Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography detects retinal findings, including photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment junction abnormalities that are correlated with visual acuity changes in treated patients with Irvine-Gass syndrome.

IntroductionWe describe the long-term effectiveness and tolerability of intravitreal vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor ranibizumab in a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum with bilateral macular choroidal neovascularization secondary to angioid streaks.Case presentationA 54-year-old Caucasian man with history of heart disease presented with visual loss in his right eye. An examination revealed choroidal neovascularization and reduced visual acuity, while no abnormalities were seen in his left eye. He was diagnosed with angioid streaks associated with pseudoxanthoma elasticum. Off-label treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab once a month initiated in December 2007 was discontinued after 3 months due to lack of efficacy. In September 2008, the patient reported reduced visual acuity in his left eye and an examination revealed changes. Left eye treatment was initiated in October 2008 with a loading dose (three consecutive monthly intravitreal injections of ranibizumab 0.5mg/50μL) followed by 0.5mg/50μL followed by treatment as needed until May 2014. After 21 ranibizumab injections, an examination revealed angioid streaks and choroidal neovascularization in both eyes. His right eye showed retinal layer deterioration with outer limiting membrane and photoreceptor inner/outer segment junction involvement. His left eye had a smaller foveal scar, with other areas preserved. Visual acuity was stable in his treated left eye, but had deteriorated in his right eye. Ranibizumab treatment was well tolerated with no adverse events reported.ConclusionsIn the present case, an as-needed regimen of ranibizumab after an initial loading dose, achieved maintenance of visual function and was well tolerated over a period of almost 6 years in a patient with pseudoxanthoma elasticum and high cardiovascular risk. As anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents are associated with increased risk of systemic effects, particularly arterial thromboembolic events, following intravenous administration, the absence of serious thromboembolic or cardiovascular adverse events throughout the 6-year treatment period is particularly encouraging considering our patient’s high cardiovascular risk status.

Subfoveal PFCL is believed to cause photoreceptor damage in some eyes, probably because of mechanical compression. Innovative methods of imaging such as spectral domain optical coherence tomography and confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope with infrared and autofluorescence, allow early and clear detection of subfoveal retained PFCL, as well as careful follow-up and easy differential diagnosis. Surgical removal leads to prompt retinal morphologic restoration and functional improvement enduring over time.

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