Optical coherence tomography angiography reveals vascular alterations in pediatric commotio retinae

Abstract

Introduction: Aim of this study is to present the acute and long-term swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography findings in pediatric commotio retinae. Materials and methods: Two children presented with reduced visual acuity and Berlin edema after blunt trauma. Results: Swept-source optical coherence tomography revealed hyperreflectivity of the retinal nerve fiber layer and disruption of the ellipsoid zone and the retinal pigment epithelium. Swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography showed enlarged superficial foveal avascular zone in both cases. In the more severe case, there was enlargement of both superficial and deep foveal avascular zone, and reduction of the superficial vascular plexus density. Conclusion: The present findings suggest that pediatric commotio retinae may be associated with retinal vascular changes, that is, foveal avascular zone enlargement and decreased vessel density. The extent of the microvascular alterations is possibly related to trauma severity. © The Author(s) 2020.