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Pathogenesis of Purtscher's retinopathy

An experimental study

  • Laboratory investigations
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Abstract

Laboratory and clinical observations have implicated microparticles in the pathogenesis of Purtscher's retinopathy, which leads to the occlusion of small arterioles. These microparticles may be caused by aggregated leukocyte platelets or fibrin clots. The phenonomen of intravascular coagulation is well known following trauma or acute pancreatitis. Purtscher's retinopathy is linked with both diseases. To support this presumed pathogenesis of Purtscher's retinopathy, fibrin clots ranging in size from 0.15 to 1.0 mm were injected into the ophthalmic artery of the pig. They resulted in superficial and deep retinal infarctions. In addition, flame-shaped and spotted hemorrhages occurred. These retinal changes are characteristic of Purtscher's retinopathy.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Augenklinik, Universität Göttingen, Robert-Koch-Strasse 40, W-3400, Göttingen, Federal Republic of Germany

    W. Behrens-Baumann & G. Scheurer

  2. Max-Planck-Institut für Experimentelle Medizin, Hermann-Rein-Strasse 3, W-3400, Göttingen, Federal Republic of Germany

    H. Schroer

Authors
  1. W. Behrens-Baumann
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  2. G. Scheurer
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  3. H. Schroer
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This study was supported by a grant from Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG no. Be 1043)

Offprint requests to: W. Behrens-Baumann

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Behrens-Baumann, W., Scheurer, G. & Schroer, H. Pathogenesis of Purtscher's retinopathy. Graefe's Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 230, 286–291 (1992). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00176306

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00176306

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