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Ocular involvement in primary antiphospholipid syndrome. Ocular involvement in primary APS
F Y Demirci1, R Küçükkaya, K Akarçay
1Department of Ophthalmology, Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Turkey. ykdcmirci@yahoo.com
International Ophthalmology
|August 11, 2000
Summary
Ocular findings are common in primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Posterior segment abnormalities, including retinal vascular occlusion, were frequent, highlighting the need for APS screening in young patients with such conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder.
- Ocular manifestations in APS are not fully understood.
- Early detection of ocular involvement can prevent vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the spectrum of ocular findings in patients diagnosed with primary antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
Main Methods:
- Ophthalmologic examinations were conducted on 22 primary APS patients (44 eyes).
- Fundus fluorescein angiography was performed on 18 patients.
- Demographic and clinical data were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Visual symptoms were reported by 72.7% of patients.
- Posterior segment abnormalities occurred in 68.2% of patients.
- Common findings included venous dilatation/tortuosity and retinal vascular occlusive disease (22.7%).
- Fluorescein angiography revealed abnormalities in 77.8% of patients, with pigment epithelial window defects being most common.
Conclusions:
- Posterior segment eye involvement is a significant feature of primary APS.
- Screening for APS is crucial in young individuals presenting with retinal vascular occlusion, particularly those lacking traditional risk factors.