What is Best's Disease?
Best disease, also known as vitelliform macular dystrophy, is an inherited condition that affects the retinas in the eyes, specifically the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. This degeneration can lead to problems with central vision, affecting your ability to see things directly in front of you, although it usually does not impact peripheral (side) vision.
The condition has two main types: the classic form, which typically manifests in childhood, and an adult-onset form that usually develops between the ages of 40 and 60.
How Common Is Best Disease?
The prevalence of Best disease is not precisely known. Estimates vary, with some studies suggesting it affects approximately 1 in 16,500 to 1 in 21,000 people, while others estimate it may affect 1 in 15,000 or even as many as 1 in 10,000 individuals.
Stages of Best Disease
Best disease progresses through six stages:
1. Stage I - Previtelliform: No symptoms are present, and there is no accumulation of yellow material under the retina.
2. Stage II - Vitelliform: Yellow material, shaped like an egg, starts to collect beneath the retina, though vision may still be unaffected.
3. Stage III - Pseudohypopyon: The yellow material may form a cyst under the retina.
4. Stage IV - Vitelliruptive: The material may begin to damage retinal cells, potentially causing noticeable changes in vision.
5. Stage V - Atrophic: The yellow material disappears, but it leaves behind scars and damaged retinal cells. Some researchers consider this the final stage of Best disease.
6. Stage VI - Choroidal Neovascularization (CNV): In about 20% of cases, new blood vessels form in the choroid, the tissue layer between the retina and the sclera (the white of the eye). These vessels may leak, leading to worsening vision. There is some debate among researchers as to whether CNV is the final stage of Best disease or a complication of the disease.
Symptoms of Best Disease:
Best disease is often discovered during an eye exam, sometimes before any symptoms appear. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Blurred vision
- Central vision problems, while side vision remains unaffected
- Metamorphopsia (seeing distorted shapes, such as wavy lines instead of straight ones)
- Severe vision loss
- Differences in vision or vision loss between the two eyes
Causes of Best Disease:
Best disease is a genetic condition caused by an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. This means that only one parent needs to carry the altered gene to pass it on to their children, and each child has a 50% chance of inheriting the condition. The gene involved in Best disease is the same gene that can be affected in some types of retinitis pigmentosa, a group of inherited eye disorders.
At Sanjeevan Netralaya Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, Best Disease is treated with great success.
Best’s Disease Ayurvedic Treatment at Sanjeevan Netralaya Ayurvedic Eye Hospital
Best’s Disease, also known as Best Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy, is a genetic eye disorder that affects the macula, leading to progressive vision loss. At Sanjeevan Netralaya Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, we offer a specialized Best’s Disease Ayurvedic Treatment aimed at managing the progression of this condition and improving visual outcomes.
Our Ayurvedic treatment approach focuses on utilizing natural herbal formulations and Ayurvedic medicines that are known to nourish the eyes, improve retinal health, and support the macula's function. By enhancing the body's natural healing mechanisms, our treatment helps in slowing down the progression of macular degeneration associated with Best’s Disease.
Sanjeevan Netralaya is recognized for its unique and effective approach to treating eye conditions that have limited options in conventional medicine. Our Best’s Disease Ayurvedic Treatment is designed to be gentle yet effective, offering hope to those suffering from this challenging condition.
Contact us today to learn more about how our Best’s Disease Ayurvedic Treatment can help manage your condition and improve your quality of life.