Choroidal Hemangioma in a Black Patient With Sturge-Weber Syndrome: Challenges in Diagnosis

Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019 Mar 1;50(3):183-186. doi: 10.3928/23258160-20190301-09.

Abstract

A black teenager presented with long-standing vision loss in his right eye. Clinical exam revealed increased conjunctival vascularity and total exudative retinal detachment of the right eye. Ultrasound imaging demonstrated a choroidal mass with moderate-to-high reflectivity consistent with a choroidal hemangioma. A closer external examination demonstrated a subtle reddish hue of the eyelids and cheek, consistent with a nevus flammeus. MRI of the brain revealed a T2 enhancing vascular mass. Collectively, these findings were consistent with Sturge-Weber Syndrome. This case highlights the need for a high degree of suspicion for Sturge-Weber Syndrome in dark-skinned individuals that can otherwise mask the nevus flammeus. Physical exam findings and radiographic evidence can be used to guide the diagnosis. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:183-186.].

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Black People*
  • Choroid Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Hemangioma / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Sturge-Weber Syndrome*