Heterotopia of the macula (ectopic macula): an unusual presentation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Case Reports
• Retinal Diseases

Background:

• Macular heterotopia is a rare condition involving significant displacement of the macula.
• Over 90% of reported cases involve temporal displacement (exotropia) with specific ocular findings.
• This highlights the rarity and typical presentation patterns of macular heterotopia.

Observation:

• A unique case of macular heterotopia is presented.
• The patient exhibited apparent esotropia and a large negative angle lambda.
• This contrasts with the common presentation of apparent exotropia.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of ectopic macula with nasal displacement towards the optic disc.
• The nasal displacement was associated with suspected retinopathy of prematurity.
• Previous nasal displacement cases were linked to chorioretinitis, not retinopathy of prematurity.

Implications:

• This case expands the known spectrum of macular heterotopia presentations.
• It suggests a potential association between retinopathy of prematurity and nasal ectopic macula.
• Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and clinical significance of this rare condition.