Posterior Segment Characterization in Children With Pierson Syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Pierson syndrome is a rare genetic disease defined by congenital nephrotic syndrome in association with microcoria. The authors aim to describe the posterior segment and retinal features in Pierson syndrome. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective chart review of nine patients diagnosed with Pierson syndrome was ascertained. Details of ophthalmic history, ocular examination, retinal imaging, and surgical interventions were obtained during a median duration of 17 months of follow-up (range: 6 to 60 months). Retinal interventions included scatter laser photocoagulation and surgical retinal repair. RESULTS: Sixteen eyes of nine patients were included. The axial length of five eyes with flat retina was 26.59 mm +/- 0.99 mm. Highly myopic features including tessellated fundus with accompanying optic disc pallor, unidentifiable cup, and abnormal retinal vascular emanation from the disc were observed in all eyes (100%), whereas 12 eyes (75%) had parapapillary chorioretinal atrophy. Features of abnormal retinal vascularization included avascular peripheral retina on fluorescein angiography, aberrant course of the temporal arcades in 13 eyes (81.3%), and straightened nasal retinal blood vessels in 12 eyes (75%). Tortuous retinal blood vessels were observed in three eyes (18.75%). Surgical repair was performed in five out of seven eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Recurrence was observed in all eyes, which required two to three procedures to achieve final reattachment. CONCLUSIONS: Combined features of high axial myopia with incomplete peripheral vascular maturation characterize the posterior segment in Pierson syndrome. Careful posterior segment examination is essential to detect RRD or retinal neovascularization.