MULTIMODAL IMAGING OF CHOROIDAL AND OPTIC DISK VESSELS NEAR OPTIC DISK PITS

Congenital optic disc pits and optic disc pit maculopathy: a review

Optic disc pits are a rare but significant anomaly of the optic nerve head that can lead to visual impairment and associated complications. These pits are characterized by a small, oval-shaped depression in the disc, which can cause fluid accumulation and subsequent damage to the adjacent retina. Although the etiology and pathogenesis of optic disc pits are not fully understood, several theories have been proposed, including abnormal embryonic development and degenerative changes. Diagnosis is typically made through a comprehensive eye examination, including a dilated fundus exam and optical coherence tomography. Management options vary depending on the severity of the condition and associated complications, ranging from observation to surgical intervention.

Optic Pit Maculopathy: Clinical Features and Management Options

Purpose of Review

In this article, we review the pathogenesis, clinical features, imaging modalities and latest management options for optic pit maculopathy (OPM).

Recent Findings

The pathogenesis of OPM remains to be unclear, but imaging tools such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography are enhancing our knowledge. Observation continues to be the best management strategy for patients with good visual acuity, and many cases have demonstrated spontaneous resolution. For more advanced, progressive vision loss, treatment options involving vitrectomy can be considered and discussed with the patient. Supplementary techniques to vitrectomy have been reported in small studies with relative success such as glial tissue peeling, inverted internal limiting membrane flap, optic pit plugging, and retinal fenestration.

Summary

While there are multiple treatment options available for OPM, there is no consensus on the technique and surgical timing. Individual patient factors and the risks-benefits of treatment must be taken into account in guiding management. Larger clinical trials will further assist in decision making for treating OPM.

Pre- and juxtapapillary arterial loops in eyes with tilted disc syndrome and inferior staphyloma

Purpose

To report and discuss the association between pre- or juxtapapillary arterial loops and tilted disc syndrome (TDS).

Observations

Three patients, aged 43–59 years, with both conditions were examined in a tertiary referral center, and underwent fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and/or OCT-angiography. They all presented with a typical inferior staphyloma associated with TDS and anomalies of insertion of retinal vessels. The vascular malformation consisted in one acquired arterial loop or cilioretinal collateral circulation occurring after central artery occlusion, and two more complex pre- and juxtapapillary arterial loops. In all cases, the vascular loops extended inferiorly, in the area of the staphyloma.

Conclusion and importance

We hypothesized that the local anatomical changes in the peripapillary area, observed in eyes with TDS and inferior staphyloma, could have promoted the occurrence and/or extent of the arterial loops.