Acute syphilitic posterior placoid chorioretinitis following intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection.

BACKGROUND

We describe the ophthalmic features and clinical course of two cases of acute syphilitic posterior placoid chorioretinitis (ASPPC) that developed after intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) injection.

METHODS

Case report.

RESULTS

Two patients with ocular inflammation of unknown origin developed severe chorioretinitis after IVTA injection. Multiple retinal infiltrates, placoid subretinal lesions, and ground-glass opacity of the retina with hyperemic optic discs were observed in both patients. The etiology of the chorioretinitis was confirmed by serology to be syphilis. Appropriate treatment for neurosyphilis was instituted. Both eyes became atrophied and had poor visual outcome: 10/200 in one patient and no light perception in the other at 6 months after IVTA injection.

CONCLUSIONS

The fundus picture shown in these cases may be typical of ASPPC after IVTA injection. Clinical suspicion of ASPPC upon observation of these characteristic features is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment.