Retinal vasculature remodeling in a case of systemic lupus erythematosus vaso-occlusive retinopathy

Retin Cases Brief Rep. 2014 Winter;8(1):77-82. doi: 10.1097/ICB.0000000000000009.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus vaso-occlusive retinopathy illustrating vascular remodeling over 4 years of follow-up.

Methods: Observational case report of one patient.

Results: A 12-year-old previously healthy girl presented with profound vision loss to 20/800 in both eyes. Her medical workup, neuro-imaging, and ophthalmic examination were consistent with coexistent central nervous system systemic lupus erythematosus and vaso-occlusive systemic lupus erythematosus retinopathy. At 15 months after presentation, retinal vasculature remodeling was evident along with severe macular atrophy. By 4 years after presentation, retinal neovascularization developed that was successfully treated with photocoagulation.

Conclusion: We describe a case of systemic lupus erythematosus vaso-occlusive retinopathy illustrating vascular remodeling over 4 years of follow-up.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Disease Progression
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Retinal Artery Occlusion / etiology*
  • Retinal Degeneration / etiology
  • Retinal Neovascularization / etiology*