[White dot syndromes : Principles, diagnostics, and treatment]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Genetics

Background:

• White dot syndromes (WDS) are a group of rare, distinct inflammatory eye diseases.
• They present as yellowish-white foci in the outer retina, retinal pigment epithelium, and choroid.
• WDS pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for clinicians and researchers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the various white dot syndromes.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with these conditions.
• To explore the potential underlying pathogenesis of WDS.

Main Methods:

• This abstract reviews the clinical characteristics and proposed etiologies of several WDS.
• It categorizes WDS into primary inflammatory choriocapillaropathies and primary stromal choroiditis.
• The review synthesizes current understanding of their pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• The abstract lists key WDS including APMPPE/AMIC, MEWDS/AIBSE, MFC, PIC, SC, AZOOR, AMN, and BSRC.
• It notes that the pathogenesis of most WDS remains largely unknown.
• A common potential denominator appears to be immunological reactions following viral infections in genetically predisposed individuals.

Conclusions:

• White dot syndromes encompass a spectrum of inflammatory choriocapillaropathies and choroiditis.
• Understanding the pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Genetic predisposition and prior viral infections are implicated in the development of WDS.