Definition of Angioid streaks

Angioid streaks: Tiny breaks in the elastin-filled tissue in the retina in the back of the eye. Angioid streaks are seen in patients with pseudoxanthoma elasticum, a rare disorder of degeneration of the elastic fibers with tiny areas of calcification in the skin, retinae, and blood vessels, and they are visible during an examination using an ophthalmoscope. Angioid streaks can cause blindness.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2255
Last Editorial Review: 3/19/2012