Circumferential macular folds associated with reduced macular hemorrhages in non-accidental trauma: implications for the theory of vitreous traction

Abstract

References Results Methods Conclusion Discussion The direct intraocular mechanisms and forces required to create retinal hemorrhages in non-accidental head injury remain a matter of controversy and conjecture. The predominant theory implicates vitreous traction on retinal vessels; however, retinal hemorrhages occur in other settings without history of rapid acceleration-deceleration injury, such as in healthy newborns. Circumferential macular folds are seen almost exclusively in severe non-accidental trauma. We sought to document the pattern of retinal hemorrhages relative to macular folds to determine if the altered vitreoretinal interface may influence the formation of retinal hemorrhages.