Ultrawidefield imaging aids in the early detection and management of acute retinal necrosis

Acute retinal necrosis (ARN) is a rare and rapidly progressive disease characterised by the development of panuveitis and peripheral retinal lesions. These lesions can often be missed during a routine fundoscopic examination, making the early diagnosis of ARN a considerable challenge. This case report describes the utilisation of ultrawidefield (UWF) imaging in the early detection of peripheral lesions associated with ARN in a male patient in his late 60s, who presented with acute blurred vision and a documented history of herpes zoster ophthalmicus. During a comprehensive eye examination and UWF imaging, panuveitis and peripheral lesions were identified, eventually leading to a diagnosis of ARN. The early initiation of antiviral therapy led to a gradual clinical improvement over 3–4 months. The utilisation of serial UWF imaging played a critical role in the prompt diagnosis and effective monitoring of disease progression, thereby potentially improving the patient’s outcome.