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Cytomegalovirus Retinitis: A Review.
Alexander D Port1, Anton Orlin1, Szilard Kiss1
1Department of Ophthalmology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York-Presbyterian Hospital , New York, New York.
Summary
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, a serious eye infection in immunocompromised patients, has seen a dramatic decrease in incidence and improved outcomes due to advances in antiretroviral therapy for AIDS. Diagnosis is clinical, with treatments including antiviral medications and management of complications like retinal detachment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common DNA herpes virus causing severe illness in immunocompromised individuals.
- CMV retinitis, a major cause of blindness in advanced acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) before effective treatments, also affects other immune-deficient patients.
- Modern antiretroviral therapies for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have drastically reduced CMV retinitis incidence and improved visual prognoses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis.
- To highlight the impact of antiretroviral therapy on CMV retinitis in the context of AIDS.
Main Methods:
- Clinical diagnosis is the primary method for identifying CMV retinitis.
- Treatment involves systemic and intravitreal antiviral medications.
- Management strategies address complications such as retinal detachment and immune recovery uveitis.
Main Results:
- Antiretroviral therapy has led to a >90% reduction in CMV retinitis incidence among AIDS patients.
- Visual outcomes for affected individuals have significantly improved with modern treatments.
- Specific treatments are required for sight-threatening complications.
Conclusions:
- CMV retinitis remains a significant concern in immunocompromised populations.
- Advances in HIV treatment have transformed the prognosis of CMV retinitis.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of CMV retinitis and its complications are crucial for preserving vision.
