Unusual optical coherence tomography and fundus autofluorescence findings of eclipse retinopathy

Abstract

A 63-year-old female patient complained of dimness in the central field of vision in the left eye after viewing an annular partial eclipse without adequate eye protection on 22 July 2009. Fundoscopy showed a wrinkled macular surface. Fundus autofluorescence study revealed well-demarcated hyperautofluorescence at the fovea. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated tiny intraretinal cysts. Fluorescein angiography and indocyanine green angiography were unremarkable. Epimacular membrane developed in the following month with deteriorated vision. Vitrectomy, epiretinal membrane and internal limiting membrane peeling were performed. Vision was restored to 20/20 after the operation. Direct sun-gazing may damage the retinal structures resulting in macular inflammation and increased focal metabolism, which explains the hyperautofluorescence. It may also induce epimacular membrane. Fundus autofluorescence might represent a useful technique to detect subtle solar-induced injuries of the retina. The visual prognosis is favorable but prevention remains the mainstay of treatment. Public health education is mandatory in reducing visual morbidity.

Macular pigment changes after cataract surgery with yellow-tinted intraocular lens implantation

“…This situation is called blue light hazard. Acute damage to the retina by accidentally gazing at sun light, arc welding light, laser light from medical and industrial equipment, and light emission diodes used in toys has been reported [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22]. However, the harmfulness of chronic exposure to blue light of certain wavelengths is still controversial [23][24][25][26].…”

Clinical Photic Retinopathy: Mechanisms, Manifestations, and Misperceptions

“…The lesion fades over several weeks without significant damage (Fig. 4b) or causes abnormalities including foveal pigment mottling, lamellar holes, and/or epiretinal membranes [6,[136][137][138]. Visual acuity usually decreases to 20/ 40-20/200 immediately after an injury but returns to the 20/20-20/40 level over the following 6 months [136,139].…”