Spontaneous regression of retinal astrocytic hamartoma in a patient with tuberous sclerosis.

PURPOSE: To report the complete regression of a retinal astrocytic hamartoma in conjunction with tuberous sclerosis.

DESIGN

Observational case report.

METHODS

A 12-year-old boy with tuberous sclerosis, diagnosed early in life, was found to have a retinal astrocytic hamartoma in his left eye. He had bilateral optic atrophy because of long-standing increased intracranial pressure due to a cerebral giant cell astrocytoma. He was followed on a yearly basis with fundus photography and fluorescein angiography.

RESULTS

At the time of initial presentation, the minimally elevated intraretinal tumor measured 2 x 1.5 mm. A year later, the same tumor measured 1.5 x 1 mm. Two years after initial presentation, the tumor totally disappeared.

CONCLUSION

This patient has demonstrated that retinal astrocytic hamartoma may undergo spontaneous regression.