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peripheral focal chorioretinitis

Description

Peripheral focal chorioretinitis (PFC) is a type of chorioretinitis that affects the peripheral retina, typically confined within the vascular arcades [2]. It is characterized by small, round, punched-out lesions in the peripheral retina, which can lead to loss of peripheral visual field [2]. However, visual acuity can remain normal, with many patients having a visual acuity of 6/12 or better [2].

PFC is often associated with chronic posterior or panuveitis, and may be accompanied by vitritis or anterior chamber inflammation in some cases [4]. The condition tends to have a better visual prognosis compared to other forms of chorioretinitis [2].

It's worth noting that PFC can be a multifocal condition, meaning it can affect multiple areas of the retina simultaneously. In such cases, the lesions may be scattered throughout the peripheral retina, and can lead to significant visual impairment if left untreated.

Overall, PFC is a relatively rare form of chorioretinitis that requires prompt medical attention to prevent vision-threatening complications [14].

Additional Characteristics

  • significant visual impairment
  • small, round, punched-out lesions
  • loss of peripheral visual field
  • 12 or better
  • vitritis
  • anterior chamber inflammation

Signs and Symptoms

Diagnostic Tests

Peripheral multifocal chorioretinitis (PMC) is a type of eye inflammation that affects the peripheral retina and choroid. To diagnose PMC, several diagnostic tests can be used.

  • Funduscopic examination: This is a critical test for diagnosing PMC, as it allows the doctor to examine the back of the eye and look for signs of inflammation, such as vitritis (inflammation of the vitreous) and punched-out lesions in the peripheral retina [4].
  • Color Fundus Photography: This imaging test can help visualize the extent of the inflammation and any associated retinal damage [6].
  • Fluorescein Fundus Angiography: This test uses a fluorescent dye to highlight areas of inflammation or leakage in the retina, which can be indicative of PMC [6].
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): OCT is an imaging test that uses low-coherence interferometry to produce high-resolution images of the retina and choroid. It can help identify signs of inflammation, such as vitritis and retinal damage [3].
  • Indocyanine Green Angiography: This test uses a green dye to highlight areas of inflammation or leakage in the choroid, which can be indicative of PMC [6].

These diagnostic tests can help confirm the diagnosis of peripheral multifocal chorioretinitis and rule out other potential causes of eye inflammation.

References: [3] - 3. An eye doctor can diagnose chorioretinitis by doing a comprehensive eye exam, asking questions and administering a variety of tests. Tests that may be used to diagnose chorioretinitis include: A Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) to look at blood flow in the back of the eyes. Eye imaging such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to look for ... [4] - 4. Dec 14, 2022 — Peripheral multifocal chorioretinitis (PMC) is characterised by the presence of multiple (>10), small, round, punched out lesions in the peripheral retina. [6] - 6. Color Fundus Photography, Fluorescein Fundus Angiography and Indocyanine Green Angiography can be used to diagnose PMC.

Additional Diagnostic Tests

  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
  • Funduscopic examination
  • Indocyanine Green Angiography
  • Color Fundus Photography
  • Fluorescein Fundus Angiography

Treatment

Treatment Options for Peripheral Focal Chorioretinitis

Peripheral focal chorioretinitis, a type of eye inflammation, can be effectively managed with various drug treatments. The primary goal is to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the retina.

  • Antimicrobial therapy: Antibiotics, antiviral, or antiparasitic medications may be prescribed to treat any underlying infection that caused the chorioretinitis (1). This approach is crucial in cases where a specific pathogen has been identified.
  • Corticosteroids: Corticosteroid drugs, such as prednisone pills, can help reduce inflammation in the choroid and retina (13). These medications are often used in conjunction with antimicrobial therapy to manage the condition effectively.

Additional Treatment Considerations

In some cases, other factors may influence treatment decisions:

  • Oral valganciclovir: This medication is an alternative to intravenous treatments for patients with progressive disease or those who cannot tolerate traditional therapies (7).
  • Sulfonamide and non-sulfonamide combination therapy: A treatment regimen consisting of a sulfonamide and a non-sulfonamide, along with systemic steroids and folic acid supplements, may be preferred in certain cases (6).

Importance of Early Treatment

Prompt medical attention is essential to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome. Delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to vision loss and other serious consequences.

References:

[1] - Context result 3 [7] - Context result 8 [13] - Context result 13

Recommended Medications

  • Corticosteroids
  • Antimicrobial therapy
  • Oral valganciclovir
  • Sulfonamide and non-sulfonamide combination therapy

💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.

Differential Diagnosis

Peripheral multifocal choroiditis (PMC) is a type of uveitis that affects the posterior segment of the eye, including the choroid and retina. When it comes to differential diagnosis, several conditions should be considered.

  • Toxoplasma gondii infection: This parasite is the most common cause of chorioretinitis worldwide, leading to toxoplasma chorioretinitis [3]. The symptoms can mimic those of PMC, making it a crucial condition to rule out.
  • Retinoblastoma: Although rare in adults, retinoblastoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis due to its similar presentation [1].
  • Inflammatory and infectious processes: A wide range of inflammatory and infectious processes can cause multifocal choroiditis, making it essential to approach each case with a thorough diagnostic workup [7].

Other conditions that may be considered in the differential diagnosis of PMC include:

  • Choroiditis: This is an inflammatory condition affecting only the choroid layer of the eye.
  • Uveitis: A broader term encompassing inflammation of the uveal tract, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.

It's essential to note that a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including imaging studies and laboratory tests, is necessary to accurately diagnose PMC and rule out other conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent vision loss and improve outcomes [4].

References:

[1] Context 1: Retinoblastoma is an important differential diagnosis to be considered, which has a similar presentation.

[3] Context 3: The most common cause of chorioretinitis worldwide is the parasite toxoplasma gondii.

[7] Context 7: The differential diagnosis for multifocal choroiditis includes a wide range of inflammatory and infectious processes.

Additional Differential Diagnoses

Additional Information

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It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medical condition.