What visual appearance is typical of the macula in Best's disease?

In Best's disease, the characteristic visual appearance of the macula is the bilateral yellow "egg-yolk" lesions. This term describes the distinctive, well-defined yellowish lesions that can be observed in the macula. These lesions are due to the accumulation of lipofuscin, a lipid-rich pigment, associated with the degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells.

The "egg-yolk" appearance typically manifests as a yellowish patch that becomes more pronounced with time, and it is a direct consequence of the accumulation of this pigment, which interferes with normal retinal function. This appearance can be a key diagnostic indicator for clinicians when evaluating patients suspected of having Best's disease, especially since it can lead to vision impairment as the condition progresses.

In contrast, conditions associated with white scarring, macular holes, and retinal folds do not exhibit this specific egg-yolk appearance, making the identification of the "egg-yolk" lesions particularly significant in the context of Best's disease diagnosis and management.