Leukemic pseudohypopyon

Leukemic pseudohypopyon

Category(ies): Uveitis, Retina/Vitreous

Contributor: Lauren E. Hock, MD; James C. Folk, MD

Photographer: Sarah L. Skiles, CRA

Pseudohypopyon is a relatively rare manifestation of leukemia. It occurs most often in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and may be seen during a blast crisis or as a sign of relapse [1]. Rapid development of an atypical, blood-stained hypopyon that fails to respond to corticosteroid therapy is classic for leukemic pseudohypopyon [2]. Pseudohypopyon is distinguished from infectious or inflammatory hypopyon by the absence of an associated fibrin reaction. This pseudohypopyon was the first sign of this 56-year-old patient's acute lymphoblastic leukemia relapse. Timely anterior chamber aspiration with cytology and systemic malignancy work-up are paramount to ensuring appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

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Reference:

• Yi, D.H., et al., Acute unilateral leukemic hypopyon in an adult with relapsing acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Am J Ophthalmol, 2005. 139(4): p. 719-21.
• Ramsay, A. and S. Lightman, Hypopyon uveitis. Surv Ophthalmol, 2001. 46(1): p. 1-18.

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