Case 32 — Ophthalmology Consult

Synopsis (Findings)

  • Pupillary responses to light were slow and slight; both pupils were widely mydriatic in room light.
  • Right eye: Cursory exam of the ocular anterior segment did not reveal abnormalities. The ocular fundus had marked retinal vessel attenuation and marked tapetal hyperreflectivity.
  • Left eye: Similar to right eye.
  • Mickey has advanced, diffuse retinal degeneration which is compatible with either long term (probably at least a year) taurine deficiency or heritable progressive retinal degeneration. No treatment would be of benefit and even if taurine was the culprit and could be reinstated, the degeneration is too far advanced for improvement.