Differential Diagnosis of Blood in Multiple Retinal Layers: Terson Syndrome Mimicking Valsalva Retinopathy
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: PURPOSE: To describe a case of multilayer intraocular hemorrhage initially suspected to be Valsalva retinopathy but ultimately diagnosed as Terson syndrome. METHODS: Clinical examination and diagnostic imaging were performed, and a focused literature review of conditions associated with multilayer retinal hemorrhage was conducted. RESULTS: A 33-year-old male presented with vitreous, intraretinal, and subretinal hemorrhage. Although initial history suggested Valsalva retinopathy, further questioning revealed recent head trauma. Head CT demonstrated a parafalcine subdural hematoma consistent with Terson syndrome, and the patient was admitted for neurosurgical management. CONCLUSION: Multilayer retinal hemorrhage warrants thorough history-taking and urgent imaging to distinguish Terson syndrome from mimickers such as Valsalva retinopathy.
Source: Retinal Cases & Brief Reports
Institution: University of Illinois Chicago
Language: English
Topic: Retinal and Macular Surgery
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7128775950
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