Retinal Reactive Astrocytic Tumor and Astrocytic hamartomas in patient with Neurofibromatosis type 1: Case Report and Literature review

Abstract

Introduction Neurofibromatosis type I, also known as Von Recklinghausen disease, is a common phakomatosis affecting 1 in 2500–3000 live births; it may be associated with several common ocular findings, including Lisch nodules, plexiform neurofibromas, optic pathway gliomas, retinal astrocytic hamartomas and choroidal nodules. Case description This report illustrates clinical evidence of simultaneous presence of retinal reactive astrocytic tumor (RRAT) and two retinal astrocytic hamartomas (RAH) in a 15 y/o patient with NF1, referred to our attention because of an asymptomatic fundus mass in his right eye of recent onset. Conclusion This case, in addition to considering NF1 as one of the ocular conditions associated with secondary RRAT, underlines the importance of early referral and continuous ophthalmological follow-up in preventing possible complications that could cause significant visual impairment in patients with NF1.