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Rubella virus as a possible etiological agent of Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis

Jun Suzuki1, Hiroshi Goto, Katsuhiro Komase

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University Hospital, 6-7-1 Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan. jun-s@qc4.so-net.ne.jp

Graefe'S Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology = Albrecht Von Graefes Archiv Fur Klinische Und Experimentelle Ophthalmologie
|June 30, 2010
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This study investigated the link between rubella virus and Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI). Laboratory findings strongly suggest rubella virus plays a role in FHI pathogenesis.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Virology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI) is an ocular inflammatory condition of unknown etiology.
  • Investigating potential infectious agents in FHI pathogenesis is crucial for understanding the disease.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the involvement of rubella virus in the pathogenesis of Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis.
  • To assess intraocular antibody production against rubella virus in FHI patients.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of aqueous humor and vitreous samples from FHI patients and controls for rubella virus antibodies using the Goldmann-Witmer coefficient (GWC).
  • Detection of rubella virus genome via nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and viral isolation in cell culture.
  • Collection of medical history regarding rubella virus vaccination status.

Main Results:

  • Intraocular synthesis of rubella virus antibodies (GWC > 3) was detected in 10 out of 14 FHI patients.
  • Rubella virus genome was detected in 2 patients, and the virus was isolated from 1 patient.
  • No FHI patients in the study had a history of rubella virus vaccination.

Conclusions:

  • Laboratory findings provide strong evidence for a relationship between rubella virus and Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis.
  • Rubella virus infection is a potential causative agent in the pathogenesis of FHI.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of rubella virus-induced FHI.

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