Torpedo Maculopathy Associated with Choroidal Neovascularization

Klin Monbl Augenheilkd. 2017 Apr;234(4):508-514. doi: 10.1055/s-0043-100230. Epub 2017 May 3.

Abstract

Background Torpedo maculopathy is a very rare, congenital, usually unilateral hypopigmented lesion in the temporal macula. Material and Methods This retrospective case series describes three patients with torpedo maculopathy. Results The first two cases demonstrate typical clinical and imaging findings of torpedo maculopathy in asymptomatic patients. The third case relates to a symptomatic young patient with a torpedo lesion, a smaller satellite lesion, and evidence of choroidal neovascularization confirmed by fluorescence angiography. In the area of the clinically visible torpedo lesion, spectral domain optical coherence tomography showed atrophy of the outer retina with increased choroidal signalling and a hyperreflective lesion above the retinal pigment epithelium suggestive of choroidal neovascularization. Fundus autofluorescence imaging revealed a hyperautofluorescent rim along the margin of the hypoautofluorescent torpedo lesion. Conclusion In the literature, torpedo lesions are usually regarded as benign lesions with no tendency for progression. The third case demonstrates that torpedo lesions may be associated with choroidal neovascularization, which has been successfully treated with anti-VEGF therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / complications
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / diagnostic imaging*
  • Choroidal Neovascularization / pathology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Rare Diseases / diagnosis
  • Rare Diseases / pathology
  • Retinal Diseases / congenital
  • Retinal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Retinal Diseases / pathology*
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / abnormalities*
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / diagnostic imaging*
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / pathology