Binasal Visual Field Defects Due to Sickle Cell Maculopathy.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Hematology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder.
• Retinal complications, though uncommon, can occur in SCD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of bilateral temporal retinal arteriole occlusion in a patient with sickle cell disease.
• To highlight the diagnostic utility of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in evaluating visual field defects in SCD.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 26-year-old African American male with SCD.
• Comprehensive eye examination including visual field testing.
• Macular Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for detailed retinal imaging.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with blurry vision and binasal scotomas.
• Ocular examination was otherwise normal.
• Macular OCT revealed severe thinning of the temporal inner retina, indicative of prior arteriole occlusions.

Conclusions:

• Retinal arteriolar occlusions are an uncommon but significant complication of sickle cell disease.
• OCT is a valuable tool for detecting subtle retinal changes and diagnosing visual field defects in SCD patients.
• Ophthalmologic evaluation is essential for patients with SCD experiencing visual disturbances.