Solitary retinal astrocytoma

Astrocytic hamartomas are typically white, well-circumscribed, elevated lesions arising in single or multiple areas of the retina and epi- or peripapillary optic nerve. These lesions are most commonly associated with tuberous sclerosis and less commonly associated with neurofibromatosis. However, solitary retinal or optic nerve astrocytomas can be found in normal individuals. This paper reviews the case of a 48-year-old white female who presented with a solitary retinal astrocytoma of the right eye, without any other physical or ocular disorder. The histopathological and clinical appearance and course of astrocytomas, its differential diagnosis from other retinal and optic nerve lesions, and its association with tuberous sclerosis are discussed.