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[Intraocular infection with herpesviruses and antiviral immunity in patients with age-related macular degeneration]

A Sh Mukhamed'ianova, R A Aznabaev, L F Aznabaeva

    Vestnik Oftalmologii
    |May 21, 2008
    PubMed

    Insights

    Herpesviridae, including Herpes simplex virus, were detected in the eye lenses of cataract patients. This suggests a link between these viruses and age-related macular degeneration, warranting antiviral treatment.

    Area of Science:

    • Ophthalmology
    • Virology
    • Immunology

    Background:

    • Age-related cataract and age-related macular degeneration are common causes of vision loss.
    • Herpesviridae are known to cause various ocular infections.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the presence of Herpesviridae in the lens of patients undergoing cataract surgery.
    • To explore the association between Herpesviridae, age-related macular degeneration, and lacrimal fluid antiviral immunity.

    Main Methods:

    • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect Herpesviridae DNA in the lens substance.
    • Immune markers (IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IFN-alpha) in lacrimal fluid were analyzed.

    Main Results:

    • Herpesviridae (Herpes simplex, Cytomegalovirus) were identified in 46% of patients with age-related cataract.
    • Herpes simplex virus was found in 18.8% of patients with co-existing age-related macular degeneration.
    • An imbalance in lacrimal fluid antiviral immunity was observed, with decreased IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha, and increased IFN-alpha.

    Conclusions:

    • The study suggests a potential role for Herpesviridae in the pathogenesis of age-related cataract and macular degeneration.
    • Imbalances in ocular antiviral immunity may be associated with herpetic infections in the eye.
    • Antiviral therapy is recommended for patients with these abnormalities to prevent herpetic infection reactivation.

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