Holiday Souvenir Gone Wrong: Laser Pointer-Induced Maculopathy

Self‑induced maculopathy caused by handheld laser pointers has emerged as an increasingly recognized source of retinal injury in children and adolescents. We report the case of a 13‑year‑old girl with pre‑existing unilateral amblyopia and small‑angle strabismus who presented with a paracentral scotoma and bilateral visual reduction following exposure to a non‑certified 100 mW green laser pointer purchased during a holiday in Spain. On presentation, best‑corrected visual acuity measured 8/10 in the right eye and 7/10 in the left eye. Fundus examination revealed a central macular retinal pigment epithelium lesion in the right eye. Optical coherence tomography demonstrated disruption of the ellipsoid zone at the right foveola, consistent with laser‑induced maculopathy. The patient was managed conservatively with observation and strict avoidance of further laser exposure. At three months, right‑eye visual acuity improved to 10/10, indicating partial yet incomplete recovery. This case highlights that laser‑pointer‑induced maculopathy may present asymmetrically with relatively mild visual impairment and a generally favorable prognosis, while underscoring the need for public awareness and stronger regulation of high‑power laser devices marketed as toys.