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Bilateral macular hole secondary to remote lightning strike
Krishna A Rao1, Lavanya G Rao, Ajay N Kamath
1Department Of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|October 29, 2009
Summary
Lightning strike survivors can experience delayed vision loss. This case highlights lightning-induced ocular damage, including cataracts and macular holes, emphasizing the need for comprehensive eye exams after such trauma.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Trauma Medicine
Background:
- Lightning strike injuries are rare but can cause significant systemic and ocular complications.
- Delayed ophthalmic evaluation is crucial for identifying progressive visual impairment following lightning exposure.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with blurred vision in the right eye two months after a lightning strike.
- Ophthalmic examination revealed a relative afferent pupillary defect, bilateral posterior subcapsular cataracts, macular holes, and peripheral retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hyperpigmentation.
Findings:
- Fundus fluorescein angiography demonstrated increased choroidal transmission in the foveal region and RPE stippling, indicative of chorioretinal damage.
- The findings suggest a direct or indirect mechanism of lightning-induced damage to the retina and choroid.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for delayed and severe ocular manifestations after lightning strikes.
- Comprehensive ophthalmological assessment is recommended for all patients experiencing lightning-related trauma to detect and manage vision-threatening conditions.
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