MULTIMODAL IMAGING IN BILATERAL ISOLATED CHOROIDAL MELANOCYTOSIS

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Imaging
• Pigmentary Disorders

Background:

• Choroidal melanocytosis is a rare condition involving abnormal pigmentation of the choroid.
• Bilateral and isolated forms are exceptionally uncommon.
• Accurate diagnosis relies on advanced imaging techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document a rare instance of bilateral isolated choroidal melanocytosis.
• To underscore the importance of thorough imaging in diagnosing such conditions.
• To highlight potential risks associated with choroidal melanocytosis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized multimodal imaging: ultra-widefield fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and OCT angiography.
• Assessed extensive choroidal hyperpigmentation in a 58-year-old Hispanic female.
• Evaluated for vascular abnormalities, retinal thickness, and choroidal changes.

Main Results:

• Identified 360-degree peripheral choroidal hyperpigmentation in both eyes.
• Fundus autofluorescence showed mild hypofluorescence in pigmented areas.
• OCT and OCT angiography revealed normal retinal structure and no vascular abnormalities, though increased sub-foveal choroidal thickness was noted.

Conclusions:

• Bilateral isolated choroidal melanocytosis can be accurately diagnosed with comprehensive imaging.
• Vigilant monitoring is crucial due to the potential for malignant transformation.
• This case emphasizes the diagnostic utility of advanced imaging in rare ocular conditions.