Retinal arterial macroaneurysm in leukemia

Abstract

Introduction:

Retinal arterial macroaneurysm (RAM) is an acquired vascular dilatation usually seen at the site of arterial bifurcation or arterial-vein crossing. It’s often seen in the first three branches of the central retinal artery.

Case description:

A 15-year-old male patient was admitted to the outpatient clinic with complaints of weakness, headache, and bruising on the body for a few weeks. During the physical examination, a hepatomegaly and a common patchy ecchymosis in the body were detected at the abdominal examination. Hemoglobin was 6.6 g/dl, white blood cells were 40,000/mm³, platelet was 24,000/mm³ at the whole blood count done. The 70% blast was detected in peripheral spread. Bone marrow aspiration evaluation was consistent with pre-B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. There was two macroaneurysms in the inferior arcuate of the left eye. The patient was examined on a weekly basis. During control examinations, retinal macroaneurysms in left eye and the hemorrhages significantly regressed.

Conclusion and importance:

The fact that RAM is not often seen in the pediatric age group, indicates the importance of this phenomenon. It should be remembered that a complete ophthalmic examination should be performed on leukemia patients.