Cluster of Target-Shaped Floaters

Almost a year ago, while staring down at the sidewalk, I noticed a dark spot in my vision in my left eye. No big deal, I thought. "It's just a floater." As time went on though, one dark spot turned into many and they got much larger and darker.

These floaters are always in my central vision and look like a cluster of bull's eyes or target shapes, when I'm focused on them. (See my profile picture.) Maybe they are not floaters at all because they seem to stay in the same place. When I don't see them, usually in lower light, I think my brain is tuning them out.

It's so frustrating and scary, especially now that there are some in my right eye, too. My doctor doesn't know this, yet.

Recently, I saw a retina ophthalmologist. I was injected with a fluorescein dye and my left eye was photographed with a special camera. The doctor noticed that I had slow blood flow in that eye. In his notes, he said it is a "possible ocular ischemia with prolonged arteriovenous transit." Other than that, my eye looked good.

I just made an appointment to get a carotid artery ultrasound. I hope someone can figure this out soon. This is a pretty frightening place to be in.

Has anyone heard of something like this before? I would really appreciate any information or advice you could offer.

Thank you so much.

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

Sounds like you are doing the right thing with the Ultrasound.  You may also want to talk to your doctor about checking you for giant cell arteritis (especially if you have headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw ache after chewing, recent weight loss, etc).  If negative on the ultrasound and other exams for lack of blood flow, you may want to consult with a neuroophthalmologist next.

HV

[TreeFingers]

Dr. Vosoghi... Thank you for responding.

I had the carotid ultrasound done today and was told that my arteries are in perfect shape. Also, I do not have any of the symptoms which are indicative of giant cell arteritis. Looks like I need to search for a neuro ophthalmologist.

Thanks again.