Recurrent Neuroretinitis: A Unique Presentation of Behçet's Disease in a Child

Gilad Rabina1, Gil Amarilyo2, Dinah Zur1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.

Insights

This case study highlights neuroretinitis as a rare manifestation of pediatric Behçet's disease (BD). Early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are crucial for managing ocular symptoms and preventing vision loss in children with BD.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Rheumatology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Behçet's disease (BD) is a rare multisystemic inflammatory disorder.
  • Ocular involvement is common in BD, but neuroretinitis is an uncommon presentation, especially in pediatric cases.

Observation:

  • A 4.5-year-old girl with fever, erythema nodosum, arthritis, and aphthae was diagnosed with BD.
  • She presented with recurrent neuroretinitis and macular star appearance in the left eye.
  • Ocular findings included anterior and intermediate uveitis, progressing to significant vision loss.

Findings:

  • The patient received treatment with IV methylprednisolone, oral betamethasone, infliximab, and colchicine.
  • Systemic remission and quiescent uveitis were achieved.
  • Long-term follow-up revealed a remnant juxtafoveal retinal scar but preserved visual acuity.

Implications:

  • This is the first reported case of neuroretinitis as a manifestation of pediatric BD.
  • Ophthalmologists should consider BD in the differential diagnosis of neuroretinitis in children.
  • Prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are essential for favorable visual outcomes in pediatric BD with ocular involvement.