Exudative retinal detachment in relapsing polychondritis : case report and literature review.

OBJECTIVE

To report the atypical ocular symptoms (arterialized conjunctival vessels, exudative retinal detachment) that can be the presenting manifestations of relapsing polychondritis.

DESIGN

Observational case report and literature review.

METHODS

A complete ocular and systemic evaluation was performed on a patient with relapsing polychondritis and exudative retinal detachment.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Retinal, choroidal, and scleral findings.

RESULTS

A 73-year-old man with relapsing polychondritis presented with a unilateral large bullous exudative retinal detachment and marked choroidal and scleral thickening bilaterally.

CONCLUSIONS

Ophthalmologists should consider relapsing polychondritis in the differential diagnosis of exudative retinal detachment. A combination of echographic and laboratory findings can assist in the accurate diagnosis of this rare condition.