Fig. 21.1
Anterior chamber aspirate stained with hematoxylin-eosin, showing a spherical erythrocyte with denaturized hemoglobin granule bound to the internal surface of the cell membrane (Heinz body)
The goal of treatment is to control IOP through medical management, while awaiting clearance of blood from the eye. Aqueous suppressants are generally used first, followed by alpha-agonists and prostaglandin analogues. Systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors can be added if necessary. In cases of active or continued retinal bleeding, it may be advisable to evaluate the patient’s coagulation status and, with input from an internist, hold anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Clearance of the ghost cells can take months, and patients should be seen frequently. If medical therapy fails, the problem should be managed surgically. Anterior chamber washout alone is generally sufficient, but posterior vitrectomy may be considered, depending upon the volume of vitreous hemorrhage [13, 39].
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