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A case of optic neuritis complicating herpes zoster ophthalmicus in a child

Seong Min Hong1, Yun Sik Yang

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Korea.

Korean Journal of Ophthalmology : KJO
|April 10, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) in children can cause optic neuritis, leading to decreased vision. Early treatment with antivirals and steroids effectively restored vision in a pediatric case.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) is a viral infection that can affect the eye.
  • Optic neuritis, inflammation of the optic nerve, is a potential complication of HZO.
  • Childhood HZO is less common than in adults, and its complications require specific attention.

Observation:

  • A six-year-old girl presented with HZO affecting her right eye.
  • During hospitalization, her visual acuity significantly decreased.
  • Diagnostic imaging, including fluorescein angiography (FAG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), confirmed optic neuritis.

Findings:

  • Treatment with acyclovir (antiviral) and corticosteroids resulted in improved visual acuity within one month.
  • Fluorescein angiography (FAG) showed no leakage at the optic disc post-treatment.
  • One year after treatment, the patient's fundus examination and vision returned to normal.

Implications:

  • This case suggests that prompt antiviral and steroid therapy can be effective for optic neuritis secondary to HZO in children.
  • Early diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing long-term visual impairment.
  • Further research into childhood HZO complications and their treatment is warranted.

Keywords:
Herpes zoster ophthalmicusOptic neuritis

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