Sympathetic ophthalmia following cyclocryotherapy with histopathologic correlation

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pathology

Background:

• Sympathetic ophthalmia is a rare, bilateral inflammatory condition affecting the uveal tract.
• Cyclocryotherapy is a treatment modality used for various ocular conditions, including neovascular glaucoma.

Observation:

• A case of sympathetic ophthalmia occurred after cyclocryotherapy for neovascular glaucoma secondary to central retinal vein occlusion.
• Histopathologic examination of the affected eye (exciting eye) was performed.

Findings:

• The histopathology revealed significant features consistent with sympathetic ophthalmia.
• Evidence of uveal pigment migration to the limbal conjunctiva was observed.
• Lymphocytic infiltration around the migrated pigments suggested a potential role in the etiopathogenesis.

Implications:

• This case contributes to understanding the rare but serious complication of sympathetic ophthalmia post-cyclocryotherapy.
• The findings suggest a possible mechanism involving pigment dispersion and immune response.
• Further research may explore preventative strategies or alternative treatments to mitigate this risk.