Monkeypox as an emerging infectious disease: the ophthalmic implications

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• The 2022 monkeypox outbreak is a global health emergency with significant case numbers worldwide.
• Monkeypox virus (a double-stranded DNA virus in the *Orthopoxvirus* genus) causes a zoonotic disease with potential for human-to-human transmission.
• Ophthalmologists must be aware of monkeypox due to potential ocular complications, similar to other orthopoxviruses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To inform ophthalmologists about the 2022 monkeypox outbreak and its ocular implications.
• To highlight the importance of recognizing and managing ophthalmic manifestations of monkeypox.
• To emphasize the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in treating ocular monkeypox.

Main Methods:

• Review of the 2022 monkeypox outbreak epidemiology and clinical presentation.
• Description of potential ophthalmic manifestations, including preseptal cellulitis, conjunctivitis, and keratitis.
• Discussion of current treatment strategies, including antivirals (tecovirimat) and smallpox vaccines.

Main Results:

• Monkeypox can present with symptoms mimicking common ophthalmic diseases, necessitating a thorough patient history.
• Ophthalmic involvement in monkeypox can lead to serious, vision-threatening complications.
• Tecovirimat is the primary oral antiviral treatment, with trifluridine eye-drops for ocular issues.

Conclusions:

• Ocular monkeypox requires prompt diagnosis and management by infectious disease specialists and ophthalmologists.
• Healthcare providers need to be vigilant for both cutaneous and ocular monkeypox presentations.
• Effective infection control measures are essential during this ongoing outbreak.