Photo description: PIC scars as seen via a photograph of the back of the eye. Photo credit: The PIC Society (linked).
Photo description: PIC scars as seen protruding via an OCT scan. Photo credit: The PIC Society (linked).
Punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC) is a rare disease and form of posterior uveitis, where inflammation attacks the back of the eye. If not treated promptly, PIC can threaten sight by damaging the retina and choroid. The disease appears to mostly affect young, short-sighted women.
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Symptoms of PIC include;
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blurred vision
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blind spots (Scotoma),
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flickering or flashing lights (Photopsia)
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distorted/wavy images (Metamorphopsia).
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Over time, the inflammation may cause permanent scars which result in blind spots in a PIC patient's vision. New blood vessels (‘choroidal neovascular membrane’, or ‘CNV’) may grow in the spaces created by the leisons, and can cause further visual problems.
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It is not known what causes PIC, but there is some evidence suggesting it to be an autoimmune disease, where the body mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the eye.
It is imperative that changes which may suggest PIC, or changes in those that already have PIC are investigated immediately, as treatment may be needed and should not be delayed.
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Treatments are aimed at resolving inflammation and treeating new blood vessels. This may include; oral steroids, steroid implant, anti-VEGF injections and immunosuppressant medication.
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PIC is a rare disease and at present, there is little research into it (in comparison to other eye diseases). However, resesearchers and eye specialists are continuing to investigate PIC, it's causes and potential treatments.
All information for this page was gathered from the following links:
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https://www.rnib.org.uk/eye-health/eye-conditions/uveitis
https://www.macularsociety.org/punctate-inner-choroidopathy