Stellate Multiform Amelanotic Choroidopaty and the importance of its diagnosis to avoid overtreatment

SMACH (Stellate Multiform Amelanotic Choroidopathy) is a rare entity that should be considered for differential diagnosis of choroidal lesions with subretinal fluid, particularly in young patients. We present the case of a 15-year-old male with a yellow-orange choroidal lesion in the right eye, initially misinterpreted as an infection process due to the presence of a cutaneous erythema and environmental exposure. Multimodal imaging - including OCT, en-face OCT, and ICG - was essential in identifying the hallmark features of SMACH: dendriform projections, choroidal hyperreflectivity in absence of pachyvessels or deep vascular alteration, and a stellate hypofluorescent pattern. The self-limited nature of the subretinal fluid and the absence of inflammatory signs supported the diagnosis. Recognizing SMACH avoided unnecessary treatments such as anti-VEGF therapy or corticosteroids. This is Spain's first case, it underscores the importance of early diagnosis through multimodal imaging to prevent overtreatment and to improve both visual and emotional outcomes for the patient.