Roth Spots in Sickle Cell Trait: Association or Chance Spot

Abstract

Roth spots are white-centred retinal haemorrhages that are a hallmark of infective endocarditis caused by septic emboli inside the retina [1-3]. Several theories have been postulated on the pathophysiology, but the most widely recognised is that endothelial cell dysfunction causes retinal capillary rupture and intraretinal haemorrhage due to platelet-fibrin plugs. Visual disruption caused by Roth spots is uncommon but can occur when the macula is involved. Treatment is frequently supportive and directed at the underlying reason. Sickle cell trait (AS pattern) is a benign disorder characterised by only one defective haemoglobin beta gene allele in the affected individual. These individuals do not have sickling symptoms and, as a result, have a higher quality of life than patients with sickle cell disease [2,3].

Keywords

• haemorrhages
• retinopathy
• sickle cell anaemia