Familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) is a genetic eye disorder that affects the development of blood vessels in the retina. It is characterized by abnormal growth of blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems such as retinal detachment and blindness. The condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive pattern, meaning that a child only needs to inherit one copy of the defective gene from one parent to develop the disorder.
There is currently no cure for FEVR, and treatment is focused on managing the symptoms and complications of the condition. However, early detection and intervention can help prevent vision loss and improve the prognosis for individuals with FEVR. Treatment options may include laser therapy to prevent retinal detachment, as well as surgical intervention to repair retinal damage.
Health Tips: Individuals with a family history of FEVR should undergo regular eye exams to monitor for signs of the condition. It is important to work closely with an ophthalmologist who is familiar with the disorder to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Protecting the eyes from injury and avoiding activities that can increase the risk of retinal detachment, such as contact sports, can also help prevent complications associated with FEVR.
