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Intravitreal cysticercosis presenting as neovascular glaucoma
Dhanashree Ratra1, Chekitaan Phogat, Maneesh Singh
1Bhagawan Mahavir Vitreoretinal Services and Department of Glaucoma, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, India.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 24, 2009
Summary
Intraocular cysticercosis can cause neovascular glaucoma, a rare complication. Surgical removal of the parasite and medication successfully treated the condition in two patients, preventing recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Parasitology
- Neovascular diseases
Background:
- Intraocular cysticercosis is a parasitic infection of the eye caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm, Taenia solium.
- Neovascular glaucoma is a severe form of secondary glaucoma characterized by abnormal blood vessel growth in the iris and anterior chamber, leading to elevated intraocular pressure.
Observation:
- Two young adult patients presented with neovascular glaucoma and elevated intraocular pressure.
- Dilated fundus examination revealed dead, intravitreal cysticercosis in both cases.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the intravitreal cysts was performed using a three-port vitrectomy.
- Intracameral bevacizumab was administered to promote regression of rubeosis (abnormal blood vessel growth).
- One patient required a combined trabeculectomy to manage intraocular pressure.
Implications:
- This case series highlights an unreported association between intraocular cysticercosis and neovascular glaucoma.
- Prompt diagnosis and combined surgical and medical treatment can effectively manage this rare presentation.
- Successful treatment led to normalized intraocular pressure and no recurrence of rubeosis after one year.
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