Streff-Like Syndrome in an Adult: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Psychiatry
• Neurology

Background:

• Streff syndrome typically affects younger individuals with visual disturbances.
• This case presents a Streff-like syndrome in a middle-aged woman with major depressive disorder.

Observation:

• The patient experienced bilateral reduced vision, constricted visual fields, and color vision deficiencies.
• Symptoms were triggered by a stressful event and accompanied by neurological complaints.
• Ophthalmological examination showed reduced near vision, diminished red saturation, and tubular visual fields, with normal anterior and posterior segments.

Findings:

• Neuroimaging and inflammatory workup were normal.
• A +1.00 lens temporarily improved visual acuity and symptoms.
• Collaborative management involving psychiatry, neurology, and ophthalmology, including psychotherapy, led to significant symptom improvement.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for psychogenic factors in Streff-like syndromes, especially in patients with underlying mental health conditions.
• It underscores the importance of recognizing stress-induced visual manifestations.
• An interdisciplinary approach is crucial for effective management of complex psychogenic visual disturbances.