Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Anterior Scleritis With Ulcerative Colitis

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is an ocular emergency as it is sight-threatening and requires urgent surgical intervention. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an immune-mediated inflammatory bowel disease that can present with ocular manifestations. The objective of this case report is to share the rare presentation of RRD associated with UC leading to diagnosis and management dilemmas. A 35-year-old man with active UC presented with a right chronic red eye for two months. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 6/6 in both eyes (OU). On examination, sectoral inferotemporal anterior scleritis (AS) with subclinical inferior RRD with peripheral holes in the lattice at the 6 o'clock position was noted. There was no posterior vitreous detachment. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) delineated the RRD objectively and was non-progressive for nine months. Barricade laser was given, in addition to intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP), followed by a tapering dose of oral prednisolone and topical dexamethasone 0.1% over three months. Over a year, the scleritis resolved. However, six months later, while still on immunomodulating agents, the inferior RRD progressed on OCT. Segmental scleral buckle, indirect laser retinopexy, and subtenon triamcinolone injection were performed. IVMP 1 g per day was given for three days prior to surgery. Two months later, his BCVA was 6/6, with signs of fluid resorption and normal intraocular pressure. No recurrent AS was seen. Treatment of non-progressive, subclinical RRD patients with UC and active AS can be delayed with regular follow-up. When RRD progressed and there was no AS activity, it was the window of opportunity for the success of scleral buckle and perioperative steroids.