Visual Disturbances vs Retinitis Pigmentosa vs SLE

[LaurelQ]

Hi there, I am 39 years old and suffer from SLE.  I have had visual problems for more than a year now in the the form of snow/static, the sensation of light in my vision (like if you stared at a bright light and then looked around) a black floater in my right eye, sensitivity to bright light, decreased night vision.  I have failed two VF tests, and seen a retinal specialist who states that I have retinitis pigmentosa.  Some of the symptoms fit, but not all.  The sensitivity to light and bright colors is quite bothersome.  Especially snow glare.  Is there something else that they could have missed?  I had an MRI which revealed an increased signal intensity in the periventricular white matter of the right posterior temporoparietal lobe.  The findings were felt to be non-specific in appearance and were thought to possibly represent an area of gliosis or infarction or an area of demyelination.  I'm hoping you can help me with this!

[LaurelQ]

Thanks for the input! No, I don't take plaquenil anymore, not for a couple of yrs.  I take methotrexate for now.  The rheumatologist is aware, and doesn't think it's SLE related.  I am going for a fluroxene angiogram tomorrow......and a electroretinography at some point in the future.  I will keep searching though.....my symptoms don't seem to fit with RP.  You are the third person to suggest neuro, or neuro-opthamology to me.....makes sense, hopefully the retinal specialist will think so too.  Keep you posted!

[rooroo41]

Do you take Plaquenil for your SLE? This can cause some problems with your vision and you must make your eyecare team aware that you take it.  Also, have you discussed any of these issues with your rheumatologist? it may be time as well for both the eyecare team and rheumatology team to consult with a neurology team.  But first, i would consult my rheumatologist, or whomever is your primary for your SLE, and make them aware of your vision issues.  secondly, if you do take Plaquenil or its generic form, make sure your eye care professional is aware of this.  Lastly, and most importantly when dealing with a lifelong chronic illness like SLE, try to coordinate all of your health care proffesionals into one united team, to work together for the greater good, which is YOU.  best of luck.

[rickhammond1965]

here is an answer go to Doheny eye clinic at U.S.C. ask them their the Best in the World.  and buy Lutin & Bilberry vitamins for eyes Helped Black Muskegge PiLots see at night