Abstract
Autoimmune polyglandular Syndrome Type 1 (APS-1) is an autoimmune disease due to defects in the AIRE gene. It is characterized by a triad of hypoparathyroidism, mucocutaneous candidiasis, and Addison’s disease. We present a case of pigmented paravenous retinochoroidal atrophy associated with APS-1. Case description: A 14 year old female who was admitted for cramps in her hands secondary to hypocalcemia. Past medical history is significant for recurrent vaginal candidiasis and panic attacks. Laboratory assessment revealed low parathyroid hormone and hypocalcemia confirming the diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism. After 4 months she presented with vomiting, and dizziness. Serum cortisol levels were low consistent with the diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency. Further evaluation revealed a mutation in the APS-1 gene. At 28 years she presented with complaints of blurred vision and blind spots for a year. Initial ophthalmologic evaluation revealed a visual acuity of 20/60 in the right eye and 20/50 in the left eye. Anterior segment assessment was normal. Fundoscopy revealed presence of speculated pigment and atrophy of the macula long with attenuated retinal vessels. Optical coherence tomography did not show any macular edema. Visual field assessment was normal. She was diagnosed with pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy. Anti-retinal antibodies were positive for 30-kDa, 36-kDa, 40-kDa, and 46-kDa confirming the autoimmune etiology of the disorder. Over the next 2 years, her visual acuity decreased to 20/400 in the right eye and 20/80 in the left eye. Conclusion: APS-1 is a rare disease associated with numerous autoimmune disorders, beyond the classic clinical triad. Pigmented paravenous chorioretinal atrophy is a previously unreported manifestation of APS-1. Unfortunately no definitive treatment exists for retinal degeneration.
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