Retinopathy Secondary to Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Dr. Ashish Ahuja, Dr. Kailash Prasad, Dr. Apurva Navale, Dr. Arjun Ahuja

Abstract: Introduction Retinopathy is a frequent finding in anaemic and thrombocytopenic patients. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in a acute alcoholic liver disease is a rare cause of retinopathy. Case report A 40 years old, alcoholic male patient presented to us with 4 days sudden onset diminished visionin both eyes (B. E. ). Ocular examination showed bilateral retinopathy with haemorrhages. Investigations revealed megaloblastic anaemia and thrombocytopenia complicated with DIC secondary to alcoholic liver disease. He was treated with heparin, packed red cells and platelet concentrates. On follow up with the improvement of his blood profile the retinopathy completely resolved. Conclusion Extensive investigations should be done for patients with retinopathy related to blood disorders to find the exact cause. A combined approach with the treating physician is needed to effectively manage such patients. Prognosis of retinopathy such as in our case is usually good with the correction of the platelet count and the haematocrit levels.

Keywords: Anaemia, retinopathy, thrombocytopenia, disseminated intravascular coagulation