Retinal cavernous hemangioma

What it means

A benign tumor of the retina that appears as a grouping of blood-filled saccules within the inner retinal layers or on the surface of the optic disc. Retinal cavernous hemangioma are described as having a 'cluster of grapes' appearance.

The lesions are variable in size and location, and frequently follow the course of a major retinal vein. Epiretinal membranes are a common feature. In contrast to retinal capillary hemangiomas, cavernous hemangiomas lack prominent feeder vessels, intraretinal exudate, and surrounding subretinal fluid. Because the fundoscopic features are characteristic, diagnosis can generally be made based upon clinical appearance. These hemangiomas can be associated with cavernous brain hemangiomas. The use of "Retinal cavernous angioma" is not recommended, as strictly speaking only hemangiomas occur in the retina.

Rare diseases that can present with this1

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Retinal cavernous angioma · Retinal cavernous haemangioma