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Torpedo maculopathy
B A Teitelbaum1, D L Hachey, L V Messner
1Illinois College of Optometry, Chicago 60616, USA.
Journal of the American Optometric Association
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Torpedo maculopathy is a congenital retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) nevus. This oval, temporal macula lesion is typically asymptomatic and requires yearly evaluation due to its benign nature.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Science
Background:
- Congenital nevi of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) present with variable pigmentation.
- These RPE nevi are typically asymptomatic and can be solitary or grouped.
- Torpedo maculopathy is a recently identified congenital RPE nevus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review congenital nevi of the RPE.
- To include torpedo maculopathy in the review of RPE nevi.
Main Methods:
- Review of congenital nevi of the retinal pigment epithelium.
- Inclusion of torpedo maculopathy in the review.
Main Results:
- Torpedo maculopathy is a solitary, oval congenital RPE nevus.
- This lesion is located in the temporal macula and is variably pigmented.
- Diagnosis relies on characteristic shape and location; etiology may involve choroidal vasculature alterations during embryonic development. Yearly evaluations are recommended due to its benign nature.
Conclusions:
- The classification of congenital RPE nevi is an evolving area.
- Further research will likely lead to improved systems for organizing these retinal lesions.