An update on multiple recurrent serosanguineous retinal pigment epithelial detachments in black women

Abstract

A unique clinical entity of multiple recurrent serosanguineous retinal pigment epithelial detachments in three black women was first described by the authors in 1985. Nine patients with this entity have now been observed, all of whom have developed a vitreous hemorrhage in at least one eye. Vitreous hemorrhage was the initial clinical presentation in seven eyes and developed 63.5 months after initial presentation in another patient who eventually sustained bilateral vitreous hemorrhages. Ultrasonographic examination in this entity often shows a characteristic pattern of irregular choroidal thickening and retinal elevation, which may aid in the diagnosis when the presentation is that of a vitreous hemorrhage of unknown origin. Vitrectomy has been performed in three cases, two of these retaining clear media during subsequent follow-up. Postvitrectomy vision correlated with the extent of macular involvement by the underlying disease. Eight patients had a history of, or evidence of, hypertension. Although choroidal neovascular membranes are a potential cause, the definitive etiology is not known.