EPSTEIN-BARR VIRUS-ASSOCIATED FROSTED BRANCH ANGIITIS

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, commonly known as mononucleosis, can lead to various systemic and ocular complications.
• Frosted branch angiitis (FBA) is a rare condition characterized by inflammation of the retinal vasculature, often associated with systemic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report two cases of bilateral frosted branch angiitis (FBA) in patients with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
• To describe the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of FBA associated with EBV.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of two patients diagnosed with FBA and EBV infection.
• Review of clinical presentations, diagnostic findings, treatment regimens, and visual outcomes.

Main Results:

• Case 1: A 17-year-old female with mononucleosis developed bilateral FBA, vitritis, and vascular sheathing, which improved with oral prednisone and valacyclovir, with a recurrence managed by sub-Tenon's injections.
• Case 2: A 20-year-old male with EBV meningoencephalitis presented with severe bilateral vision loss due to FBA, complicated by bacillary detachments and neuroretinitis, successfully treated with systemic corticosteroids, antivirals, and intravitreal dexamethasone implants.

Conclusions:

• Bilateral frosted branch angiitis can be a manifestation of Epstein-Barr virus infection.
• Corticosteroids and antiviral therapy are effective in managing FBA secondary to EBV infection, leading to favorable visual recovery.