[Bilateral influenza-triggered panuveitis and subsequent therapy with amantadine and hyperimmunoglobulins]

Influenza A is one type of influenza virus that commonly causes acute respiratory illness. Outbreaks of influenza occur every year. Major antigenic variations preclude permanent immunity in the population. Often signs of conjunctivitis or photophobia are common during acute infection. Posterior uveitis is very rare.

A young lady with a diagnosed anterior uveitis was sent for further evaluation to the eye department with a known history of flu.

This patient had a severe ocular manifestation of influenza A infection. There was bilateral panuveitis with keratic precipitates, cells and flare, and an impressive retinopathy in both eyes. Serology was positive for influenza A.

The course of an influenza A infection is usually uncomplicated. Severe affection of the choriocapillaris results in a complicated post-influenza retinal pigmentary degeneration. Treatment with amantadine and therapy with hyperimmunoglobulins seem to be useful.