MASSIVE SPONTANEOUS CHOROIDAL HEMORRHAGE

Abstract

Purpose 

To describe the course, management, and prognosis of massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage.

Methods 

The presenting visual acuity, ocular findings, duration to surgical intervention, and outcomes of five patients were retrospectively reviewed.

Results 

Five eyes from four patients (median age, 80 years; range, 66–85 years) were studied. The patients were observed from 4 to 72 months (median, 33 months). Three patients were on anticoagulation therapy with warfarin; one patient had bilateral involvement with no history of anticoagulation therapy. Three patients were hypertensive, and three of the four had been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration. Four eyes underwent choroidal drainage procedures, and one was observed. In all patients whose choroids were drained, the final vision was no light perception.

Conclusions 

Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage may be associated with hypertension, systemic anticoagulation, advanced age, and age-related macular degeneration. Final visual acuities are generally poor.