Proliferative Retinopathy Associated with Repeated High-Altitude Exposure in a Patient with Sickle Cell Trait
Geoffrey K Broadhead1, Henry E Wiley1, David Peprah1
1Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Applications, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
High Altitude Medicine & Biology
|December 28, 2022
Summary
Repeated high-altitude exposure may trigger proliferative retinopathy in individuals with sickle cell trait (SCT). This case highlights the importance of considering SCT retinopathy in patients with sickle trait experiencing significant altitude changes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Hematology
- Aerospace Medicine
Background:
- Sickle cell trait (SCT) is generally asymptomatic and poses a low risk for hemoglobinopathy complications, including retinopathy.
- Previous reports of proliferative retinopathy in SCT patients were linked to co-existing ocular or systemic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of proliferative retinopathy in a patient with SCT.
- To investigate the potential role of high-altitude exposure in the development of retinopathy in SCT.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an otherwise healthy patient with SCT.
- Detailed patient history focusing on recent occupational exposure to high altitude.
Main Results:
- The patient, diagnosed with SCT, developed proliferative retinopathy requiring surgical intervention.
- The retinopathy emerged following a period of significant high-altitude exposure due to increased work as a flight attendant.
Conclusions:
- Significant high-altitude exposure may be a contributing factor to retinopathy development in individuals with sickle cell trait.
- Clinicians should consider sickle cell retinopathy in patients with SCT presenting with retinopathy, especially after high-altitude exposure.
