Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the course, management, and prognosis of massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage.

Methods: The presenting visual acuity, ocular findings, duration to surgical intervention, and outcomes of five patients were retrospectively reviewed.

Results: Five eyes from four patients (median age, 80 years; range, 66-85 years) were studied. The patients were observed from 4 to 72 months (median, 33 months). Three patients were on anticoagulation therapy with warfarin; one patient had bilateral involvement with no history of anticoagulation therapy. Three patients were hypertensive, and three of the four had been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration. Four eyes underwent choroidal drainage procedures, and one was observed. In all patients whose choroids were drained, the final vision was no light perception.

Conclusions: Massive spontaneous choroidal hemorrhage may be associated with hypertension, systemic anticoagulation, advanced age, and age-related macular degeneration. Final visual acuities are generally poor.