Cases Journal


Open Access Case Report

A spontaneous suprachoroidal haemorrhage: a case report

Aman Chandra1*, Allon Barsam1 and Charles Hugkulstone2

Author Affiliations

1 Vitreoretinal department, Moorfields Eye Hospital, City Road, London, EC1V 2PD, UK

2 Department of Ophthalmology, Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup, Kent DA14 6LT, UK

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Cases Journal 2009, 2:185 doi:10.1186/1757-1626-2-185

Published: 6 November 2009

Abstract

Introduction

We present a case of spontaneous suprachoroidal haemorrhage in a patient taking Warfarin. This is only the second case reported of a patient whose anticoagulation was within the therapeutic range.

Case presentation

An 84 year old white male with a history of end stage atrophic age related macular degeneration presented with angle closure glaucoma. The patient was taking warfarin and had a therapeutic International Normalized Ratio (INR). Ultrasound examination revealed a spontaneous suprachoroidal haemorrhage.

Conclusion

Anticoagulation is common in those with cardiovascular disease, which increases the risk of haemorrhagic complications. These patients are also more likely to suffer from age related macular degeneration. Suprachoroidal haemorrhage should be considered in such patients presenting with suspicious signs and a low threshold should be had for investigating for this condition in such circumstances. Early detection may reduce the morbidity.