Melanoma associated retinopathy: A new dimension using adaptive optics

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Immunology

Background:

• Melanoma-associated retinopathy (MAR) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting vision.
• Early diagnosis is crucial for managing vision-threatening retinal conditions.

Observation:

• A 56-year-old male presented with metamorphopsia, a visual distortion, in his left eye.
• Standard eye examinations were normal, but microperimetry showed central field loss.
• Spectral domain optical coherence tomography revealed disruption of the cone outer segment tip layer.

Findings:

• The patient had a history of cutaneous melanoma treated 5 months prior.
• Clinical diagnosis of MAR was confirmed by electrophysiology.
• Adaptive optics retinal imaging assessed cone mosaic integrity, marking the first use of this technique for MAR.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the utility of advanced imaging techniques like adaptive optics in diagnosing autoimmune retinopathy.
• Innovative diagnostic modalities can facilitate early detection and management of MAR.
• Highlights the link between oncological history and ophthalmic autoimmune conditions.