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Published on: August 21, 2017
Neuroretinitis caused by Bartonella quintana
Zeljka Vuković-Arar1, Zeljka Janjetović, Sandra Sekelj
1Department of Ophthalmology, Dr. Josip Benčević General Hospital, Slavonski Brod, Croatia. zvarar@net.hr
Summary
A case study reveals Bartonella quintana infection caused neuroretinitis in a woman, leading to vision loss. Prompt antibiotic treatment improved her vision and cleared retinal exudates.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Medical Microbiology
Background:
- Neuroretinitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the optic nerve and retina.
- Bartonella species are known to cause various infections, including cat-scratch disease.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old woman experienced persistent vision impairment in her left eye.
- Clinical examination showed significant peripapillary and macular exudates, suggesting an infectious etiology.
- Serologic testing revealed a dynamic IgG and IgM titer pattern consistent with Bartonella quintana infection.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with neuroretinitis secondary to Bartonella quintana infection.
- Treatment with tetracycline, azithromycin, and topical corticosteroids led to significant clinical improvement.
- Ophthalmic examination showed near-complete resolution of macular exudates after nine months of therapy.
Implications:
- This case highlights Bartonella quintana as a potential cause of neuroretinitis.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable visual outcomes.
- Ophthalmologists should consider Bartonella infections in patients presenting with unexplained neuroretinitis.
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