Diffuse uveitis and chorioretinal changes after yellow fever vaccination: a re-emerging epidemic

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vaccinology
• Immunology

Background:

• Yellow fever vaccination campaigns are increasing globally.
• Ophthalmological side effects of non-combined yellow fever vaccines are rarely documented.
• This study investigates a case of post-vaccination ocular complications.

Observation:

• A patient developed systemic (hematological, hepatic, renal) and ocular issues after yellow fever vaccination.
• Ocular findings included bilateral asymmetric diffuse uveitis with keratic precipitates and mild vitritis.
• Multimodal imaging revealed subtle puntiform choriocapillaris changes with reduced vascular density.

Findings:

• The patient experienced uveitis and choriocapillaris alterations following yellow fever vaccination.
• Systemic involvement preceded the onset of ocular manifestations.
• While vision improved with treatment, imaging findings persisted.

Implications:

• Clinicians must consider ocular side effects, including subtle choriocapillaris changes, as potential adverse events post-yellow fever vaccination.
• Awareness of these manifestations is vital for timely diagnosis and management to prevent vision impairment.
• Further research into vaccine-induced ocular pathophysiology is warranted.