Current advances in punctate inner choroidopathy

Abstract

Punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) is a rare inflammatory multifocal choroidopathy,which belongs to the white dot syndrome.The pathogenesis of PIC is still not clear.It may result from an immunogenetic predisposition and the development of an inappropriately directed immune response.PIC affects predominantly young moderately myopic women and is characterized by the presence of multiple,small,yellow-white fundus lesions frequently limited to the posterior pole in the absence of signs for anterior uveitis or hyalitis.Most patients with PIC do not require treatment because of its favorable prognosis.However,choroidal neovascularization (CNV),the primary complication of PIC,sometimes causes permanent severe vision loss.Treatment modalities that have been used to manage patients with PIC and CNV include corticosteroids,other immunosuppressant agents,photodynamic therapy,submacular surgery and,most recently,anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.In this article,the definition,historical background,pathogenesis,pathology,clinical features,diagnosis and differential diagnosis,management and prognosis of PIC are reviewed. Key words: Choroiditis,inner; Choroidal neovascularization; Bevacizumab; Photochemotherapy