Massive choroidal detachment masking overlying primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a case series

Choroidal detachment (CD) along with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) as a presenting finding is a well-recognised association. The pathogenesis appears to revolve around the hypotony induced by the primary RRD and an unstable choroidal vascular system. We present 3 patients with massive CD with minimal or no overlying RRD, initially misdiagnosed as a CD due to other causes. Since the correct diagnosis may be delayed, such cases form a real challenge in differential diagnosis and management. The underlying cycle where the retinal defect of a primary RRD is buckled by a CD, followed by the regression of the latter and the recurrence of the RRD is demonstrated.