Microhemorrhagic maculopathy associated with aerobic exercise

Microhemorrhagic maculopathy is a condition characterized by the spontaneous appearance of a small, unilateral macular hemorrhage in apparently healthy individuals. In most cases, no cause if found; however, transient stress to the vascular system via a Valsalva maneuver is sometimes associated with its occurrence. This is referred to as Valsalva hemorrhagic retinopathy. In addition to Valsalva stress, other factors such as hematologic disorders, adverse effects of systemic medications, or genetic influences may play a role. In this paper, a case of Valsalva hemorrhagic retinopathy associated with aerobic exercise is presented; its mechanism is discussed; and other factors which may contribute to the formation of microhemorrhagic maculopathy are reviewed.