Frosted Branch Angiitis–Like Retinal Vasculitis Developing After Scleral Buckle Surgery

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of frosted branch angiitis–like retinal vasculitis that developed after scleral buckle surgery. Methods: A single case was evaluated. Results: Five days after nondrainage scleral buckle surgery with a segmental buckle and encircling band, an otherwise healthy 39-year-old man presented with frosted branch angiitis. Treatment initially involved oral corticosteroids. After 5 days of treatment, there was a decrease in the subretinal exudation; however, the break appeared to be lifting with persistent subretinal fluid. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicone oil (SO) injection was performed. A vitreous biopsy was taken during the PPV that was negative for bacterial, fungal, and viral markers. The patient’s blood and urine culture showed no microbial growth, ruling out an infectious cause. Ultimately, the SO was removed, with a good visual outcome. Conclusions: Although the cause is unknown, retinal vasculitis can occur after scleral buckle surgery, albeit rarely.