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Ocular histoplasmosis syndrome

D B Burgess

    Ophthalmology
    |July 1, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Argon laser photocoagulation significantly reduces severe vision loss in ocular histoplasmosis patients with choroidal neovascular membranes. Prompt treatment is recommended for those with membranes outside the fovea.

    Area of Science:

    • Ophthalmology
    • Retinal Diseases
    • Medical Interventions

    Background:

    • Choroidal neovascular membranes (NVMs) can cause severe vision loss.
    • Ocular histoplasmosis syndrome is a common cause of NVMs.
    • Treatment options for NVMs not involving the fovea were previously limited.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To evaluate the efficacy of argon laser photocoagulation for NVMs outside the fovea.
    • To compare laser treatment outcomes with observation in patients with ocular histoplasmosis.

    Main Methods:

    • The Macular Photocoagulation Study (MPS) was a multi-center clinical trial.
    • Patients with ocular histoplasmosis and extrafoveal NVMs were randomized to receive argon laser photocoagulation or no treatment.
    • Visual acuity and other measures of vision were monitored over two years.

    Main Results:

    • Argon laser photocoagulation reduced the risk of severe visual loss from 46% to 13% within two years.
    • The treatment was particularly effective in patients with ocular histoplasmosis syndrome.
    • No significant adverse effects of the laser treatment were reported.

    Conclusions:

    • Argon laser photocoagulation is an effective treatment for NVMs that do not involve the fovea, especially in patients with ocular histoplasmosis.
    • Prompt treatment with argon laser photocoagulation is advised for eligible patients.
    • The MPS findings support the use of laser photocoagulation as a standard of care.

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