Immediate Manifestation of Ocular Decompression Retinopathy following Anterior Chamber Paracentesis

Abstract

Ocular decompression retinopathy (ODR) is a complication of rapid lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP) resulting in hemorrhages in multiple retinal layers. We report a case of ODR that developed within minutes following anterior chamber paracentesis in an adult female with primary open-angle glaucoma. A 61-year-old Black woman with primary open-angle glaucoma presented with marked elevation of IOP (46 mm Hg in the right eye and 30 mm Hg in the left) despite maximal medical therapy and bilateral selective laser trabeculoplasty. Vision in the right eye decreased from counting fingers at 3 feet 1 week earlier to no light perception at the time of presentation. Anterior chamber paracentesis was performed on the right eye to reduce IOP and stabilize the eye until further surgical intervention could be performed. IOP in the right eye decreased to 6 mm Hg postoperatively. Within minutes of the procedure, several intraretinal blot hemorrhages appeared in the periphery of the right eye. During this time, visual acuity remained at no light perception. The findings were consistent with decompression retinopathy. By 12 weeks postoperatively, the ODR had resolved with visual acuity of light perception and normal fundoscopy except for profound cupping. Our case demonstrates how rapidly ocular decompression can form following IOP reduction.