A Case Report on Ocular Toxocariasis in an Adult: Retinal Granuloma Complicated by Tractional Retinal Detachment

Abstract

Ocular toxocariasis (OT) predominantly affects children; however, its occurrence in adults is rare and often overlooked, resulting in delayed diagnosis. Granuloma-induced vitreoretinal traction may subsequently give rise to serious complications, including tractional retinal detachment (TRD). A 52-year-old female presented with a 2-month history of painless, progressive visual diminution in her left eye. Ocular examination revealed leukocoria with features of intermediate uveitis, dense vitritis, and a solitary retinal granuloma, findings consistent with OT; the right eye was within normal limits. She was managed with systemic corticosteroids, albendazole therapy, and correction of anemia, resulting in marked visual improvement. However, during follow-up, she developed sudden, painless visual loss in the same eye. Subsequent fundus evaluation demonstrated a TRD. The patient was successfully treated with pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peeling, and silicone oil tamponade. This case highlights the risk of delayed fibroproliferative sequelae in adult-onset OT, even after an initial favorable therapeutic response, emphasizing the importance of vigilant long-term follow-up.