VOTW: Seeing Things from a Different Angle

HPI

A 58-year-old male presents with decreased vision in the left eye for 4 days. He says he is only able to see shadows through the left eye. Vital signs are within normal limits. Physical exam reveals a fixed pupil in the left eye with significantly decreased visual acuity.

Ultrasound

POCUS reveals complete retinal detachment and posterior lens dislocation (arrow) in the affected eye.

Scanning technique

  • Use a high-frequency linear probe 

  • Avoid excessive pressure on the eye

  • Do not perform ocular ultrasound if there is suspicion for globe rupture

Lens dislocation on ultrasound

  • Subluxation is characterized by deviation of one side of the lens where it has separated from the iris

  • In complete dislocation, the lens can be found within the posterior chamber or vitreous body moving freely with eye movements

  • Dislocation into the anterior chamber is also possible

  • Ocular ultrasound is highly accurate for diagnosing lens dislocation, with a sensitivity of 96.8% and specificity of 99.4% compared to CT imaging

Case Conclusion

This patient was transferred to Kings County for ophthalmology evaluation. 

References

Happy scanning!