Platelet transfusions for patients suffering from severe thrombocytopenia are regulated by clinical bleedings and platelet counts. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of retinal hemorrhage in patients with hematologic and oncologic malignancies and severe thrombocytopenia, and to determine the benefit of systematic funduscopic examination in this setting.

Hospitalized patients with hematologic and oncologic malignancies having a platelet count less than 25,000 per μL underwent indirect ophthalmoscopy. The prevalence of retinal hemorrhage and its correlation with different patients’ characteristics were determined. The decision to transfuse platelets or not following bedside indirect ophthalmoscopy was left at the discretion of the treating physician.

A total of 34 severe thrombocytopenic patients were included in the study. The prevalence of retinal hemorrhage was detected in 10 patients (29.4%). No significant correlation was found between the occurrence of retinal hemorrhage and age, platelet count or thrombocytopenia etiology (P>0.05). No significant difference was found concerning the rate of transfusion between those with and without retinal hemorrhage.

According to our statistical results, retinal hemorrhage is a frequent finding in severely thrombocytopenic patients. Early detection may lead to an increase in the platelet transfusion threshold from to 30,000 per μL offering additional protection against spontaneous bleedings. Funduscopy is a safe and easy exam to perform systematically in patients with severe thrombocytopenia.