Researchers of the State Institution ‘V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAMS of Ukraine’ has been published an article in the international scientific journal *American Journal of Ophthalmology Case Reports* — Natalia Volodymyrivna Pasechnikova, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor, Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine; Mykola Mykolayovych Umanets, Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor; and Yevhen Andriyovych Chumakov.

The article is entitled ‘Combat high-intensity light–induced full-thickness macular hole: A case report’.

The study describes a rare case of a full-thickness macular hole caused by exposure to high-intensity light in a military serviceman. The patient presented at the Institute with reduced visual acuity and a central scotoma following direct exposure to an intense light source.

According to optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed a full-thickness macular hole measuring 534 μm in diameter. The patient underwent a 25G vitrectomy with creation of an internal limiting membrane (ILM) double flap and gas tamponade. Surgical treatment resulted in anatomical closure of the macular hole. One month after surgery, the best-corrected visual acuity  improved to 0.25 (20/80).

The authors emphasise that although retinal injuries caused by intense light exposure are relatively uncommon, they can result in significant structural damage, including the formation of a full-thickness macular tear. This issue is particularly relevant in the context of current warfare, including the use of powerful searchlights and other sources of intense light radiation.

It is important to note that, according to the authors, no cases of combat-related retinal injury resulting in a full-thickness macular tear caused by exposure to high-intensity light have previously been described in the international scientific literature. The findings have practical significance for ophthalmologists and highlight the need to use eye protection in situations where there is a potential exposure to intense light.

The article was published in Issue 42 of the American Journal of Ophthalmology Case Reports (2026), Article 102554.

This work represents another important contribution by specialists of the Filatov School of Ophthalmology to the development of  advanced ophthalmology and to the accumulation of scientific expertise and clinical experience in the management of complex ocular injuries, particularly those associated with war-related trauma.

We congratulate the authors on the publication and wish them further scientific achievements!