solar retinopathy

Solar retinopathy, also known as solar burn or sun-induced retinal damage, can cause a range of symptoms that vary in severity.

Common symptoms include:

• Blurred vision [1][2]
• Central blind spot in one or both eyes [3][5]
• Distorted vision, where straight lines appear wavy or curved [4][8]
• Reduced visual acuity [7]
• Eye pain and headaches [2][11]

More severe symptoms may include:

• Vision loss in one or both eyes [2][12]
• Flashes of light or eye floaters [12]
• Shapes and lines appearing wavy or distorted [12]

It's essential to note that the severity and duration of these symptoms can vary from person to person, and some individuals may experience temporary vision problems while others may have more permanent damage.

References:

[1] Context result 2 [2] Context result 3 [3] Context result 5 [4] Context result 6 [5] Context result 8 [7] Context result 9 [8] Context result 10 [11] Context result 11 [12] Context result 12

Solar retinopathy can be diagnosed using several diagnostic tests, which are designed to evaluate the condition and extent of damage to the retina.

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging test allows ophthalmologists to visualize the retina in high detail, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing solar retinopathy. OCT can detect changes in the outer layers of the retina, particularly in the fovea centralis, which is affected by solar retinopathy [3][5].
• Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF): This imaging test helps identify abnormalities in the retinal pigment epithelium and can be used to diagnose solar retinopathy. FAF can demonstrate macular dysfunction even when other tests cannot detect it [10].
• Multifocal Electroretinography (mfERG): This test measures the electrical activity of the retina and can help assess functional deficits in patients with chronic solar retinopathy. mfERG mainly persists in chronic cases, making it a helpful adjunctive test in the diagnosis of solar retinopathy [31].
• Fundoscopic Examination: A thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist is essential for diagnosing solar retinopathy. The examination involves looking at the retina with an ophthalmoscope to identify any changes or damage.
• Imaging Tests: Other imaging tests, such as optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and fundus photography, may also be used to diagnose solar retinopathy.

These diagnostic tests can help confirm a diagnosis of solar retinopathy and assess the extent of damage to the retina.

Treatment Options for Solar Retinopathy

Solar retinopathy, a condition caused by damage to the retina due to exposure to solar radiation, can be challenging to treat. While there is no established treatment, various medications and therapies have been explored to manage symptoms and promote recovery.

• Corticosteroids: The use of corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone (MP), has been suggested for the treatment of solar retinopathy due to their anti-inflammatory effects [5]. However, caution is advised when using systemic steroids, as they can present a risk for other macular diseases, cataract formation, and raised intraocular pressure [4].
• Prescription eye drops: In some cases, prescription eye drops may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected eye. This can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.
• Surgery: In rare instances, surgery may be necessary to repair any damage to the retina and restore vision. However, this is typically reserved for severe cases where other treatments have failed.

Important Considerations

It's essential to note that most cases of solar retinopathy resolve on their own within weeks to 6 months after exposure, with no specific treatment required [14]. In these instances, recovery occurs spontaneously, and vision loss or disturbance can remain for several months. However, permanent vision effects can occur in some cases.

Recent Studies

A recent study published in [13] explored the use of suprachoroidal triamcinolone acetonide injection using a custom-made needle to treat solar retinopathy. The results showed both functional and anatomical improvement of macular changes post-solar retinopathy, with acceptable safety outcomes.

Consulting an Eye Doctor

If you suspect that you have solar retinopathy, it's crucial to consult an eye doctor for proper evaluation and guidance. They can help determine the best course of treatment and provide ongoing care to monitor your condition.

References:

[1] No known beneficial treatment exists for solar retinopathy, although entities such as steroids have been tried without consistent evidence of effectivness. [4] The use of corticosteroids should be done with caution, and systemic steroids can present a risk for other macular diseases, and cataract formation and raised intraocular pressure. [5] by A Marashi · 2021 · Cited by 5 — There is no established treatment for solar retinopathy, and some reports suggested that steroid therapy could suppress the co-existing ... [11] Treatment for solar retinopathy may include prescription eye drops to reduce inflammation and pain, as well as wearing an eye patch to rest the affected eye and protect it from further damage. [12] In most cases, recovery occurs spontaneously with no specific treatment within weeks to 6 months after exposure. However, few cases have been reported in the literature using steroids in acute SR because of their anti-inflammatory effects. [13] Suprachoroidal triamcinolone acetonide injection using a custom-made needle showed both functional and anatomical improvement of macular changes post-solar retinopathy, with acceptable safety outcomes in a young female. [14] Treatment for solar retinopathy usually means waiting for your symptoms to improve over time. Your vision loss or disturbance can remain for several months, but in most cases, solar retinopathy resolves without treatment. However, permanent vision effects can remain.