Recurrence of acute lymphoblastic leukemia manifesting as serous retinal detachments and optic disc swelling.

PURPOSE: The aim of this case report is to describe a patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) who developed bilateral serous retinal detachments and unilateral optic disc swelling.

METHODS

A 23-year-old woman with ALL presented to the ophthalmology clinic with bilateral subacute visual loss.

RESULTS

Ophthalmologic examination revealed bilateral serous retinal detachments and unilateral optic disc swelling. Magnetic resonance imaging for differential diagnosis was inconclusive; however, cerebrospinal fluid sampling demonstrated leukemic involvement of the central nervous system. The patient's vision improved and fundus findings resolved with the institution of systemic and intrathecal chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Serous retinal detachment and optic disc swelling are unusual ocular manifestations of ALL. They may occur due to leukemic infiltration of ocular structures and may indicate extramedullary recurrence of the disease. Early recognition and treatment is crucial to improve prognosis.