Cytomegalovirus retinitis complicated by optic neuropathy: a longitudinal study

Two cases of suspected cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis treated with ganciclovir and followed for 18 and 5 months are presented. Each patient developed optic neuropathy and experienced reduced vision despite effective control of their retinitis. In addition to objective ocular findings, subjective visual function changes (perimetry, contrast sensitivity and accommodation) in long term follow up of AIDS patients are reported for the first time. A discussion of CMV, its treatment and complications follows.