Bilateral atypical nodular posterior scleritis.

PURPOSE: To evaluate ocular features of nodular posterior scleritis simulating choroidal melanoma.

METHODS

A 60-year old woman presented with blurred vision in her right eye of two weeks duration. On examination she had a mild right-globe proptosis with an episcleral nodular mass as well as a large elevated nonpigmented choroidal mass involving the nasal quadrant.

RESULTS

A and B-scan ultrasonography showed a medium to high-reflective solid choroidal mass. MRI demonstrated a bi-convex mass in the medial aspect of the right globe with signal characteristics compatible with choroidal melanoma. Biopsy of the extraocular lesion demonstrated chronic inflammatory cell infiltrate suggestive of posterior scleritis. She responded to corticosteroid therapy. On evaluation 41 months later she was noted to have a similar choroidal mass in the left eye.

CONCLUSIONS

The physician should be aware of the clinical manifestations and diagnostic hall marks of nodular posterior scleritis in order to differentiate this inflammatory process from choroidal melanoma.