Vision problems and brain calcification

[shug1950]

I am a healthy 60 year old who started having some vision problems within the last 6 months along with headaches.  I went to an opthamologist who sent me to a retinal specialist.  I was diagnosed with vitreous hemmoraghe, epiretinal membrane and cataracts.  This came as quite of a shock.  At the same time my GP sent me in for a CAT scan for my headaches and vertigo.  The cat scan showed 9 mm dystrophic calcification of the anterior left parasagittal extra-axial space., and the radiologist marked the scan as not having acute findings..... Could the calcification have anything to do with the sudden onset of the vision problems?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
Thank you for your update. The calcification can also be physiologic in nature which means that they can be present with no underlying disease. If the second CT scan was normal and the hemorrhage in your eye was healing well, then, try not to worry. However, regular follow-up is important especially if these vision changes are not resolving. Take care always.

[shug1950]

They did a second CT and found "everything was normal" according to what I was told....can the calcification be normal?  This is what is frustrating to me since I am still dealing with the headaches and unusual vision problems.  I also went to the Retinal specialist and he said the Hemorraghe is healing well, there is no retinal tear, and the ERM and cataracts seem to be ok.....since everyone is telling me I'm ok and normal...maybe  I just need to take a pill and forget about the pain and problems with my vision.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? The findings of calcification in your CT scan could be due to a variety of causes such as tumors, vascular anomalies and even metabolic diseases.  It can be physiologic or pathologic in nature. The vision symptoms could be due to this but further evaluation needs to be done. Factors that are considered include the distribution of the calcification, symptoms, age, and medical history of the patient. It is important that you discuss the results with your attending physician. Take care and do keep us posted.