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[The so-called "ocular histoplasmosis syndrome"]
W Behrens-Baumann1, S Ecker, M Vogel
1Univ.-Augenklinik Göttingen.
Klinische Monatsblatter Fur Augenheilkunde
|April 1, 1988
Summary
Presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome mimics are not caused by histoplasmosis. Other infectious agents, potentially including Epstein-Barr virus, may cause these distinct eye lesions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Context:
- Presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome (POHS) is characterized by specific ophthalmoscopic findings.
- Diagnostic criteria for POHS typically include positive skin tests for histoplasmosis.
Purpose:
- To investigate the etiology of ocular conditions presenting with POHS-like features.
- To identify potential causative agents beyond Histoplasma capsulatum.
Summary:
- Seven patients with POHS-like ophthalmoscopic findings tested negative for humoral antibodies and skin reactivity to Histoplasma.
- Extensive testing for other infectious agents, including Listeria, syphilis, leptospirosis, Chlamydia psittaci, Toxocara, toxoplasmosis, and Candida, was also negative.
- Two of six patients exhibited elevated antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens, suggesting a possible role for EBV in mimicking POHS.
Impact:
- Challenges the traditional understanding of POHS etiology.
- Highlights the existence of unknown agents that can replicate the clinical appearance of POHS.
- Suggests EBV as a potential differential diagnosis for POHS-like presentations.