Current concepts on diffuse choroidal hemangioma in Sturge Weber syndrome

Epileptic seizures as an initial symptom for Sturge‑Weber syndrome type III: A report of two cases

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) type III, a rare neurocutaneous disorder, presents diagnostic challenges due to its variable clinical manifestations. The present study focuses on enhancing the understanding of this syndrome by conducting a detailed analysis of two pediatric cases and providing a comprehensive review of the existing literature. The cases, managed at the Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University (Jinan, China), highlight the diverse clinical presentations and successful management strategies for SWS type III. In the first case, a 4-year-old male patient exhibited paroxysmal hemiplegia, epileptic seizures and cerebral angiographic findings indicative of left pia mater and venous malformation. The second case involved a 2.5-year-old male patient presenting with recurrent seizures and angiographic findings on the right side. Both cases underscore the importance of considering epileptic seizures, acquired and transient hemiplegia and cognitive impairments in the diagnosis of SWS type III. The present study provides insights into the effective use of both pharmacological and surgical interventions, drawing from the positive outcomes observed in these cases. The findings emphasize the need for heightened awareness and a meticulous approach in diagnosing and treating SWS type III, contributing to the better management and prognosis of this condition.

Sturge-Weber syndrome: an update for the pediatrician

BACKGROUND

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a rare congenital neurocutaneous disorder characterized by the simultaneous presence of both cutaneous and extracutaneous capillary malformations. SWS usually presents as a facial port-wine birthmark, with a varying presence of leptomeningeal capillary malformations and ocular vascular abnormalities. The latter may lead to significant neurological and ocular morbidity such as epilepsy and glaucoma. SWS is most often caused by a somatic mutation involving the G protein subunit alpha Q or G protein subunit alpha 11 gene causing various alterations in downstream signaling pathways. We specifically conducted a comprehensive review focusing on the current knowledge of clinical practices, the latest pathophysiological insights, and the potential novel therapeutic avenues they provide.

DATA SOURCES

A narrative, non-systematic review of the literature was conducted, combining expert opinion with a balanced review of the available literature. A search of PubMed, Google Scholar and Embase was conducted, using keywords "Sturge-Weber Syndrome" OR "SWS", "Capillary malformations", "G protein subunit alpha 11" OR "G protein subunit alpha Q".

RESULTS

One of the hallmark features of SWS is the presence of a port-wine birthmark at birth, and forehead involvement is most indicative for SWS. The most common ocular manifestations of SWS are glaucoma and choroidal hemangioma. Glaucoma presents in either in infancy (0-3 years of age) or later in life. Neurological complications are common in SWS, occurring in about 70%-80% of patients, with seizures being the most common one. SWS significantly impacts the quality of life for patients and their families, and requires a multidisciplinary approach for diagnosis and treatment. Currently, no disease-modifying therapies exist, and treatment is mostly focused on symptoms or complications as they arise.  CONCLUSIONS: SWS remains a complex and heterogeneous disorder. Further research is needed to optimize diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, and to translate insights from molecular pathogenesis to clinical practice.

An Update on Multimodal Ophthalmological Imaging of Diffuse Choroidal Hemangioma in Sturge-Weber Syndrome

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is characterized by facial port-wine stains, leptomeningeal hemangiomas, and prominent ocular manifestations such as glaucoma and diffuse choroidal hemangiomas (DCHs). Imaging modalities are critical for diagnosing and longitudinally monitoring DCHs in SWS. Fundus photography is fundamental in assessing both eyes simultaneously, fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography effectively map the retinal and choroidal circulation, and ultrasonography offers essential structural insights into the choroid and retina. NIR imaging reveals subtle retinal pigment changes, often overlooked in standard fundus examination. Enhanced depth imaging spectral domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-SDOCT) and swept-source OCT (SSOCT) improve the visualization of the choroidal-scleral boundary, essential for DCH characterization. The potential of OCT angiography (OCTA) is under exploration, particularly its role in predicting signs of disease progression or worsening, as well as potential new biomarkers such as the choroidal vascularity index (CVI). The present review aims to provide an update on multimodal imaging of DCHs in SWS.

Large extraocular extension of a choroidal melanoma with orbital inflammation

Purpose

To describe an atypical case of a choroidal melanoma presenting with eyelid edema, chemosis, pain and diplopia and demonstrating significant extraocular extension on ultrasonography and neuroimaging.

Observations

A 69-year-old woman presented with a headache, eyelid edema, chemosis and pain in the right eye. Upon subsequent onset of diplopia, MRI of the orbits was performed and demonstrated a predominantly extraocular, intraconal mass with a small intraocular component. She was started on corticosteroids and referred to the ocular oncology service for evaluation. On fundus examination, she was noted to have a pigmented choroidal lesion consistent with melanoma, and ultrasound showed a large area of extraocular extension. Enucleation, enucleation with subsequent radiation and exenteration were discussed, and the patient requested an opinion from radiation oncology. A repeat MRI obtained by radiation oncology demonstrated a decrease in the extraocular component after corticosteroid treatment. The improvement was interpreted as suggestive of lymphoma by the radiation oncologist who recommended external beam radiation (EBRT). Fine needle aspiration biopsy was insufficient for cytopathologic diagnosis, and the patient elected to proceed with EBRT in the absence of a definitive diagnosis. Next generation sequencing revealed GNA11 and SF3B1 mutations, which supported the diagnosis of uveal melanoma and led to enucleation.

Conclusion and Importance

Choroidal melanoma may present with pain and orbital inflammation secondary to tumor necrosis, which may delay diagnosis and decrease the diagnostic yield of fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Next generation sequencing may aid the diagnosis of choroidal melanoma when there is clinical uncertainty and cytopathology is unavailable.

The Choroidal Vascularity Index Versus Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in the Evaluation of the Choroid with a Focus on Age-Related Macular Degeneration

The choroid is the most vascularized structure of the eye and it is fundamental for the trophism of the outer retina. Its proper functioning and homeostasis represent key points in maintaining normal retinal physiology. Choroidal alterations may be implicated in the development and progression of numerous pathologies; therefore, in-depth studies using imaging techniques can be of crucial relevance to understanding the pathophysiology of retinal-choroidal diseases. The advent of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) has enabled the non-invasive study of the choroid in vivo and the most recent development, optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA), allows for the high-resolution visualization of the choriocapillaris and the choroid in regard to vascularization. The choroidal vascularity index (CVI) is a new parameter calculated on SDOCT scans and is defined as the ratio of the luminal area to the total choroidal area. In this review, a study of the choroid using OCTA and CVI will be evaluated in depth and the pros and cons of these two methods will be analyzed, with a particular focus on age-related macular degeneration.

Isolated diffuse choroidal hemangioma without systemic symptoms: a case report

BACKGROUND

Sturge-Weber syndrome is a nonhereditary congenital neurocutaneous syndrome characterized by a distinctive facial capillary malformation,neurological abnormalities, and ocular abnormalities such as glaucoma and choroidal hemangioma.It can be divided into different subtypes according to different clinical manifestations. It is rare for a patient to present with isolated difuse choroidal hemangioma and ipsilateral abnormal conjunctival and episcleral vessels without other systemic symptoms.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a 30-year-old man with isolated diffuse choroidal hemangioma in his right eye without systemic symptoms, such as vascular malformations in the skin or leptomeningeal angiomatosis. The only additional ophthalmic finding was ipsilateral abnormal conjunctival and episcleral vessels without glaucoma. However, there was no evidence of leptomeningeal angiomatosis or port-wine stain on the right side of the face, or glaucoma, which are common clinical manifestations of the Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS).The absence of these characteristic symptoms did not preclude the diagnosis, and the patient could be diagnosed with a particular subtype of SWS.

CONCLUSIONS

This is a rare case of documented isolated difuse choroidal hemangioma with ipsilateral abnormal conjunctival and episcleral vessels without glaucoma which we think it is belonging to a particular subtype of SWS.In addition to the traditional clinical manifestations, more and more atypical clinical manifestations are also accompanied by SWS, which requires our clinicians to continuously discover and report, so as to help more clinicians understand this disease.

Sturge-Weber Syndrome: A Review of Pathophysiology, Genetics, Clinical Features, and Current Management Approache

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a congenital, sporadic, and rare neurocutaneous disorder, characterized by the presence of a facial port-wine birthmark (PWB), glaucoma, and neurological manifestations including leptomeningeal angiomatosis and seizures. It is caused by a postzygotic, somatic, gain-of-function variant of the GNAQ gene, and more recently, the GNA11 gene in association with distinctive clinical features. Neuroimaging can help identify and stratify patients at risk for significant complications allowing closer follow-up; although no presymptomatic treatment has been demonstrated to be effective to date, these patients could benefit from early treatment and/or supportive interventions. Choroid plexus (CP) thickness measurements in brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have a high sensitivity and specificity for early and incipient changes in SWS. In contrast, the absence of pathologic findings makes it possible to rule out associated neurological involvement and leads to periodical observation, with new imaging studies only in cases of new clinical signs/symptoms. Periodic ophthalmological examination is also recommended every 3 months during the first year and yearly afterwards to monitor for glaucoma and choroidal hemangiomas. Treatment for SWS depends on the extent and areas that are affected. These include laser surgery for PWB, anticonvulsants in the case of brain involvement, with either seizures or abnormal EEG, and medical treatment or surgery for glaucoma. Sirolimus has been used in a limited number of patients and appears to be a safe and potentially effective treatment for cutaneous and extra-cutaneous features, however controlled clinical studies have not been carried out. Better knowledge of GNAQ/GNA11 molecular pathways will help to develop future targeted treatments.

The Role of Alpha-Synuclein Deposits in Parkinson's Disease: A Focus on the Human Retina

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by the progressive deterioration of dopaminergic neurons in the central and peripheral autonomous system and the intraneuronal cytoplasmic accumulation of misfolded α-synuclein. The clinical features are the classic triad of tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia and a set of non-motor symptoms, including visual deficits. The latter seems to arise years before the onset of motor symptoms and reflects the course of brain disease. The retina, by virtue of its similarity to brain tissue, is an excellent site for the analysis of the known histopathological changes of PD that occur in the brain. Numerous studies conducted on animal and human models of PD have shown the presence of α-synuclein in retinal tissue. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) could be a technique that enables the study of these retinal alterations in vivo. The objective of this review is to describe recent evidence on the accumulation of native or modified α-synuclein in the human retina of patients with PD and its effects on the retinal tissue evaluated through SD-OCT.

Choroidal Neovascular Membranes in Retinal and Choroidal Tumors: Origins, Mechanisms, and Effects

Choroidal neovascularizations are historically associated with exudative macular degeneration, nonetheless, they have been observed in nevus, melanoma, osteoma, and hemangioma involving the choroid and retina. This review aimed to elucidate the possible origins of neovascular membranes by examining in vivo and in vitro models compared to real clinical cases. Among the several potential mechanisms examined, particular attention was paid to histologic alterations and molecular cascades. Physical or biochemical resistance to vascular invasion from the choroid offered by Bruch's membrane, the role of fibroblast growth factor 2 and vascular endothelial growth factor, resident or recruited stem-like/progenitor cells, and other angiogenic promoters were taken into account. Even if the exact mechanisms are still partially obscure, experimental models are progressively enhancing our understanding of neovascularization etiology. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) over melanoma, osteoma, and other tumors is not rare and is not contraindicative of malignancy as previously believed. In addition, CNV may represent a late complication of either benign or malignant choroidal tumors, stressing the importance of a long follow-up.

Clinical characteristics of infants with port-wine stain and glaucoma secondary to Sturge-Weber Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Sturge-Weber Syndrome (SWS) is a rare disease involving the eye, skin, and brain. Port-wine stain (PWS) and glaucoma are common clinical manifestations. This study analysed the clinical characteristics of infants with PWS and glaucoma secondary to SWS.

METHODS

Children with PWS and glaucoma secondary to SWS were enrolled. Data were extracted from ophthalmic and systemic examination findings. Ocular examinations included intraocular pressure, anterior segment and fundus examination, and ocular A-scan and B-scan ultrasonography.

RESULTS

Fifty-seven patients were included, with a mean age of 9.9 ± 11.9 months, and 34 (59.6%) patients were male. In all, 61 eyes were diagnosed with glaucoma. Forty-one patients (71.9%) had unilateral facial PWS and glaucoma occurred on the same side. Eight patients (14.0%) had Mongolian spots and ten patients (17.5%) had epilepsy. Corneal changes included corneal oedema (n = 36 eyes, 59.0%), corneal opacity (n = 15 eyes, 24.6%), and Haab lines (n = 13 eyes, 21.3%). Mean corneal diameter and thickness in the eyes with glaucoma was larger than those in the unaffected eyes (12.2 ± 0.7 mm vs 10.8 ± 0.6 mm, P < 0.001; 681.2 ± 106.4 µm vs 578.2 ± 58.2 µm, P < 0.001). The eyes with glaucoma had higher IOP and larger axial length and C/D ratio (19.3 ± 6.2 mmHg vs 11.6 ± 4.2 mmHg, P < 0.001; 21.23 ± 1.93 mm vs 19.68 ± 1.61 mm, P < 0.001; and 0.57 ± 0.18 vs 0.24 ± 0.15, P < 0.001). Thirty-three (57.9%) and 25 (43.9%) patients showed diffuse choroidal haemangioma (DCH) and conjunctival/episcleral haemangiomas, respectively. Ten patients (17.5%) showed iris anterior insertion or hyperpigmentation in the anterior chamber angles. Six of them had Mongolian spots at the same time.

CONCLUSIONS

Monocular glaucoma, DCH, and conjunctival/episcleral haemangiomas are common in SWS patients with PWS and glaucoma. Glaucomatous eyes have larger corneal diameter and axial length and thicker cornea. Patients with Mongolian spots have higher incidence of iris anterior insertion or hyperpigmentation in anterior chamber angle.