NEURORETINITIS ASSOCIATED WITH COVID-19 INFECTION AND VARICELLA-ZOSTER VIRUS REACTIVATION
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Ana Uršula Gavrić1,2, Evelien Margareta Mylemans3, Nataša Vidovič Valentinčič1,2
1Eye Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Purpose:
To report a case of neuroretinitis as the presenting manifestation of COVID-19 infection alongside varicella-zoster virus reactivation, in the absence of other systemic symptoms.
Methods:
A case report.
Results:
A previously healthy 15-year-old boy presented with a 1-week history of acute unilateral visual loss and clinical findings consistent with neuroretinitis. Diagnostic work-up revealed a positive polymerase chain reaction test of nasopharyngeal swab for COVID-19 and serology showed the presence of immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies for varicella-zoster virus. After a comprehensive treatment regimen involving IV acyclovir, high-dose IV steroids, and oral doxycycline, rapid and remarkable improvements were observed. The macular star and optic disk swelling regressed, and visual acuity improved from 20/200 to 20/20.
Conclusion:
This case offers valuable insights into the neuroretinitis associated with COVID-19 infection and varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
Related Concept Videos
Chickenpox
Arboviral Encephalitis
Cytomegalovirus Disease
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Encephalitis l: Introduction
Encephalitis ll: Pathophysiology

