Foveal hemorrhage in an immunocompetent patient with visceral leishmaniasis

Abstract

Objective: To report a case of foveal and macular intraretinal hemorrhages in an immunocompetent male patient with visceral leishmaniasis.

Case report: An immunocompetent, 42 year-old male, presented with progressive visual loss and metamorphopsia in his right eye. The fundus examination showed a foveal round yellow lesion and intraretinal hemorrhages in the macula. The patient was hospitalized with fever, anorexia, weight loss, hepatosplenomegaly, and progressive anemia. Laboratory studies were conducted and a positive test for leishmaniasis and hepatitis A was reported. Treatment was begun with amphotericin B 50mg/day up to a total dose of 1400mg.

Conclusion: Bilateral retinal hemorrhages in an endemic country could suggest the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis.

Keywords: Estado inmunocompetente; Foveal hemorrhage; Hemorragia foveal; Hemorragias intrarretinales; Immunocompetent status; Intraretinal hemorrhages; Leishmaniasis visceral; Visceral leishmaniasis.