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Choroidal hemorrhage associated with systemic tissue plasminogen activator
J A Khawly1, P J Ferrone, D E Holck
1Department of Ophthalmology, Duke University Eye Center, NC 27710, USA.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Tissue plasminogen activator, used after myocardial infarction, can cause spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage. This condition, though extensive, typically resolves within two months.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiology
- Hematology
Background:
- Spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage is a rare but serious complication.
- Myocardial infarction treatment often involves thrombolytic therapy.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old male developed a significant choroidal hemorrhage post-myocardial infarction.
- The patient received tissue plasminogen activator as part of his cardiac treatment.
Findings:
- Ocular examination confirmed the choroidal hemorrhage.
- Despite its extent, the patient maintained excellent visual acuity.
- The hemorrhage resolved completely within a two-month period.
Implications:
- Tissue plasminogen activator administration is a likely cause of this extensive hemorrhage.
- Hemorrhagic choroidal detachment should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients receiving thrombolytic therapy.
- This case highlights the importance of considering systemic treatments when evaluating ocular hemorrhages.