Purtscher-Like Retinopathy After Acute Ischemic Colitis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vascular Medicine

Background:

• Purtscher retinopathy is a rare microvascular disorder.
• Its occlusive etiology is hypothesized but not fully understood.

Observation:

• A 72-year-old woman presented with sudden bilateral vision loss and abdominal pain.
• She was diagnosed with ischemic colitis of unknown origin.
• Funduscopic findings included retinal hemorrhages, cotton-wool spots, and Purtscher flecken.

Findings:

• A diagnosis of Purtscher-like retinopathy was made.
• Resolution of visual symptoms occurred upon successful treatment of ischemic colitis.
• This suggests a potential link between systemic ischemia and Purtscher-like retinopathy.

Implications:

• This case highlights an unreported etiology for Purtscher-like retinopathy.
• Understanding this link may improve diagnosis and management of this rare condition.
• Further research into the pathogenesis of Purtscher-like retinopathy is warranted.