An untreated macular hole with adjacent choroidal neovascularization.

BACKGROUND: Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) occurs in association with a variety of retinochoroidal disorders. However, it is not normally known to form after an untreated macular hole. CASE REPORT: A 75-year-old black male presented with a 12-month history of visual loss in his right eye. Funduscopy showed a full-thickness macular hole in the right eye. No treatment was recommended because the decrease in vision appeared to be long standing. Fourteen months later, the patient was noted to have a subretinal hemorrhage superior to the macular hole. Fluorescein angiography revealed an adjacent choroidal neovascular membrane, and focal krypton laser photocoagulation was performed. Recurrent CNV was noted 6 months later, and additional photocoagulation was performed. DISCUSSION: This case represents the 10th case reported of CNV with a full-thickness macular hole and only the second of a patient with an untreated macular hole and no other risk factors for CNV.