Arijit Lodha, Majeeda Kamaluddeen, Stephanie Dotchin, Julie Lauzon, Patrick Mitchell
University of Alberta. Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary.
Canada
International Journal of Surgery Case Reports
Int J Surg Case Rep 2025; 130:
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2025.111341
Abstract
Introduction and importance: A potential relationship between bilateral retinal detachment, chylothorax, and purpura fulminans in a female neonate with a PAK2 gene variant is not commonly reported. This emphasizes the significance of early ophthalmologic assessment in neonates with congenital chylothorax.
Case presentation: A full-term female infant weighing 2.775 kg was delivered by cesarean section due to breech presentation. Prenatal imaging revealed fetal bilateral pleural effusion, suggestive of chylothorax. The neonate developed respiratory distress and purpura fulminans after birth. The absence of the red reflex in the right eye prompted a detailed ophthalmologic examination using a portable slit lamp and an indirect ophthalmoscope. The right eye revealed an ectatic pupil with posterior synechia extending from approximately 6 o’clock to 9 o’clock. Fundus examination of both eyes revealed funnel retinal detachment with multiple chronic features. A small amount of retina was draped between 4 and 7 o’clock, which may have been attached. Further ophthalmologic investigation under anesthesia, using B-scan ultrasonography and intravenous fluorescein angiography, confirmed bilateral retinal detachment. Genetic investigations revealed a PAK2 c.1115A>T, p.(Asp372Val) variant.
Clinical discussion: In addition to presenting our case report, we reviewed other recent case reports similar to ours. Retinal detachment and bilateral pleural effusions in neonates with Knobloch syndrome have been recently reported, but without purpura fulminans. Retinal detachment in neonates can result from both congenital and acquired conditions, and requires a thoughtful approach to establish the diagnosis and provide future counseling.
Conclusion: Bilateral retinal detachment, chylothorax, and purpura fulminans in a neonate with a PAK2 genetic variant is uncommon. This case underscores the importance of early ophthalmologic assessment and genetic testing for both neonates and their family members.
Category
Pulmonary Lymphatic Disease
Genetic Factors Associated with Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Age Focus: Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Fresh or Filed Publication: Fresh (PHresh). Less than 1-2 years since publication
Article Access
Free PDF File or Full Text Article Available Through PubMed or DOI: Yes