Laser Device Induced Retinopathy: An Uncommon and Under-reported Public Health Issue

Laser devices and gadgets are readily and cheaply available in today?s day and age in online marketplaces. These devices are popular among children and young adults alike. There is an alarming lack of knowledge among the general population in general and this demographic in particular about the risk of eye injury potential of these lasers. The number of laser induced retinopathy cases are on the rise and yet remain under-reported and under-diagnosed. We describe a case of a 30 year old male who presented with central scotomas 3 days after having directly viewed laser emanating from a handheld playing gadget. We aim to highlight the importance of educating the general public about the potential harmful nature of handheld lasers and helping eye care professionals identify such cases as they can mimic retinal dystrophies if the patient is not forthcoming with history of laser exposure.