal hemangioma can vary depending on the symptoms present and whether the lesion is causing any visual compromise. Many patients who have a choroidal hemangioma remain asymptomatic and thus may be managed with observation and regular monitoring. However, when the lesion leads to visual disturbances—often due to associated retinal detachment or subretinal fluid, treatment becomes necessary. Our retina specialists consider several treatment options based on the type and extent of the hemangioma. Some of the commonly used approaches are:
Why Quick Checkups Matter
If you notice any of these vision changes, it’s important to see retina specialists as soon as possible. Getting care early can help protect your sight and prevent the problem from getting worse. The good news is that with proper treatment and regular checkups, many people can manage these symptoms and keep their vision stable.
Your Trusted Retina Specialists Serving Central and Northern NJ
Understanding choroidal hemangioma is crucial for maintaining eye health and preventing vision loss. With regular eye exams, our patients can discover conditions like these early, ensuring the best possible outcomes. At Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons of New Jersey, our eye doctors are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and advanced treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. By prioritizing eye health, you empower yourself to safeguard your vision for the future. Experience personalized, expert eye care by scheduling an appointment with our eye doctors in Belleville, Jersey City, Rahway, or Union, NJ.
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