Retinal Dialysis and Associated Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 1: a Case Series

Abstract

Purpose: Although ophthalmic manifestations of neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), including iris Lisch nodules and optic gliomas, have been well described, retinal involvement in these patients has yet to be established. Characterizing the relationship between NF1 and the retina is necessary to optimize outcomes for these patients.

Methods: Independent chart review of NF1 patients was conducted.

Results: Chart review yielded four patients, with a history of NF1, with subsequent retinal dialysis and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. These four patients presented to our institution with a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment secondary to a retinal dialysis with no history of trauma. These patients also demonstrated hyperreflective choroidal abnormalities on near-infrared reflectance imaging and optical coherence tomography.

Conclusion: Seeing that patients diagnosed with NF1 are susceptible to various ocular manifestations and pathological abnormalities, routine ophthalmic examinations are essential in maintaining their ocular health and minimizing morbidity.