[Purtscher-like retinopathy as a complication of acute pancreatitis]

Abstract

Introduction: Purtscher-like retinopathy as a complication of acute pancreatitis is a disease which causes generalized retinal and macular oedema associated with retinal surface haemorrhage, which results in a permanent, sometimes partially reversible visual loss.

Case report: The case report presented in this article refers to the case of a 36-year-old woman with severe acute pancreatitis. The pancreatitis led to the development of acute respiratory insufficiency with signs of septic shock and consequently, the patient was transferred to the critical care unit. The patient underwent a total of 8 surgical interventions with the revision of the abdominal cavity, necrectomy and application of the vacuum system into the abdominal cavity. Eye exams were conducted for impaired vision with the conclusion of Purtscher-like retinopathy associated with acute pancreatitis, occlusion of the central retinal artery of both eyes, confirmed by fluorescence angiography. After one year, alterations of the retina show no signs of improvement in this case; the loss of vision is permanent.Key words: acute pancreatitis Purtscher-like retinopathy.