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Reversible monocular blindness complicating Churg-Strauss syndrome
A R Alberts1, R Lasonde, K R Ackerman
1Division of Rheumatology and Allergy-Clinical Immunology, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, New York 11030.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|February 1, 1994
Summary
Churg-Strauss syndrome can affect the temporal artery, causing vision loss. Early corticosteroid treatment may improve vision in patients with this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS), also known as eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, is a rare systemic vasculitis.
- It is characterized by asthma, hypereosinophilia, and systemic inflammation affecting various organs.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old woman with an inferior vena cava thrombus presented with asthma, peripheral neuropathy, jaw claudication, and visual loss.
- Temporal artery biopsy showed vasculitis with eosinophils, but no giant cells.
Findings:
- High-dose corticosteroid treatment improved the patient's visual acuity from hand motion to 20/60.
- While temporal artery involvement in CSS is documented, visual loss is infrequent and often permanent.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for visual impairment in CSS affecting the temporal artery.
- Prompt diagnosis and aggressive corticosteroid therapy may be crucial for visual salvage in affected patients.