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Spontaneous superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis: a rare entity with potentially devastating consequences
L H Lim1, R L Scawn2, K M Whipple2
11] Division of Oculofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, UCSD Shiley Eye Center, La Jolla, CA, USA [2] Oculoplastic Service, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore, Singapore.
Eye (London, England)
|December 21, 2013
Summary
Spontaneous superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis (SOVT) is rare, with multifactorial risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, but vision loss can still occur in these ophthalmic emergencies.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Spontaneous superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis (SOVT) is an uncommon condition.
- Identifying risk factors and understanding clinical presentations are essential for prompt diagnosis.
Observation:
- Three patients with SOVT presented with unilateral painful proptosis.
- Risk factors identified included sickle cell trait, hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, and colon cancer with deep vein thrombosis.
- Two patients received anticoagulation; all showed proptosis resolution.
Findings:
- SOVT diagnosis is confirmed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV).
- Despite prompt intervention, one patient experienced irreversible vision loss.
- Proptosis resolved in all cases, indicating potential for symptom improvement.
Implications:
- SOVT necessitates a comprehensive evaluation for underlying risk factors.
- Multifactorial risk factors contribute to the development of SOVT.
- Urgent management is critical, but visual outcomes can be variable.
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