[Spontaneous hyphema caused by Ginkgo biloba extract]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Hematology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ginkgo biloba extract is widely used for its vascular protective effects, particularly in the elderly.
• The extract is known to inhibit platelet aggregation.
• Spontaneous hyphema is a rare but serious ocular condition.

Observation:

• A patient presented with spontaneous hyphema originating from the iris margin.
• The patient had been ingesting Ginkgo biloba extract for two weeks prior to symptom onset.
• No other predisposing factors for hyphema were identified.

Findings:

• Extensive ophthalmological and hematological investigations were performed, including platelet function tests and imaging.
• Ginkgo biloba extract was identified as the unique cause of the hyphema.
• Cessation of Ginkgo biloba intake led to complete resolution of the hemorrhage.

Implications:

• This case highlights a potential risk of hemorrhage associated with Ginkgo biloba use.
• Clinicians should consider Ginkgo biloba as a potential cause of spontaneous hyphema, especially in patients without other risk factors.
• Further research may be warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms by which Ginkgo biloba can induce ocular bleeding.