Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026
11:20
Retinal Pigment Epithelium Transplantation in a Non-human Primate Model for Degenerative Retinal Diseases
Published on: June 14, 2021
4.5K
Progressive outer retinal necrosis-like retinitis in immunocompetent hosts
Rohan Chawla1, Koushik Tripathy1, Varun Gogia1
1Department of Ophthalmology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|August 12, 2016
Summary
Two immunocompetent women developed PORN-like retinitis, possibly worsened by oral steroids. Valaciclovir treatment showed efficacy, but outcomes varied, highlighting steroid risks in retinitis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) is typically seen in immunocompromised individuals.
- Autoimmune chorioretinitis can be treated with immunosuppressive therapy, such as oral steroids.
Observation:
- Two young, immunocompetent women presented with bilateral retinitis exhibiting outer retinal necrosis.
- Lesions showed centrifugal spread and multifocal characteristics, mimicking PORN.
- Both patients were on oral steroids for suspected autoimmune chorioretinitis at presentation.
Findings:
- Retinitis responded well to oral valaciclovir therapy in both patients.
- One eye with severe involvement developed retinal detachment and vision loss.
- The less affected eye showed retinal atrophy with preserved vision.
Implications:
- This case series suggests a unique presentation of PORN-like retinitis in immunocompetent women.
- Short-term oral steroid use may exacerbate or unmask viral retinitis in susceptible individuals.
- Prompt antiviral treatment is crucial, but outcomes depend on disease severity and potential steroid-induced complications.
