In ophthalmic practice, masquerade syndromes represent one of the most significant diagnostic challenges, as they present with a clinical picture that closely resembles entirely different pathological entities. With this phenomenon as its central theme, Dr. Panos Gartaganis, Consultant at the Ophthalmology Department of Mediterraneo Hospital, participated as a speaker at the 59th Panhellenic Congress of Ophthalmology, held in Thessaloniki, June 11–13, 2026.
Within the scientific programme, Dr. Gartaganis presented two cases reports reflecting his subspecialty expertise in intraocular inflammation and retinal pathology, demonstrating how sustained clinical vigilance can unmask the true diagnosis behind the clinical “camouflage”:
1. Anterior Migration of the Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant (Ozurdex®) presenting as Pseudo-hypopyon
A rare case was presented of unexpected migration of the Ozurdex® intravitreal implant into the anterior chamber of the eye, with a clinical presentation mimicking hypopyon. Emphasis was placed on the importance of prompt recognition of this condition, as timely diagnosis is critical for corneal protection and the prevention of permanent visual impairment.
2. Syphilitic Chorioretinitis Masquerading as Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: The Importance of a Multidisciplinary Approach
A case of a rare ocular manifestation of syphilis was presented, which clinically resembled rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, underscoring the pivotal role of interdisciplinary collaboration in achieving accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Dr. Gartaganis’s participation in the 59th Panhellenic Congress of Ophthalmology, representing the Ophthalmology Department of Mediterraneo Hospital, is further testament to the high level of scientific activity carried out at our institution, and highlights the hospital’s sustained engagement with contemporary advances in the field of Ophthalmology.
The abstracts of Dr. Gartaganis’s presentations can be found on pages 63 & 90 of the Scientific Programme.
