Foveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to accidental laser exposure in a dermatologist: A case report

Most laser-induced retinal injuries are caused by accidental laser discharge during the preparation of laser devices without protective goggles, laser injury during the cosmetic procedure in a dermatologist, is very rare, with no prior case reports.

A 55-year-old Asian male dermatologist visited our hospital with a 2-week history of visual disturbance in his right eye. He had experienced sudden central scotoma in the right eye while using a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm, 2 J/cm, 6-mm spot size, 750 ps) 2 to 3 cm from the target without proper eye protection. He had applied a glass slide firmly onto the treatment area prior to commencing the procedure. The choroidal neovascularization (CNV) was detected via optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) 2 weeks after the laser injury.

Foveal CNV secondary to laser energy reflected from the glass slide.

Intravitreal bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) injection was performed.

Regression of CNV was observed.

Retinal injury can occur not only by direct laser beam exposure but also by way of a beam reflected from a glass slide. Operators should always use laser safety eyewear during cosmetic procedures involving laser devices, so as to prevent the occurrence of ocular complications. Thorough short-term follow-up with OCTA is recommended for the prompt detection of CNV in cases of retinal laser injury.