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Progressive outer retinal necrosis after rituximab and cyclophosphamide therapy
Mohit Dogra1, Priya Bajgai1, Ashok Kumar1
1Advanced Eye Centre, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Abstract:
We report a case of progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) in a patient of microscopic polyangitis (MPA), being treated with immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclophosphamide and rituximab. Her aqueous tap was positive for Varicella Zoster virus and she was treated with oral and intravitreal antivirals, along with discontinuation of one of the immunosuppressive agents, i.e. rituximab, which might have led to reactivation of the virus causing necrotizing retinitis lesions. Rituximab and cyclophosphamide are extremely potent drugs, which are necessary to manage immunological disorders such as MPA. However, they may predispose the patient to serious complications like viral infections, including PORN.
Insights
Progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) occurred in a microscopic polyangitis (MPA) patient on immunosuppressants. Varicella Zoster virus reactivation, potentially due to rituximab, caused necrotizing retinitis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Microscopic polyangitis (MPA) is an autoimmune vasculitis often requiring potent immunosuppressive therapy.
- Immunosuppression, particularly with agents like rituximab and cyclophosphamide, can increase the risk of opportunistic infections.
- Progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) is a severe necrotizing retinitis, typically caused by Varicella Zoster virus (VZV).
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