| Suite 1020 | |
| Phone: | (215) 928-3300 |
| Fax: | (215) 825-2443 |
| Director | Gary Brown, MD |
| Co-Director: | David H. Fischer, MD |
| Co-Director: | Arunan Sivalingham, MD |
| Clinic Hours: | Monday through Friday 8 am — 4:30 pm |
Cotton-Wool Spots
Cotton-wool spots are tiny white areas in the retina, the layer of light-sensing cells lining the back of the eye. Caused by small vessel occlusions. They usually disappear without treatment and do not threaten vision. They are, however, and indicator of a possible medical condition, which may need treatment, and therefore a work-up is indicated.
Diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) is the most common cause of cotton-wool spots. The presence of more than eight cotton-wool spots has been associated with a higher risk of the more severe form of diabetic retinopathy known as proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
Cotton-wool spots are also a common sign of infection with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Their presence can be an important sign of the severity of HIV-related disease.