Retinal Pigment Epithelial Detachment Associated with Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy: A Case Report

Abstract

Uveitis and scleritis are eye diseases associated with immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy, but reports on retinal pigment epithelial detachment (PED) in relation to IgA nephropathy are scarce. We have experienced a case of PED associated with IgA nephropathy that was improved by pulse steroid treatment. A 68-year-old woman underwent examination for visual loss in the right eye. Her corrected visual acuity was 20/20 on both sides, and serous PED was observed in both eyes. One month later, the PED improved in both eyes but recurred 3 months later. Results of blood examination raised suspicion of IgA nephropathy, and she was referred to a nephrologist. Two weeks later, the PED in both eyes worsened, and a retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) tear appeared in the right eye. A sub-Tenon’s injection of triamcinolone acetonide was performed to address the PED, but it was not effective; thus, pulse steroid therapy was performed twice. The PED disappeared from both eyes, and the visual acuity in her left eye was maintained at 20/20, but it decreased to 20/200 in her right eye due to macular atrophy after the RPE tear. The PED had not recurred despite having no improvement in renal function. In conclusion, in IgA nephropathy, deposition of immune complexes on the RPE causes its inflammation, which may lead to PED. In cases of unexplained PED, the possibility of a systemic disease as the cause should be considered.

Keywords

• pigment epithelial detachment
• iga nephropathy
• pulse steroid therapy
• retinal pigment epithelium tear