IgA Nephropathy Associated Hypertensive Retinopathy and Purtscher-Like Retinopathy

Abstract

Purpose: Purtscher-like retinopathy is a condition similar to Purtscher’s retinopathy but results from non-traumatic causes. Although its pathophysiology is not fully understood, it is thought to be related to the complement system. Renal diseases, which play a significant role in secondary hypertension, are known to be important in its etiology. Methods: Observational case report. Results: A 22-year-old man initially presented with vision-related findings, including both hypertensive retinopathy and Purtscher-like retinopathy, and on further investigation was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy with C3 immunocomplexes, a combination of poor prognostic factors, and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Conclusions: The presence of both hypertensive retinopathy and Purtscher-like retinopathy in our patient indicates an advanced stage of ocular involvement. This emphasizes the critical role of ocular findings in the differential diagnosis and severity of systemic diseases.