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Ehrlichiosis optic neuritis
Michael S Lee1, Timothy E Goslee, Simmons Lessell
1Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA. leem4@ccf.org
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|March 5, 2003
Summary
Ehrlichiosis, a tick-borne illness, can cause optic neuritis, an inflammation of the optic nerve. This case highlights the importance of considering ehrlichiosis in patients presenting with optic neuritis following a flu-like illness.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Tick-borne illnesses
Background:
- Optic neuritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the optic nerve, leading to vision loss.
- Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks, often presenting with non-specific flu-like symptoms.
Observation:
- A 41-year-old woman presented with symptoms and imaging indicative of optic neuritis.
- Initial ehrlichiosis titers were negative, but became positive after symptom onset.
- MRI revealed gadolinium enhancement of the optic nerve.
Findings:
- The patient's positive ehrlichiosis titers correlated with the onset of optic neuritis.
- Ehrlichiosis infection was confirmed as the likely cause of the optic neuritis.
Implications:
- Ehrlichiosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of optic neuritis, particularly after a febrile illness.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of ehrlichiosis may prevent vision-threatening complications like optic neuritis.