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Optic neuropathy associated with cryptococcal arachnoiditis in AIDS patients
B K Lipson1, W R Freeman, J Beniz
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|May 15, 1989
Summary
Cryptococcal meningitis can cause bilateral vision loss due to optic neuropathy. This condition may result from perineuritic adhesive arachnoiditis, suggesting potential benefits from medical or surgical interventions to preserve sight.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Cryptococcal meningitis is a serious fungal infection primarily affecting the central nervous system.
- Optic neuropathy can lead to significant visual impairment.
- Bilateral visual loss necessitates prompt diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- Two cases of bilateral visual loss were observed following cryptococcal meningitis.
- Patients presented with a history of vision loss subsequent to the onset of meningitis.
- Visual field testing indicated optic nerve dysfunction in both individuals.
Findings:
- The visual loss was attributed to perineuritic adhesive arachnoiditis affecting the optic nerves.
- This inflammatory process likely caused constriction and damage to the optic nerves.
- No surgical interventions were performed in these specific cases.
Implications:
- Perineuritic adhesive arachnoiditis is a potential cause of visual impairment in cryptococcal meningitis.
- Early medical or surgical intervention may be crucial for preventing or alleviating optic nerve compression.
- Prompt treatment could help preserve vision in patients with this complication.