Bilateral Solar Retinopathy After Gazing at the Great American Eclipse

Abstract

Purpose:

We report a case of bilateral solar retinopathy following the Great American Eclipse on August 21, 2017. We summarize findings on multimodal imaging and risk factors associated with solar retinopathy.

Methods:

A teenage boy presented with painless vision loss 4 days following viewing a total solar eclipse. Funduscopic examination, optical coherence tomography, and fluorescein angiography revealed findings characteristic of solar retinopathy. Multifocal electroretinography was also performed. We add to the literature the first reported case of solar retinopathy following the Great American Eclipse.

Results:

The patient was observed with serial examinations over several weeks. Gradual trend toward visual recovery was noted on imaging.

Conclusions:

In combination with clinical history of sungazing and funduscopic examination, distinct findings on imaging help secure a diagnosis of solar retinopathy. Visual symptoms in solar retinopathy generally improve over time. Appropriate protective measures with counseling and filtered eyewear are recommended for eclipse viewers.