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Case Series: West African Crystalline Maculopathy
Christina E Morettin, Erica A Ittner1
1Department of Clinical Education, Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago, Illinois.
Summary
West African crystalline maculopathy is a rare condition causing asymptomatic macular crystals. This case series highlights its presentation in West African immigrants, emphasizing its potential role in blood-retina barrier breakdown.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
- Genetics
Background:
- West African crystalline maculopathy is a rare disorder with an unclear etiology.
- Macular crystals in this condition are typically asymptomatic and do not significantly impair vision.
- The breakdown of the blood-retina barrier may play a role in its pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe two new cases of West African crystalline maculopathy.
- To compare and contrast these cases with the existing literature, given the rarity of the condition (39 prior cases).
Main Methods:
- Case series presentation of two patients with West African crystalline maculopathy.
- Clinical examination findings, including ophthalmic history and visual assessment.
Main Results:
- Case 1: A 65-year-old woman from Ghana with asymptomatic macular crystals and quiescent proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
- Case 2: A 60-year-old woman from Nigeria with asymptomatic macular crystals, stage 1 hypertensive retinopathy, and extramacular drusen.
Conclusions:
- West African crystalline maculopathy should be considered in immigrants from West African countries presenting with asymptomatic foveal crystalline deposits.
- The condition is characterized by asymptomatic macular crystals and may be associated with other retinal findings.
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