Multimodal imaging and treatment of Purtscher-like retinopathy

A 52-year-old patient with multiple cardiovascular risk factors referred for unilateral, acute, and painless visual loss. In the fundoscopic image there was significant papillary inflammation with tortuosity at this level and haemorrhages. Ophthalmological examination showed papillary inflammation, macular oedema, and involvement in retinal inner layers. The control fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography angiography showed areas of central and peripheral ischaemia. Given the clinical findings and background of the patient, the diagnosis of Purtscher-like retinopathy was reached and treatment with intravitreal dexamethasone was decided. Purtscher-like retinopathy is a rare entity that occurs in patients with multiple systemic pathologies, but without a traumatic background, which differentiates it from Purstcher's retinopathy. The diagnosis and early intervention are important in the prognosis. There are no therapeutic protocols, but good results have been obtained with intravitreal therapy with dexamethasone.

Purtscher-like retinopathy preceding acute renal failure

CASE REPORT

The case is reported of a 61 year-old woman with Purtscher-like retinopathy associated with acute renal failure. Ophthalmic examination, fluorescein-angiography, and optical coherence tomography were consistent with Purtscher-like retinopathy. Ophthalmic symptoms and signs preceded renal failure. Pancreatitis and other systemic diseases were ruled out. The patient developed a neovascular glaucoma.

DISCUSSION

Purtscher-like retinopathy rarely precedes the associated systemic illness. Early diagnosis based on ophthalmic symptoms may help in the recognition and treatment of the disease, and prevent later complications.