Terson syndrome secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage: a case report and literature review

Background: Terson syndrome is a serious complication of subarachnoid hemorrhage includes any intraocular hemorrhage and may result in blurred vision or even blindness. However, it is often overlooked clinically.

Case description: A 42-year-old man presented with coma due to rupture of a left posterior communicating artery aneurysm. A preoperative CT scan demonstrated subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and bilateral fundus hemorrhage. Visual evoked potential (VEP) and B-scan ocular ultrasound revealed vitreous hemorrhages, features consistent with Terson syndrome. Pars plana vitrectomy was performed 2 weeks after SAH with a subsequent improvement of visual acuity.

Conclusions: Early identification is important for the recovery of the patient's nervous system and ophthalmology. Neurosurgeons should be aware of the pathology and pay attention to it to maximize patient's benefit.