What is Birdshot Chorioretinopathy (BSC)?
Birdshot Chorioretinopathy is a distinctive and challenging condition involving inflammation of the choroid and retina. It is a form of Uveitis and requires in-depth and well-rounded care to ensure that the inflammatory symptoms are minimised. Our experienced medical team is dedicated to offering comprehensive insights, precise diagnosis, and personalized treatment plans for individuals navigating this complex disease.
What are the key clinical features of Birdshot Chorioretinopathy?
Birdshot Chorioretinopathy is characterised by the following clinical features:
- Distinctive Lesions: these are recognized by the presence of small, hypopigmented spots on the retina, resembling the pattern of birdshot pellets. [IMAGE]
- Bilateral Involvement: BSC typically affects both eyes, underscoring the importance of thorough evaluation and care for each eye.
- Chronic and Recurrent: BSC often manifests as a chronic condition with recurrent inflammation episodes that, if not effectively managed, may lead to gradual vision loss.
Optos Ultra-widefield Fundus Image showing the distinctive lesions of BSC
How do we diagnose Birdshot Chorioretinopathy?
At The Retina Clinic London, we employ advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately identify and understand Birdshot Chorioretinopathy. The following are just some of the key technologies and diagnostic techniques we use to diagnose BSC accurately:
Ultrawidefield Multi-Wavelength Fundus Photography: High-resolution imaging capturing detailed views of up to 80% of the retina and choroid in one image.
Ultra widefield Fundus Fluorescein Angiography and Indocyanine Green Angiography: this is a specialised imaging technique involving injecting a dye into the vein of your arm and imaging it when it reaches the blood vessels in your eye with a special light wavelength. This information allows your consultant to see the extent of any inflammation, fluid build-up, and lesions in the retina and choroid.x
Visual Field Testing: this test assesses your peripheral vision, a critical aspect of monitoring the progression of Birdshot Chorioretinopathy.
Ultra widefield Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): state-of-the-art imaging for cross-sectional views of the retina and choroid, aiding in lesion characterization.
Electroretinography: testing of the electrical activity in the photoreceptor cells in the retina (cells which perceive light and permit vision) as a way of diagnosing inflammation.
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Optos Ultra-widefield Fundus Fluorescein Angiography of BSC
Optos Ultra-widefield Indocyanine Green Angiography showing BSC lesions in the choroid (layer behind the retina)
How is Birdshot Chorioretinopathy treated at The Retina Clinic London?
The Retina Clinic London offers a personalised and multidisciplinary approach to treating and managing Birdshot Chorioretinopathy. Our team of ophthalmologists specialised in uveitis will create a treatment and follow-up plan tailored to your symptoms and condition involving the following medications and activities:
- Corticosteroids: Targeted administration to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
- Immunosuppressive Medications: tailored treatments for cases involving recurrent or severe inflammation.
- Ongoing Monitoring: regular follow-ups to track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.