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Partial regression of degenerative retinoschisis associated with epiretinal membrane after vitrectomy
Marcin Stopa1, Izabela Rogalinska, Jaroslaw Kociecki
1Department of Ophthalmology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland. stopa@usoms.pozan.pl
Purpose:
To report a new and atypical pathology of epiretinal membrane formation on the top of the retinoschisis (schisis-membrane).
Methods:
We describe a patient with recent visual acuity and visual field deterioration due to a rapid progression of retinoschisis in the macular area resulting from shrinking membrane on the top of the schisis. The patient underwent vitrectomy with membrane removal.
Results:
Partial regression of the schisis was observed and visual acuity improved from 5/12 to 5/5. Perimetry demonstrated that the corresponding visual field deterioration partially regressed.
Conclusions:
Release of traction exerted by a shrinking membrane is a surgical option to promote regression of retinoschisis and improvement in visual field and vision in schisis-membrane cases.
Insights
A novel epiretinal membrane on retinoschisis (schisis-membrane) can cause vision loss. Surgical removal of this shrinking membrane improved vision and visual fields in a patient with this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
Background:
- Epiretinal membranes typically form on the internal limiting membrane.
- Retinoschisis involves splitting of the retinal layers.
Observation:
- A patient presented with rapid visual acuity and visual field decline.
- This deterioration was linked to an atypical epiretinal membrane forming on top of macular retinoschisis.
Findings:
- The patient underwent vitrectomy with surgical removal of the epiretinal membrane.
- Post-surgery, partial regression of retinoschisis was observed.
- Visual acuity improved from 5/12 to 5/5, and visual field deficits partially resolved.
Implications:
- Surgical release of traction from shrinking schisis-membranes is a viable treatment.
- This intervention can lead to improved vision and visual field function in affected patients.
