Purtscher-Like Retinopathy Secondary to Febrile Illnesses in Pediatric Patients: A Case Series.

Purpose: Purtscher-like retinopathy is a rare microvascular occlusive disease that has been reported in few literature especially in pediatric patients. The ocular manifestation is associated with various systemic disorders, though its distinct pathophysiology and appropriate therapies remain unclear. This research presents three cases of Purtscher-like retinopathy secondary to febrile illnesses in pediatric patients.

Methods: Medical history and clinical findings were retrospectively collected.

Results: We report a series of three pediatric patients (age range, 7-13 years) who developed Purtscher-like retinopathy, secondary to febrile illnesses, including systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis, thrombotic microangiopathy, and COVID-19 infection. All patients received steroidal therapy to control underlying conditions and ocular disease, with visual improvement in different degrees.

Conclusions: Clinician awareness of Purtscher-like retinopathy is crucial for the prompt diagnosis and treatment of pediatric patients with protracted high fevers and febrile viral illnesses.