A Case Of Eales Disease Preceding Pulmonary Tuberculosis In Fiji

Claude Posala

Pacific Eye Institute, Colonial War Memorial Hospital, Suva, Fiji

Purpose
To report a case of Eales disease in an Indian male from Fiji. There were no previous published reports on Eales disease in the Fiji population. Eales disease is commonly reported in the Indian subcontinent predominantly in males between ages 20 to 35. Eales disease has also been described in the context of and following tuberculosis.

Method
A 16 year old male of Indian origin was diagnosed with Eales disease in 2000. Past medical records over 10 years provided anecdotal evidence on the diagnosis. Documentation of bilateral retinal changes characteristic of Eales disease were present.
Sputum positive pulmonary tuberculosis diagnosed in 2002.

Results
Oral Prednisolone initiated on first visit with Betnesol eye drops. Patient completed 6 months of Tuberculosis treatment in 2002.

Laser therapy not provided in 2000. Lack of vitreoretinal services was crucial in this case.
At age 26 the right eye developed tractional retinal detachment and dense cataract with no perception to light. The left eye has retinal fibrous bands with non-refractable 6/36 vision.

Conclusion
Eales disease may be more prevalent in Fiji than expected due to the large Indian population. Appropriate attention is needed for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent blindness. Availability of laser photocoagulation and vitrectomies are integral parts of treatment.