Bilateral Choroidal Detachments Associated with Perinuclear Anti-Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (P-ANCA) - Associated Vasculitis

Ocul Immunol Inflamm. 2024 Jan 9:1-4. doi: 10.1080/09273948.2023.2295535. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Purpose: To report an uncommon, isolated presentation of bilateral choroidal detachments in a patient diagnosed with P-ANCA-associated vasculitis and to highlight the importance of an inflammatory work-up in such cases.

Methods: Case report.

Results: A 70-year-old male with a past medical history of autoimmune hepatitis presented with a sudden decrease in vision in both eyes. Over the course of the previous decade, he had experienced recurrent attacks of episcleritis, which were successfully managed with topical corticosteroid eye drops. The patient was diagnosed with bilateral detachments without accompanying scleritis or intraocular inflammation. Inflammatory markers revealed high P-ANCA and anti-MPO levels, confirming the diagnosis of P-ANCA-associated vasculitis. Treatment with systemic rituximab and corticosteroids led to the resolution of the choroidal detachment in both eyes. A 40-month follow-up confirmed the sustained resolution of the detachments.

Conclusion: Choroidal detachment without other extraocular/intraocular inflammation can be associated with P-ANCA-associated vasculitis, a previously under-reported link. It is important to consider an inflammatory work-up for patients presenting with choroidal detachment to rule out conditions like P-ANCA-associated vasculitis.

Keywords: Autoimmune disease; P-ANCA-associated vasculitis; case report; choroidal detachments; rituximab.