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CONGENTIAL HYPERROPHY OF RETINAL PIGMENT EPITHELIUM (CHRPE)

CHRPE is a flat, darkly pigmented spot found in the back of your eye. It can vary in size, ranging from a few to more than 10 mm in diameter. You are born with a CHRPE in the eye, but it may go undetected until much later and is often found as part of a routine dilated eye examination.

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The Dangers of CHRPE

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While a CHRPE may grow slightly over time, it is not malignant. You very rarely get any noticeable symptoms and it does not pose a risk of spreading to your eyes or risk to your vision.

This is in direct contrast to a choroidal melanoma, which does pose a risk for malignancy and can be dangerous to your vision and overall health. Although CHRPEs and choroidal melanomas may appear similar, it is essential to have a thorough examination at the Annan Retina Eye Center to ensure a correct diagnosis.

CHRPE.jpg

“This image was originally published in the Retina Image Bank® website.

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​Author and photographer Sophia El Hamichi, MD. Congenital Hypertrophy of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Retina Image Bank. 2019; 36216. © the American Society of Retina Specialists."

Treatments

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CHRPE does not require treatment and can be monitored with repeat dilated eye examinations.

To learn more about treatment options relating to CHRPE please schedule a visit with Dr El Annan at the Annan Retina Eye Center. Please call 346-22A-NNAN to speak to a member of staff who will be more than happy to help you.

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