Peripheral Exudative Hemorrhagic Chorioretinopathy (PEHCR)

Peripheral Exudative Hemorrhagic Chorioretinopathy — usually shortened to PEHCR — is an eye condition that happens in the peripheral retina (the outer edges of the back of the eye). In this disease, fragile blood vessels underneath or just under the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) leak fluid (exudate) and bleed (hemorrhage). That leakage and bleeding can collect as a raised “lump” in the far retina and may be mixed with yellowish cholesterol-like deposits. Because the spot is dark and elevated, it can look like a tumor on quick examination, especially a choroidal melanoma, which is why PEHCR is sometimes called a “pseudomelanoma.” EyeWikiLippincott JournalsPentaVision

Most people with PEHCR are older adults, and many have high blood pressure or other age-related retinal changes. The condition is often silent, because it sits far from the center of vision; symptoms usually appear if blood or fluid spreads toward the macula (the center of sight) or if bleeding spills into the vitreous gel (the clear jelly inside the eye). PMCAAOMDPI

Researchers now think PEHCR is linked to the pachychoroid spectrum — a group of conditions where the choroid (the blood-rich layer under the retina) is thicker and has enlarged vessels (“pachyvessels”). It also appears closely related to polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), another disease with abnormal, leaky choroidal vessels. These links help explain why the lesions tend to sit in the temporal (outer) quadrants, especially inferotemporal, and why some cases show polyp-like vascular changes on indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). PubMedPMC+1Lippincott JournalsNature

PEHCR has had several names in older papers (for example, eccentric disciform degeneration/extramacular disciform degeneration), but they describe the same core picture: peripheral exudation plus hemorrhage in older eyes. PMC

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Who tends to get it?

• Age: usually in the 70s–80s at diagnosis. AAOMDPI

• Sex and race: many series note a female predominance and a higher proportion of White patients. AAOMDPI

• Laterality and location: often bilateral (both eyes) and most commonly in the temporal periphery (especially inferotemporal). Retina TodayPMCNature

PEHCR is important for two simple reasons:

1. It can be mistaken for a cancer. The dark, dome-shaped hemorrhagic mound can look like a melanoma. Getting the diagnosis right prevents aggressive, unnecessary treatments. Lippincott JournalsPentaVision

2. It sometimes threatens vision. While many cases stay quiet, vision can drop if the lesion tracks toward the macula or if vitreous hemorrhage occurs. PMCLippincott Journals

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Types

Because PEHCR is a pattern in the peripheral fundus, doctors often “type” it by what’s most obvious, where it sits, and how active it is:

1. Hemorrhage-dominant vs. exudate-dominant: some eyes mainly show sub-RPE/subretinal blood; others show lipid exudates with smaller hemorrhage. Both are PEHCR. EyeWiki

2. With polypoidal features vs. without: some cases show polyp-like choroidal vessels on ICGA (a clue toward PCV-like disease). Others do not. PMCLippincott Journals

3. Active vs. quiescent: active lesions look fresh (new blood, fluid, and exudate), while quiescent lesions show flat scars or old RPE changes. PLOS

4. With macular extension vs. confined to periphery: vision risk is higher when fluid, blood, or exudates creep toward the macula. MDPI

5. With vitreous hemorrhage vs. without: some cases develop breakthrough bleeding into the vitreous gel and present with sudden floaters or haze. Lippincott Journals

6. Pachychoroid-type (thick choroid/pachyvessels) vs. non-pachychoroid: enhanced-depth imaging can show thicker choroid and enlarged vessels, supporting a pachychoroid association. PubMed

7. Solitary vs. multifocal lesions: a single hemorrhagic PED vs. several separate peripheral foci; multifocal disease can mimic tumors even more strongly. PentaVision

8. By quadrant: temporal/inferotemporal is most common, but any quadrant can be involved (often one or two quadrants). PMCLippincott Journals

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Causes

PEHCR doesn’t have one single cause. Instead, several factors add up to make the peripheral choroidal vessels and the overlying RPE fragile and leaky. Below are 20 evidence-linked contributors, explained simply:

1. Aging of the retina and choroid: with age, the RPE and Bruch’s membrane stiffen and the choroid changes, which makes leakage and bleeding more likely in the periphery. PMC

2. Systemic hypertension: long-standing high blood pressure stresses tiny vessels, raising the chance of exudation and hemorrhage. PMC

3. Pachychoroid (thick choroid with big “pachyvessels”): a congested, thick choroid can drive leaks under the RPE and promote hemorrhagic PEDs. PubMed

4. Polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) features: polyp-like choroidal vessels can form in the periphery and bleed; several series show a PCV–PEHCR link. PMCLippincott Journals

5. Choroidal neovascularization (CNV): new, fragile vessels grow under the RPE and leak/bleed, creating the classic lesion. Lippincott Journals

6. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) associations: many patients with PEHCR have AMD-type changes in one or both eyes, hinting at a shared degenerative/vascular pathway. PentaVision

7. Use of blood thinners (anticoagulants): drugs like warfarin or DOACs are common among PEHCR patients and can make bleeding easier once a lesion forms. EyeWikiAAO

8. Use of antiplatelet drugs: aspirin and similar medicines are also frequent in PEHCR cohorts and may tip the balance toward hemorrhage. EyeWikiAAO

9. Atherosclerotic/vascular disease burden: general “hardening of the arteries” goes hand-in-hand with aging-eye vascular fragility. (This is closely related to #2 and #6.) PMC

10. Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) with traction: when the vitreous pulls away, it can tug delicate peripheral lesions and trigger bleeding into the vitreous. PentaVision

11. Thin or damaged Bruch’s membrane: tiny breaks make it easier for abnormal vessels to push through and leak under the RPE. ResearchGate

12. RPE degeneration and micro-tears: a weak RPE barrier can blister (PED) and bleed underneath. PentaVision

13. Choroidal venous outflow issues: congestion in large choroidal veins (pachyvessels) can raise pressure and promote leakage. PubMed

14. Coagulation disorders or low platelets: blood diseases (like thrombocytopenia) make bleeding easier once a lesion exists.

15. Transient spikes in venous pressure (Valsalva/strain): sudden pressure surges can convert a quiet lesion into a hemorrhage.

16. Peripheral drusen/RPE atrophy: “wear and tear” in the periphery parallels macular degeneration and can set the stage for peripheral CNV and PEDs. PentaVision

17. Choroidal ischemia or hypoxia: poor choroidal flow may stimulate abnormal vessel growth and leakage. ResearchGate

18. Inflammation (rare contributor): low-grade inflammation can weaken the RPE–Bruch’s complex and vessels, predisposing to leaks and blood.

19. Trauma to the eye (remote or minor): past blunt injury can leave thin spots that later bleed when stressed.

20. Genetic background that favors pachychoroid/PCV/AMD: not proven for PEHCR specifically, but the overlap with these disorders suggests shared susceptibility in some patients. PMC

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Symptoms

Many people have no symptoms at first because the lesion is far from central vision. When symptoms do occur, they are often due to vitreous hemorrhage or spread toward the macula:

1. Sudden floaters from small vitreous bleeds. Retina Today

2. Foggy or hazy vision if blood clouds the vitreous. Lippincott Journals

3. Decreased visual acuity, especially if fluid or exudate reaches the macula. Nature

4. Peripheral shadow or “curtain” if there’s a localized peripheral detachment from exudation. PentaVision

5. Distortion (wavy lines) if the macula is secondarily involved. MDPI

6. A new blind spot in the near-periphery that moves with the eye.

7. Flashes of light (photopsias), sometimes reported with vitreoretinal traction.

8. Peripheral field defect noticed on casual testing when the lesion is large. Nature

9. Color desaturation if macular edema or subretinal fluid reaches central retina.

10. Difficulty reading or focusing when central vision is secondarily affected.

11. Glare or light sensitivity during active bleeding or edema.

12. Headache or eye ache (non-specific, usually mild).

13. Recurrent “coming and going” of symptoms, mirroring intermittent activity.

14. No symptoms at all (picked up on widefield photos during routine eye care). MDPI

15. Very poor vision suddenly if there’s a dense vitreous hemorrhage. Lippincott Journals

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Diagnostic tests

A) Physical exam

1. Visual acuity test: reading the chart tells how much central vision is affected now and provides a baseline to judge change over time. In PEHCR, vision can be normal unless the macula gets involved or there is vitreous blood. MDPI

2. Pupil exam (looking for a relative afferent pupillary defect): a large hemorrhagic mass rarely produces an RAPD, which helps distinguish PEHCR from big tumors or optic nerve disease.

3. Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement: pressure can be normal in PEHCR, but very high or very low IOP would suggest other causes (like neovascular glaucoma or large detachments). This helps keep the differential diagnosis on track.

4. Slit-lamp exam of the anterior segment and anterior vitreous: the doctor looks for inflammatory cells or blood in the anterior vitreous, which supports a vitreous hemorrhage from a peripheral lesion. Lippincott Journals

B) Manual clinical tests

5. Confrontation visual fields at the chair: quick side-vision checks can show peripheral scotomas if the exudative detachment is broad.

6. Amsler grid at near: a simple square grid helps detect macular distortion if fluid or exudate spreads inward.

7. Indirect ophthalmoscopy with scleral depression: the gold-standard way to inspect the far periphery. The examiner can see the elevated, dark, hemorrhagic mound with surrounding yellow exudates and assess how many quadrants are involved (often temporal). Lippincott Journals

8. Three-mirror contact lens exam: a handheld contact lens lets the doctor scan the far periphery at high magnification to confirm a hemorrhagic PED-like lesion rather than a solid mass.

C) Laboratory / pathological tests

9. Complete blood count (CBC) with platelets: low platelets or blood disorders make bleeding worse and can explain unusually extensive hemorrhage. (Case series report severe vitreous hemorrhage with systemic hematologic issues.)

10. Coagulation profile (PT/INR, aPTT): these tests matter if a patient takes warfarin/DOACs or has a bleeding tendency; many PEHCR patients use anticoagulants or antiplatelets, which correlates with more hemorrhage. EyeWikiAAO

11. Metabolic risk labs (lipids, glucose/HbA1c): vascular risk (cholesterol, diabetes) travels with aging eyes and can aggravate choroidal/retinal microvascular stress tied to PEHCR. PMC

D) Electrodiagnostic tests

12. Full-field ERG (electroretinogram): usually normal in PEHCR because the disease is focal, but helpful to prove the rest of the retina functions well when a tumor is suspected.

13. Multifocal ERG: samples macular function; can show subtle macular impact if exudation drifts inward.

14. Electro-oculography (EOG): evaluates RPE function; usually not diagnostic by itself but can support the impression of localized RPE disturbance rather than a diffuse retinal disorder.

E) Imaging  — the heart of diagnosis

15. Widefield color fundus photography: captures the whole periphery at once. In PEHCR it shows a dark, elevated peripheral lesion with surrounding lipid and sometimes subretinal blood, most often in temporal quadrants. It’s also useful to monitor change over time. PMC

16. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), including enhanced-depth imaging: OCT slices through the lesion and shows sub-RPE fluid/blood (hemorrhagic PED), any subretinal fluid, and changes at the macula (for example cystoid macular edema if present). Enhanced-depth imaging can reveal a thick choroid and pachyvessels, supporting the pachychoroid link. MDPILippincott Journals

17. OCT Angiography (OCT-A): a dye-free scan that may show an abnormal flow network under the RPE if CNV is present. It’s less sensitive than ICGA for polypoidal changes, but it helps map activity at the macula. Lippincott Journals

18. Fluorescein angiography (FA): in PEHCR, blood blocks fluorescence (a “dark” area) while the edges may show leakage. FA also helps rule out other entities, including true tumors. PLOS

19. Indocyanine Green Angiography (ICGA): very helpful when PEHCR mimics melanoma. ICGA can reveal polyp-like telangiectasia/branching networks in some cases, supporting a PCV-like mechanism. PMC

20. B-scan ultrasonography: the key “tumor rule-out” test. In PEHCR, ultrasound typically shows a dome-shaped, low-reflective hemorrhagic mound or sub-RPE fluid/blood without the solid choroidal excavation and internal vasculature that melanomas show. This distinction is crucial to avoid overtreatment. PentaVisionLippincott Journals

Non-pharmacological treatments (therapies and others)

Note: These measures support eye health, reduce triggers for bleeding, and help catch changes early. They do not replace eye-doctor care.

1. Watchful Waiting with Scheduled Visits – Purpose: Avoid unnecessary procedures for stable lesions. Mechanism: Careful monitoring allows the body to resorb blood and fluid while ensuring quick action if the macula becomes threatened. ScienceDirect

2. Head Elevation During Acute Bleed – Purpose: Encourage blood to settle away from the macula. Mechanism: Gravity keeps heavier blood layers from migrating centrally.

3. Activity Modification for 1–2 Weeks After a Bleed – Purpose: Lower spikes in venous pressure that might worsen bleeding. Mechanism: Avoiding heavy lifting, straining, or Valsalva reduces sudden vascular pressure surges.

4. Blood Pressure Optimization – Purpose: Reduce re-bleed risk. Mechanism: Controlled systemic pressure lowers hydrostatic stress on fragile choroidal vessels. (Coordinate with your primary doctor.) PMC

5. Medication Review (Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets) – Purpose: Balance clotting risk vs. stroke/heart protection. Mechanism: With the prescribing physician, reassess dose/type/need if eye bleeding is recurrent. (Never stop on your own.)

6. Wide-Field Imaging Surveillance – Purpose: Catch new peripheral lesions early. Mechanism: Ultra-widefield photos/OCT document subtle spread or quieting. EyeWiki

7. Amsler Grid/Home Monitoring – Purpose: Detect distortion or central blur quickly. Mechanism: Self-checking prompts timely clinic visits.

8. Smoking Cessation – Purpose: Reduce vascular damage risk. Mechanism: Stopping smoking improves choroidal and retinal perfusion and reduces oxidative stress.

9. Healthy Lipid and Glucose Control – Purpose: Support microvascular health. Mechanism: Targets (diet/exercise/meds) improve endothelial function and vessel stability.

10. Sun/Glare Management – Purpose: Ease light sensitivity. Mechanism: UV-blocking sunglasses reduce photic stress to compromised retina.

11. Low-Vision Aids (if needed) – Purpose: Help reading and mobility if scotomas persist. Mechanism: Magnifiers, task lighting, contrast tools maximize remaining vision.

12. Fall and Eye-Trauma Prevention – Purpose: Avert blunt trauma-related bleeding. Mechanism: Home safety checks, proper footwear, and night lighting reduce accidents.

13. Treat Dry Eye/Surface Disease – Purpose: Improve comfort and adherence to follow-ups; maintain clear views for imaging. Mechanism: Lubricants and lid care sharpen optical quality.

14. Sleep and Hydration Hygiene – Purpose: Support vascular stability. Mechanism: Adequate rest and hydration may reduce BP spikes and blood viscosity swings.

15. Weight-Bearing Exercise (moderate) – Purpose: Cardiometabolic benefits without strain. Mechanism: Regular, moderate exercise improves BP, lipids, and endothelial health.

16. Nutrition Pattern (see diet section) – Purpose: Provide antioxidants and carotenoids. Mechanism: Leafy greens and colored vegetables supply lutein/zeaxanthin that concentrate in the retina.

17. Avoid High-Risk Valsalva Events – Purpose: Reduce sudden bleeds. Mechanism: Proper technique for lifting; avoid breath-holding; treat chronic cough/constipation.

18. Allergy and Sinus Management – Purpose: Reduce coughing/sneezing strain. Mechanism: Fewer pressure spikes reduce re-bleed triggers.

19. Prompt Care for New Floaters/Flashes – Purpose: Early bleed or retinal tear detection. Mechanism: Immediate evaluation allows timely treatment.

20. Care Coordination (Primary Care + Retina) – Purpose: Align systemic risk control with eye care. Mechanism: Shared plans for BP, antithrombotics, and follow-up timing.

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Drug treatments

Important: Most drug use in PEHCR is off-label based on experience and case series. The core evidence supports anti-VEGF when treatment is needed, and some cases benefit from PDT or laser/cryotherapy. Doses below are standard intravitreal amounts used in retinal diseases; the treating retina specialist personalizes the plan. PMCScienceDirect

1. Bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) – Class: Monoclonal antibody fragment. Dose/Time: 1.25 mg/0.05 mL intravitreal; typically monthly loading then as needed. Purpose: Stop leakage and help resolve blood/edema threatening the macula. Mechanism: Blocks VEGF to reduce abnormal permeability and neovascular activity. Side effects: Eye irritation, transient pressure rise, rare infection (endophthalmitis), very rare inflammation.

2. Ranibizumab (anti-VEGF) – Class: Antibody fragment. Dose/Time: 0.5 mg/0.05 mL intravitreal; monthly then PRN/treat-and-extend. Purpose/Mechanism: Same goal as above; strong macula-protective role when exudation approaches the center. Side effects: Similar intravitreal risks.

3. Aflibercept (anti-VEGF “VEGF-trap”) – Class: Fusion protein. Dose/Time: 2 mg/0.05 mL; typical loading then extend. Purpose: Potent drying effect, useful if response is incomplete to another anti-VEGF. Mechanism: Binds VEGF-A, VEGF-B, PlGF. Side effects: As above.

4. Faricimab (anti-VEGF + anti-Ang-2) – Class: Bispecific antibody. Dose/Time: 6 mg/0.05 mL; loading then extend if stable. Purpose: Dual pathway blockade may give durability in exudative disease; evidence in PEHCR is evolving. Side effects: As above. ScienceDirect

5. Brolucizumab (anti-VEGF) – Class: Single-chain antibody fragment. Dose/Time: 6 mg/0.05 mL; used more cautiously. Purpose: Strong drying effect; Note: risk of intraocular inflammation/vasculitis—specialist use only. Mechanism/Side effects: VEGF blockade; watch closely for inflammation.

6. Verteporfin (Photodynamic Therapy, “PDT”) – Class: Photosensitizer drug used with 689-nm laser. Dose/Time: 6 mg/m² IV over 10 minutes; laser applied ~15 minutes after start of infusion; spot sized to lesion. Purpose: Targets abnormal choroidal vessels while sparing retina. Mechanism: Light-activated drug closes leaky vessels. Side effects: Temporary photosensitivity (avoid bright light for 48 hours). PMC

7. Triamcinolone acetonide (intravitreal steroid) – Class: Corticosteroid. Dose/Time: 2–4 mg intravitreal; PRN. Purpose: Reduce inflammation/edema in selected cases. Mechanism: Lowers inflammatory permeability. Side effects: Eye pressure rise, cataract acceleration, infection risk.

8. Dexamethasone implant (0.7 mg) – Class: Biodegradable steroid implant (Ozurdex). Dose/Time: Single implant in vitreous; effect ~2–4 months. Purpose: Short-term edema control when inflammation drives leakage. Mechanism: Steroid anti-inflammatory action. Side effects: IOP rise, cataract, infection risk.

9. tPA (tissue plasminogen activator) – Class: Fibrinolytic enzyme. Dose/Time: Small doses (e.g., 25–50 µg subretinal during surgery or ~50–100 µg intravitreal) with or without a gas bubble in selected subretinal hemorrhage cases threatening the macula. Purpose: Liquefy clot and help displace blood away from the fovea. Side effects: Re-bleeding, inflammation; specialist procedure.

10. Conbercept (anti-VEGF; region-dependent availability) – Class: VEGF receptor decoy. Dose/Time: ~0.5 mg intravitreal in regions where available. Purpose/Mechanism: Similar to aflibercept; used off-label in exudative peripheral disease. Side effects: As with other intravitreal agents.

Evidence notes: Systematic reviews and case series report that anti-VEGF injections help macula-threatening or recurrent PEHCR, often improving anatomy and stabilizing vision; PDT and focal laser/cryotherapy are also reported options for select lesions. PMCScienceDirect

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Dietary molecular supplements

There is no supplement proven to cure or specifically treat PEHCR. Nutrients below are often used for general retinal support (many from AMD research). Always discuss interactions—some supplements can increase bleeding risk.

1. AREDS2 formula – Dose: Vitamin C 500 mg, Vitamin E 400 IU, Zinc 80 mg (or 25 mg if stomach upset), Copper 2 mg, Lutein 10 mg, Zeaxanthin 2 mg daily. Function/Mechanism: Antioxidant and macular carotenoid support; helps macular aging in trials; peripheral benefit is unproven but reasonable for overall retinal nutrition.

2. Lutein (10 mg) & Zeaxanthin (2 mg) – Function: Concentrate in macula/retina, filter blue light, antioxidant action. Mechanism: Quenches oxidative stress.

3. Omega-3 (EPA/DHA 1,000 mg/day) – Function: Anti-inflammatory lipid mediators. Mechanism: May help endothelial health; caution at high doses with bleeding/anticoagulants—ask your doctor.

4. Vitamin D (per labs, e.g., 1,000–2,000 IU/day if low) – Function: Immune and endothelial support. Mechanism: May reduce inflammatory signaling.

5. CoQ10 (100–200 mg/day) – Function: Mitochondrial antioxidant. Mechanism: Supports cellular energy and reduces oxidative stress.

6. N-Acetylcysteine (600–1,200 mg/day) – Function: Glutathione precursor. Mechanism: Antioxidant replenishment.

7. Alpha-lipoic acid (300–600 mg/day) – Function: Antioxidant; may aid microvascular function. Mechanism: Redox cycling; supports endothelial health.

8. Magnesium (200–400 mg/day, as tolerated) – Function: Vascular tone and BP regulation. Mechanism: Smooth muscle relaxation; BP support.

9. Bilberry/Anthocyanins (standardized extract, per label) – Function: Flavonoid antioxidant. Mechanism: Capillary support; caution with anticoagulants.

10. Curcumin (500–1,000 mg/day with pepper extract for absorption) – Function: Anti-inflammatory antioxidant. Mechanism: NF-κB modulation; caution for bleeding risk and drug interactions.

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Regenerative / stem-cell / immune-targeting” approaches

Honest note: There is no approved regenerative or stem-cell drug for PEHCR. The items below are research directions used in other retinal diseases (AMD/PCV) and are not standard care for PEHCR today. Consider this an outlook section, not recommendations.

1. RPE cell therapy (hESC/iPSC-derived) – Function: Replace damaged retinal pigment epithelium. Mechanism: Lab-grown RPE cells placed under retina to restore support functions. Dose: Clinical-trial protocols only; not approved for PEHCR.

2. Gene therapies that lower intraocular VEGF (e.g., AAV-based anti-VEGF expressions) – Function: Long-term VEGF suppression after one procedure. Mechanism: Viral vector inserts anti-VEGF genetic cassette. Dose: Trial-specific; not approved for PEHCR.

3. Complement-pathway inhibitors – Function: Modulate excessive complement/immune activity seen in AMD. Mechanism: Block components like C3/C5; uncertain role in PEHCR. Dose: Drug- and trial-specific.

4. Tie2/Angiopoietin pathway regulators – Function: Stabilize leaky vessels by strengthening endothelial junctions. Mechanism: Ang-2 inhibition/Tie2 activation (concept behind faricimab); already used clinically as faricimab for other indications; off-label in PEHCR.

5. Sustained-delivery anti-VEGF devices – Function: Long-acting control of exudation. Mechanism: Drug reservoir releases agent over months; device-specific approvals, not PEHCR-specific.

6. Platelet-derived or other growth-factor approaches (experimental) – Function: Encourage repair without pathologic angiogenesis. Mechanism: Complex and investigational; not recommended outside trials.

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Surgical/laser procedures

1. Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Why: Clear non-resolving vitreous hemorrhage, remove clots, and apply endolaser to treat active peripheral sources. Procedure: Tiny ports in the eye to remove vitreous gel, clear blood, and laser abnormal areas. Lippincott Journals

2. Peripheral Laser Photocoagulation – Why: Seal or barricade focal leakage points or treat polyp-like lesions if well localized (especially when ICGA guided). Procedure: Office-based laser spots to close leaky microvessels. Lippincott Journals

3. Cryotherapy – Why: Alternative to laser if media are hazy or lesion is very peripheral. Procedure: A cold probe on the outside of the eye freezes the target, closing fragile vessels. Lippincott Journals

4. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) with Verteporfin – Why: Close abnormal choroidal vessels while sparing overlying retina in select cases. Procedure: IV drug + low-energy laser activates the drug only in lesion area. PMC

5. tPA-Assisted Blood Displacement (with gas) – Why: If dense subretinal blood threatens the macula. Procedure: tPA used to thin the clot, then a gas bubble and careful head positioning move blood away from the fovea; sometimes done during PPV.

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 Prevention tips

1. Keep blood pressure controlled (home monitoring helps). PMC

2. Do not stop blood thinners on your own; instead, review them with your doctor if eye bleeding recurs.

3. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.

4. Exercise moderately most days; avoid heavy straining without proper breathing.

5. Eye protection during high-risk activities (sports/DIY).

6. Healthy diet rich in leafy greens, colorful veggies, and fish.

7. Manage cholesterol and blood sugar with your primary doctor.

8. Keep routine retina follow-ups—especially after any new bleed.

9. Treat chronic cough/constipation to limit pressure spikes.

10. Go in promptly for new floaters, flashes, or a shadow in vision.

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When to see a doctor—right away vs. routine

• Right away (urgent): sudden shower of floaters, flashes of light, a dark curtain in your vision, sudden central blur, or after a head/eye injury.

• Soon (within days): new wavy lines, new peripheral shadow, or a noticeable increase in light sensitivity.

• Routine: stick to the follow-up plan your retina specialist sets, even if you feel fine—PEHCR can be quiet and then reactivate.

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What to eat and what to avoid

1. Eat leafy greens (spinach, kale). Avoid ultra-processed snacks high in salt/sugar.

2. Eat colorful veggies (carrots, peppers, tomatoes). Avoid trans-fats and deep-fried foods.

3. Eat fish (salmon, sardines) 1–2×/week. Avoid excessive omega-3 capsules without doctor input if you’re on blood thinners.

4. Eat nuts and seeds (small portions). Avoid large amounts if you need strict calorie/BP control.

5. Eat citrus/berries for vitamin C. Avoid sugary drinks.

6. Eat whole grains. Avoid refined carbs.

7. Eat adequate protein (beans, lean meats). Avoid very high-salt processed meats.

8. Drink plenty of water. Avoid heavy alcohol (can raise BP and interact with meds).

9. Consider AREDS2-type vitamins if advised. Avoid supplement stacking that increases bleeding risk (e.g., high-dose fish oil + ginkgo + curcumin) without medical advice.

10. Aim for steady weight and BP. Avoid fad diets that spike BP or interact with medications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1) Is PEHCR cancer?
No. It can look like a tumor on exam or imaging, which is why it’s a top melanoma mimic, but it is not cancer. Getting the right diagnosis matters because treatment and outlook are very different. PentaVision

2) Can PEHCR go away on its own?
Yes—many cases are observed and stabilize as blood and fluid resorb. Doctors step in when the macula is at risk or bleeds keep recurring. ScienceDirect

3) Why was I told it might be a melanoma first?
Because PEHCR lesions can form dome-shaped, dark masses with fluid that resemble melanoma. Careful imaging (FA, ICGA, ultrasound) usually clarifies the diagnosis. PMC

4) What increases my risk of PEHCR or re-bleeds?
Older age, hypertension, and fragile choroidal vessels are commonly linked. Anticoagulation can unmask bleeds; never stop it without medical review. PMC

5) Will I lose my vision?
Most people do well, especially if the macula stays uninvolved. Vision risk rises with macula-threatening bleeds or repeated hemorrhages; that’s when treatment helps.

6) Are injections safe?
Intravitreal anti-VEGF has a strong safety record in retinal care. Risks include rare infection, inflammation, and transient eye-pressure rise. Your retina specialist will discuss this. ScienceDirect

7) How often would I need injections?
Typically monthly at first, then as needed or on a treat-and-extend schedule based on your response.

8) Is laser or cryotherapy better than injections?
They serve different roles. Laser/cryotherapy can target a focal peripheral source; injections calm widespread leakage. Doctors choose based on lesion type and location. Lippincott Journals

9) What is PDT and why use it?
Photodynamic therapy uses IV verteporfin plus a gentle laser to shut down leaky vessels while sparing retina—useful for certain lesions. PMC

10) Why did my doctor order ICGA?
ICGA can reveal polypoidal (PCV-like) lesions that FA might miss. This helps target treatment. Lippincott Journals

11) Can diet alone fix PEHCR?
No. Diet supports overall vascular health but does not replace medical care.

12) Are supplements required?
Not required. AREDS2-type nutrients support retinal health in aging, but benefits for PEHCR specifically are unproven. Ask your doctor before starting anything new.

13) Is surgery common?
Only when needed—mainly for non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage or to combine with endolaser. Many patients never need surgery. Lippincott Journals

14) Can PEHCR come back?
Yes. It can be intermittent. That’s why follow-up and home monitoring matter.

15) What’s the biggest mistake patients make?
Ignoring new floaters or a shadow in vision. These can mean a new bleed that needs prompt retina care.

Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical  history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.

The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members

Last Updated: August 21, 2025.