Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing
Published on: May 5, 2022
Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Patients with Acute Syphilitic Panuveitis
Sara J Haug1,2, Ako Takakura1, J Michael Jumper1,2
1a Department of Ophthalmology , California Pacific Medical Center , San Francisco , California , USA .
Purpose:
To describe the clinical characteristics and surgical management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) in patients with acute syphilitic panuveitis.
Methods:
Retrospective case series and comprehensive literature review.
Results:
Including present and previously reported cases, we identified 11 eyes in 8 patients with acute syphilitic panuveitis that developed a rhegmatogenous RD. Seven of 11 eyes (63.6%) were repaired with a combined scleral buckling, vitrectomy, and endolaser photocoagulation surgery; 1 eye (9.1%) was repaired with scleral buckling only; and 2 eyes (18.2%) with vitrectomy only. Cryotherapy was used to treat a giant retinal tear in 1 eye (9.1%). Four eyes (36.4%) redetached and 3 underwent a second vitrectomy surgery.
Conclusions:
Although uncommon, rhegmatogenous RD can occur in patients with moderate to severe acute syphilitic panuveitis. We believe scleral buckling, vitrectomy, endolaser photocoagulation, and silicone oil tamponade give the best chance for successful retinal reattachment.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetic Retinopathy
Glaucoma: Overview
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways

