Radiation retinopathy as an experimental model for ischemic proliferative retinopathy and rubeosis iridis
We produced radiation retinopathy in capuchin monkeys and studied them with fluorescein angiography and light and electron microscopy. The animals were followed up from ten days to 3 1/2 years after radiation in order to determine whether this could provide an experimental model for other chronic ischemic-proliferative retinopathies, such as diabetes. The first change detected after radiation was the focal loss of capillary endothelial cells and pericytes. As the areas of acellular capillaries became confluent, cotton-wool spots became visible ophthalmoscopically. These increased in number and then faded away, leaving large areas of retinal capillary perfusion. Histologic studies showed occlusion first of the deeper, smaller retinal vessels and then gradually of the larger vessels. Intraretinal neovascularization as well as apparent recanalization then developed, but no new vessels extended through the internal limiting lamina into the vitreous. Rubeosis iridis with neovascular glaucoma developed 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 years postirradiation, and vitreous aspirate demonstrated a high level of angiogenic factor.
- Research Organization:
- Univ. of California, San Francisco
- OSTI ID:
- 6466496
- Journal Information:
- Am. J. Ophthalmol.; (United States), Vol. 6
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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RADIOINDUCTION
BIOLOGICAL MODELS
CAPILLARIES
ENDOTHELIUM
ISCHEMIA
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BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
BLOOD VESSELS
BODY
BODY AREAS
CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
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560152* - Radiation Effects on Animals- Animals