Purpose:
To show the importance of noninvasive imaging with fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in a series of previously misdiagnosed cases involving choroidal, RPE, and retinal pathology.
Methods:
Seven cases were retrospectively reviewed. Fundus photos were obtained using the Zeiss FF450 plus camera. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images were obtained using the Heidelberg Spectralis HRA+OCT.
Results:
All 7 cases were originally misdiagnosed by primary eyecare providers. Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging supplemented the information obtained based on the history and physical examination to establish the diagnosis in all 7 cases. Final diagnoses included bilateral diffuse uveal melanocytic proliferation (BDUMP) (see figure), retinitis pigmentosa ( 2 cases), multifocal choroiditis with panuveitis, acute posterior multifocal placoid pigment epitheliopathy (APMPPE), choroidal hemangioma, and idiopathic macular telangiectasia (MACTEL).
Conclusions:
Fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging can be a rapid, useful and complementary tool to establish the final diagnosis not only in diseases of RPE but also diseases of choroid and retina. It is a simple and noninvasive method that can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.
Keywords: imaging/image analysis: clinical • retina • choroid