Atypical choroidal neovascularization in radiation retinopathy

Am J Ophthalmol. 2002 May;133(5):709-11. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(02)01331-4.

Abstract

Purpose: To report atypical choroidal neovascularization associated with radiation retinopathy.

Design: Case report.

Methods: The patient was examined with ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography.

Results: A 32-year-old woman presented with an accelerated course of radiation retinopathy with macular edema, capillary telangiectasis, subretinal fluid, and lipid during and after pregnancy. Indocyanine green, but not fluorescein angiography, demonstrated an unusual area of choroidal neovascularization with prominent saccular dilations adjacent to a large zone of poor choroidal perfusion. Laser photocoagulation of the choroidal neovascularization resulted in an angiographic closure with absorption of the subretinal fluid and improvement of visual acuity.

Conclusions: Choroidal neovascularization may be associated with radiation retinopathy and, when present, may require indocyanine green angiography for its diagnosis.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brachytherapy / adverse effects
  • Choroid Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / diagnosis
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / etiology*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / surgery
  • Coloring Agents
  • Female
  • Fluorescein Angiography
  • Humans
  • Indocyanine Green
  • Iodine Radioisotopes / adverse effects
  • Laser Coagulation
  • Melanoma / radiotherapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Radiation Injuries / diagnosis
  • Radiation Injuries / etiology*
  • Radiation Injuries / surgery
  • Retina / radiation effects*
  • Retinal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Retinal Diseases / etiology*
  • Retinal Diseases / surgery

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Iodine Radioisotopes
  • Indocyanine Green