CENTRAL RETINAL artery occlusion (CRAO) in patients with Sydenham's chorea is extremely rare, although the association has been long recognized. Since the first description in 1875, at least 15 cases have been reported.1-12 This case report is based on observations made recently in such a patient at the St. Louis Children's Hospital. The literature is briefly reviewed and certain aspects of the problem discussed.
Report of a Case
A 10-year-old white boy was admitted to St. Louis Children's Hospital on Dec 17, 1968, with a four month history of Sydenham's chorea, manifested by irritability, inattentiveness, clumsiness, incoordination of movements and gait, jerking of extremities, and a disturbance of speech described as "losing control of his tongue." No visual symptoms were noted. There was no history of a recent febrile illness, but his twin sister was treated for acute rheumatic fever nine months earlier. Examination revealed facial grimacing, choreal movements