Objective: To analyze the ocular findings in aplastic anemia.
Design: Eighteen patients with aplastic anemia were examined.
Results: Ocular findings included cotton wool spots (38%), nerve fiber layer or preretinal hemorrhages (67%), vitreous hemorrhages (13%), a picture resembling central retinal vein occlusion (13%) and optic disk edema (6%). Preretinal hemorrhages were the presenting sign of aplastic anemia in 2 patients (13%).
Conclusions: A blood profile is needed in patients with unexplained retinal hemorrhages. Patients with aplastic anemia need to avoid ocular massage and Valsalva maneuvers to decrease ocular morbidity.
Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.