Ocular presentation of Mpox in a healthy child without known exposure

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is a viral disease with increasing global incidence.
• Ocular complications are recognized but rarely reported in healthy children outside endemic regions.
• Atypical presentations can delay diagnosis.

Observation:

• A healthy pediatric patient presented with ocular symptoms following eye trauma.
• Initial symptoms mimicked common, benign eye conditions due to the absence of a prodromal phase.
• The Mpox infection was localized to the eye and periorbital area.

Findings:

• This case details a rare pediatric presentation of Mpox.
• Ocular Mpox occurred in a healthy child without a typical prodrome or known exposure.
• The localized ocular and periorbital symptoms were initially misattributed.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering Mpox in pediatric ocular emergencies, even with atypical signs.
• Underscores the need for heightened awareness of Mpox in non-endemic areas.
• Emphasizes the diagnostic challenge posed by Mpox presenting solely with ocular manifestations.