The "pitchfork sign" a distinctive optical coherence tomography finding in inflammatory choroidal neovascularization

Retina. 2013 May;33(5):1049-55. doi: 10.1097/IAE.0b013e31827e25b8.

Abstract

Purpose: To report four examples of a novel optical coherence tomography finding, which appears to be characteristic of inflammatory choroidal neovascularization.

Methods: Retrospective observational case series.

Results: Four eyes of four patients were diagnosed clinically with inflammatory choroidal neovascularization and underwent optical coherence tomography. In each case, imaging revealed multiple, distinctive finger-like projections extending from the area of active choroidal neovascularization into the outer retina-the "pitchfork sign"--a finding not typically seen in Type 2 neovascularization due to other etiologies.

Conclusion: The pitchfork sign may help distinguish inflammatory choroidal neovascularization from other causes of Type 2 neovascularization.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence*
  • Young Adult