Laser photocoagulation of a hypofluorescent perifoveal exudative vascular anomalous complex/capillary macroaneurysm

Eur J Ophthalmol. 2023 Nov;33(6):NP87-NP91. doi: 10.1177/11206721221149064. Epub 2022 Dec 25.

Abstract

Purpose: To report successful treatment of a hypofluorescent perifoveal exudative vascular anomalous complex (PEVAC)/capillary macroaneurysm.

Case description: A 63 year old healthy gentleman had a perifoveal isolated aneurysmal lesion with white rim. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed cystoid macular edema (CME) with neurosensory detachment. The aneurysmal lesion was seen in the inner retina as a hyperreflective intraretinal structure with a heterogenous lumen suggestive of PEVAC/capillary macroaneurysm. OCT angiography showed a capillary loop and a slightly hyperreflective lesion at the tip of the loop in the superficial capillary plexus slab. Minimal reduction in edema was noted following one dose of intravitreal triamcinolone (2 mg). Fundus fluorescein angiography performed at 6 weeks demonstrated the capillary loop, but the aneurysmal lesion remained hypofluorescent with no definite leak in the late phase. Few perifoveal microaneurysms were seen in both the eyes. Six weeks later, focal laser photocoagulation of the aneurysmal lesion was performed, which resulted in complete resolution of macular edema at 1 month. There was no recurrence of macular edema till his recent follow up, which is 4 month post laser.

Discussion: PEVAC is typically described as unifocal lesion and is not associated with other retinal vascular abnormalities. But in this case, in addition to the lesion, perifoveal microaneurysms were seen in both the eyes. Despite the absence of leak on fundus fluorescein angiography, targeted focal laser photocoagulation resulted in complete resolution of macular edema at 1 month.

Conclusion: Laser photocoagulation would be helpful even in hypofluorescent PEVAC/capillary macroaneurysms.

Keywords: Fundus fluorescein angiography; capillary macroaneurysm; optical coherence tomography; perifoveal exudative vascular anomalous complex; targeted focal laser photocoagulation; triamcinolone acetonide.