Spectral domain optical coherence tomography guided photodynamic therapy for choroidal hemangioma: a case report

INTRODUCTION: Circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas are vascular tumors associated with secondary changes in the overlying retinal pigment epithelium and neuro-sensory retina. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, a recent advancement in fundus imaging techniques provides high resolution images of the retina. We describe spectral domain Optical coherence tomography findings in a case of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma which was successfully treated with photodynamic therapy. CASE PRESENTATION: A 41-year-old white male presented with decreased vision in his right eye. Fundus evaluation showed findings consistent with circumscribed choroidal hemangioma. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography revealed a large serous retinal detachment overlying the tumor with an intact photoreceptor layer. The patient underwent photodynamic therapy and a repeat tomography scan confirmed the resolution of serous detachment with return of normal foveal contour. CONCLUSION: Spectral domain optical coherence tomography is an emerging modality in imaging of the retina and reveals ultrastructural changes occurring in various retina pathologies. In this case report we illustrate the use of spectral domain optical coherence tomography for the first time to document retinal changes overlying a choroidal hemangioma and its role as a non-invasive tool in planning the treatment and prognosticating the final visual outcome following treatment for circumscribed subfoveal choroidal hemangiomas.