Solar Retinopathy: Case Report

Presentation of Case: ALPN, 29 years old, male, with cognitive deficit that started after a car accident that occurred at the age of 6 years, attends the ophthalmology clinic of the University Hospital Antônio Pedro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with complaints of decreased visual acuity and metamorphopsia in both eyes (AO) started approximately 8 months ago. Family members reported that after the accident, the patient had the habit of spending mornings and afternoons looking at the sun.

Discussion: Solar retinopathy is caused by the photochemical and thermal effects of ultraviolet radiation on retinal cells, especially in the outer retina and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). Symptoms can start a few hours after direct observation of the sun, and in most cases a bilateral involvement, although asymmetrically with variable visual acuity.

Conclusions: A Solar retinopathy has a multifactorial origin, as it is related to the exposure time and the susceptibility of each individual. The use of hats and sunglasses with protection against ultraviolet rays and anti-reflection are effective preventive measures to be adopted if there is a need for exposure and observation of sunlight.