Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Congenital rubella syndrome is characterised by a triad of sensorineural deafness, congenital cataracts and cardiac defects. Up to 62% of affected patients exhibit bilateral pigmentary retinopathy which is typically regarded as non-progressive in adults [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. We demonstrate a case of progressive rubella retinopathy in a 51-year-old female patient. Fundus autofluorescence imaging shows bilateral extra-foveal atrophic patches (long arrows) gradually increasing in size over 5 years. A new atrophic patch also develops within an area of a previous hyperautofluorescent subretinal deposit (short arrow). Progression of outer retinal atrophy towards the fovea may be visually impairing and should be considered when counselling patients regarding long term prognosis. Differential diagnosis of macular outer retinal atrophy includes geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration, for which novel therapies have recently been approved. Accurate diagnosis is key, as these treatments are unlikely to be effective in rubella retinopathy but would expose the patient to the risks of treatment.
Source: Eye
Authors: Shahanaz B. Ahmed, Peter Charbel Issa
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,590
OpenAlex ID: W4407676683