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Monkeypox Infection Causing Conjunctival Vesicles and Anterior Uveitis
Erika Moreira Carvalho1, Manuela Medeiros2, Valdilea Gonçalves Veloso3
1Laboratory of Infectious Diseases in Ophthalmology, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Ocular Immunology and Inflammation
|February 17, 2023
Summary
Human monkeypox, a zoonotic orthopoxvirus, can cause eye issues like conjunctivitis and uveitis. While often mild, complications like vision loss risk severe outcomes, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by an orthopoxvirus, presenting symptoms similar to smallpox.
- The prodromal phase includes lymphadenopathy, headache, fatigue, and fever, followed by a characteristic rash.
- Ocular manifestations occur in about 20% of cases, more frequently in unvaccinated individuals.
Observation:
- Conjunctivitis and eyelid edema are common ocular symptoms.
- Corneal involvement, including scarring and severe keratitis, has been documented.
- This case highlights monkeypox presenting with conjunctival vesicles and anterior uveitis.
Findings:
- Monkeypox can lead to significant ocular complications beyond typical conjunctivitis.
- Anterior uveitis is a potential manifestation of monkeypox infection.
- The severity of ocular involvement may correlate with vaccination status and immune status.
Implications:
- Early recognition of ocular symptoms in monkeypox is crucial for timely intervention.
- Ophthalmologists should consider monkeypox in the differential diagnosis of acute conjunctivitis and uveitis.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term visual prognosis and management strategies for monkeypox-related ocular disease.
