A recent study has identified a novel retinal condition, termed hyperacute outer retinal dysfunction (HORD), that affects pediatric patients following febrile illness. The study researchers investigated the clinical characteristics, retinal imaging findings, and prognosis of children who experienced sudden, severe bilateral vision loss accompanied by diffuse disruptions in the ellipsoid zone and external limiting membrane. They described that the condition presents with acute, severe vision loss but demonstrates notable recovery of central vision in most cases, which suggests that it is a distinct clinical entity that primarily affects young children after fever. Treatment strategies were inconsistent, and the outcome of treatment remains unclear.  Long-term follow-up and further investigation are needed.

Source: JAMA Ophthalmology