Pars plana vitrectomy for asteroid hyalosis.

Asteroid hyalosis is a common, usually asymptomatic, benign vitreous disease affecting older individuals. A case report of an aphakic patient who developed anterior segment complications with no visualization of the fundus is presented. A pars plana anterior and posterior vitrectomy was performed using the Ocutome system. An excellent technical result with moderate restoration of vision was achieved. Preoperative evaluation with ultrasound was helpful. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis of calcium-containing lipids. Other indications for vitrectomy for asteroid hyalosis include retinal detachments in which the tear cannot be seen and diabetic retinopathy in which laser cannot be performed. Differential diagnosis includes synchysis scintillans, which is usually bilateral and seen in younger individuals after severe ocular inflammation, trauma, or hemorrhage.