Multimodal imaging of valsalva petaloid maculopathy secondary to acute laryngospasm and endotracheal intubation

Abstract

Purpose:

To report the multimodal imaging findings associated to Valsalva retinopathy following acute laryngospasm and endotracheal intubation.

Methods:

Case report and literature review.

Results:

Acute laryngospasm led to pulmonary edema which necessitated endotracheal intubation. Upon extubation the patient complained of bilateral scotomata due to Valsalva retinopathy. Multimodal imaging localizes the precise anatomic site of the intraocular hemorrhages. Petaloid hemorrhages are typical of Henle fiber layer involvement. All the hemorrhages spontaneously cleared without any sequelae.

Conclusion:

Patients with acute laryngospasm and endotracheal intubation may develop Valsalva retinopathy. Multimodal imaging localize the hemorrhages to the specific anatomic site which is important in determining the different management options.