Analysis of Retinal Findings of Acute Retinal Necrosis Using Optical Coherence Tomography

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze the retinal findings in patients with ARN, optical coherence tomography (OCT) was performed. Methods: Seven patients (7 eyes) with ARN were studied using OCT. Results: OCT images depicted highly reflective areas in the inner layers of the retina in all seven cases, corresponding with the yellowish-white lesions of the retina in the acute phase. Disorganization of the retinal structure was also observed in these retinal lesions, especially in cases with severe inflammation. Subretinal changes including retinal exudate and/or fluid were observed in only one case. After regression of the yellowish-white lesions in the retina, a significant reduction in retinal thickness was observed on OCT. Conclusions: OCT permits the detection of full-thickness retinal necrosis in the acute phase and complete absence of retinal structure in the resolution phase, corresponding with the yellowish-white lesions seen in patients with ARN.

KEYWORDS:

• Acute retinal necrosis
• optical coherence tomography