Boat hemorrhages

Overview
Boat hemorrhages are rectangular dark red spots of hemorrhage seen on fundoscopic exam. They are frequently observed in patients with diabetic retinopathy.

Pathophysiology
Boat hemorrhages are due to either capillary or venular leak. The site of hemorrhage is at the interface between the retina and the vitreous humor. The contents that leak out are under such high-pressure that they break through the internal liminiting membrane of the retina.