Multifocal choroiditis after allogenic bone marrow transplantation

Eur J Ophthalmol. 2002 Mar-Apr;12(2):135-7. doi: 10.1177/112067210201200210.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the clinical manifestations of multifocal choroiditis presumed to be secondary to allogenic bone marrow transplantation after development of self-tolerance to chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD).

Methods: Case report. A 17-year-old male who received an allogenic bone marrow transplant (BMT) from his HLA-identical sister.

Results: One year after BMT, grade II chronic GVHD developed. Two years later, vision deteriorated to 20/50 R.E. and 20/400 L.E. Ophthalmoscopic examination showed multiple chorioretinal punched-out scars throughout the posterior pole and mid-periphery of both eyes. Fluorescein angiography showed four choroidal neovascular membranes (CNVMs) in the right eye that were surgically removed, and a subfoveal disciform scar in the left eye.

Conclusions: Multifocal choroiditis is a possible complication related to allogenic BMT. It should be included as a late cause of BMT-associated choroidopathy. Surgical removal of vision-threatening CNVMs is a reasonable approach.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Autoimmunity
  • Bone Marrow Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / etiology
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / surgery
  • Choroiditis / etiology*
  • Choroiditis / pathology
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Graft vs Host Disease / etiology
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, T-Cell / therapy
  • Male
  • Transplantation, Homologous
  • Visual Acuity