Unilateral multiple serous retinal detachments secondary to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma responsive to systemic steroids

Eur J Ophthalmol. 2021 Sep;31(5):NP106-NP110. doi: 10.1177/1120672120934745. Epub 2020 Jun 17.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of unilateral multiple bullous neurosensory retina detachments (NRDs) secondary to non-Hodgkin's aggressive large B-cell lymphoma treated with chemotherapy and high doses of systemic steroids.

Methods: A case report based on patient observation, clinical records, and retinal imaging during 2 years of follow-up.

Results: A 26-year-old Hispanic man presented at our clinic with sudden unilateral visual loss and multiple NRDs in the left eye with increased choroidal thickness, 1 week after oral steroid treatment due to low back pain and fever. In the following days, a non-Hodgkin's aggressive large B-cell lymphoma was diagnosed. The patient underwent three cycles of chemotherapy (CHT) with protocol R-CHOP21 (including oral prednisone) with complete resolution of NRD. During 2 years of follow-up, no recurrence of NRD occurred, despite the need to continue CHT with oral steroids for a year due to lymphoma relapse.

Conclusion: Neurosensory retina detachments may be an initial manifestation of large B-cell lymphoma as a consequence of a pro-inflammatory state involving the chorioretinal structures, thus adding steroid treatment could be useful for its resolution.

Keywords: Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; serous retinal detachments; systemic steroids.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse* / complications
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse* / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse* / drug therapy
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin*
  • Male
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / drug therapy
  • Prednisone / therapeutic use
  • Retinal Detachment* / diagnosis
  • Retinal Detachment* / drug therapy
  • Retinal Detachment* / etiology

Substances

  • Prednisone