Rev Bras Oftalmol.2009;68(2):114-119
Purtscher’s and Purtscher-like retinopathies
DOI: 10.1590/S0034-72802009000200010
Purtscher’s retinopathy is a condition characterized by loss of vision within hours after an injury, especially thoracic. The term “Purtscher-like retinopathy” is used to describe a similar retinal appearance in a variety of conditions other than trauma. This condition have been reported in acute pancreatitis, lymphoproliferative disorders, chest compression, fat embolization, Valsalva maneuver, after retrobulbar anesthesia, and others. Fundus abnormalities include cotton-wool spots, retinal hemorrhage, non-capillary perfusion areas, and optic disk swelling. In this article we revise the ophthalmoscopic findings, the pattern of complimentary examinations and treatment indicated in each case.