Retinal infiltrates secondary to metastatic squamous cell carcinoma masquerading as infectious retinitis

Retin Cases Brief Rep. 2014 Fall;8(4):333-5. doi: 10.1097/ICB.0000000000000062.

Abstract

Purpose: This report presents a case of metastatic carcinoma to the retina.

Methods: Retrospective chart review and systematic literature review. The patient was a 78-year-old man with history of small-cell lung cancer and with the development of metastatic carcinoma to the retina.

Results: The review of this case and previous literature reveals that the presentation of retinal metastases can occasionally be misinterpreted as infectious retinitis, which can delay the diagnosis of the disease.

Conclusion: Metastatic carcinoma to the retina is a rare condition, which should be considered in patients who are suspected of having infectious retinopathy and who fail to respond to traditional antimicrobial therapies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / secondary
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology
  • Male
  • Retinal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Retinal Neoplasms / secondary
  • Retinitis / diagnosis*
  • Retrospective Studies