Frosted branch angiitis as ocular manifestation of Behçet's disease: unusual case report and literature review

Korean J Ophthalmol. 2013 Dec;27(6):466-9. doi: 10.3341/kjo.2013.27.6.466. Epub 2013 Nov 15.

Abstract

We report an unusual case of unilateral frosted branch angiitis associated with Behçet's disease, including a review of previously reported cases. A 39-year-old male with history of recurrent oral and genital ulcers presented with visual loss in his left eye. Fundus findings demonstrated occlusive retinal vasculitis resembling acute frosted branch angiitis. Laboratory examinations including viral markers revealed no abnormal findings except positive HLA-B51. The patient was treated with systemic steroid and cyclosporine. Six months after presentation, new oral ulcers and pseudofolliculitis appeared, and he was diagnosed with Behçet's disease following rheumatology consultation. During follow-up, there was no change in visual acuity of hand movement, and disc neovascularization developed even after complete panretinal photocoagulation. Ocular manifestations of Behçet's disease can present as unilateral frosted branch angiitis, and may consecutively involve in both eyes. Early immunosuppressive treatment is recommended.

Keywords: Behçet's disease; Frosted branch angiitis; Occlusive retinal vasculitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Behcet Syndrome / complications*
  • Behcet Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Fundus Oculi
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Retinal Artery / pathology*
  • Retinal Vasculitis / diagnosis
  • Retinal Vasculitis / etiology*