Ocular manifestations of erythema nodosum in children (clinical case)

Abstract

Retinal disorders are the second leading cause of blindness and low vision in children. Early diagnosis and accurate interpretation of optic fundus abnormalities and novel diagnostic tools improve outcomes and prevent irreversible complications. Recently, the occurrence of atypical optic fundus pathology in children has increased. This requires correct differential diagnosis using modern non-invasive methods. Erythema nodosum (EN) is a rare condition that affects preschool children. This condition is characterized by acute or chronic deep dermal hypodermal skin vasculitis. Infectious diseases are considered as one of EN causes. EN is also associated with fungal diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease), hormone imbalance, sarcoidosis, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, medications. However, EN may occur as an isolated condition as well. Literature data on ocular manifestations of erythema nodosum are limited (episcleritis, pigment epitheliopathy). Acute bilateral neurochorioretinitis with serous MZ neuroepithelium detachment in a 5-year girl is of interest for clinicians, pediatricians, and ophthalmologists.

Keywords

• retina
• inflammation
• erythema nodosum
• children
• optical coherence tomography