Retinal Hemorrhages During Examination for Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Form of Ocular Decompression Retinopathy

J Vitreoretin Dis. 2020 Aug 17;5(1):72-76. doi: 10.1177/2474126420936481. eCollection 2021 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Purpose: Posterior segment hemorrhage occurring during or shortly after examination (PSHE) for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a very rare complication. We present a case of and review the literature on PSHE during ROP examination to better characterize this complication.

Methods: A case report is presented, followed by a review of similar cases in the literature.

Results: An infant undergoing laser photocoagulation for ROP rapidly developed diffuse intraretinal hemorrhages in his right eye during the laser and after a Valsalva event while he was intubated under general anesthesia. The hemorrhages resolved within 1 week. This presentation was similar to those in previously reported cases.

Conclusions: PSHE in ROP usually consists of multiple, diffuse, intraretinal hemorrhages that occur within minutes of ROP examination and resolve within a few weeks without any other ocular findings or sequelae. PSHE seems to represent a form of ocular decompression retinopathy.

Keywords: macula; pediatric retina; retina; retinal vascular disease; retinopathy of prematurity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports