Reversible retinoschisis following high voltage electrical injury evaluated with optical coherence tomography and electrophysiology

PURPOSE: To report a carefully studied case of high voltage electrical injury of the retina and optic nerve with anatomically reversible retinoschisis. METHODS: Observational case report. RESULTS: A 22 year old power company worker was electrocuted with 12,000 V, with his left forehead being the exit point of the current. After regaining consciousness he reported decreased vision with both eyes. He was extensively tested with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and angiography (OCT-A), fundus photography, fluorescein angiography (FA), multifocal electroretinography (mfERG), full field electroretinography (ffERG), visual evoked potentials (VEP), and Goldmann-type Octopus automated perimetry in addition to careful clinical examinations. Our investigations revealed severe visual field constriction in both eyes, severe coagulative damage leading to inner and outer retinal atrophy, subretinal fluid collection, retinoschisis cavities, and papillitis. Initially he was treated with 100 mg prednisone per day for one week and 250 mg acetazolamide per day which was continued for 3 months. Over time the OCT signs of retinoschisis resolved but visual acuity and visual field improvement did not occur. CONCLUSION: Resolution of retinoschisis cavities following electrical damage does not necessarily lead to improvement in visual function due to the many accompanying structural injuries.