Visual loss in pregnancy

Ocular posterior pole pathological modifications related to complicated pregnancy. A review

Ocular posterior pole modification are a pathological manifestation in complicated pregnancies, especially when pregnancy induced hypertension is present (PIH), as well as in preeclampsia (PE) or eclampsia. Nonetheless, as the pregnancy evolves, the possibility for an aggravated evolution with HELLP syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura may have an ocular manifestation that, mainly, implies a loss of visual field or acuity, that, left unattended, may constitute a permanent impairment. Pregestational conditions like pituitary adenoma or genetic pedigree for complement factor H gene (1q31.1) single nucleotide mutations could lead to central serous chorioretinopathy or retinal detachment with severe, ischemic, central cilioretinal artery or vein occlusion and optic nerve atrophy. Furthermore, although subtle in many cases, any new visual symptoms during pregnancy should constitute an alarming factor for obstetrical reevaluation and ophthalmological approach in order to preserve the mother's quality of life.