Trans-scleral diode laser photocoagulation in proliferative sickle cell retinopathy.
OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the feasibility of trans-scleral diode laser photocoagulation for the treatment of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy. DESIGN: Interventional case report. INTERVENTION: Trans-scleral diode laser scatter photocoagulation was applied to both eyes of a 30-year-old man with hemoglobin SC disease. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Regression of retinal vascular proliferation and of dye leakage on fluorescein angiography. RESULTS: After coagulation, vascular proliferation receded completely. Vitreous bleeding was absorbed. There were no side effects during follow-up (22 months). CONCLUSION: Trans-scleral diode laser photocoagulation proved to be an effective and safe treatment in a case of proliferative sickle cell retinopathy with vitreous bleeding.