Related Experiment Videos
Ophthalmic manifestations of Rochalimaea species
K C Golnik1, M E Marotto, M M Fanous
1Department of Ophthalmology, Storm Eye Institute, Charleston, South Carolina.
American Journal of Ophthalmology
|August 15, 1994
Summary
Rochalimaea bacteria, including Rochalimaea henselae and Rochalimaea quintana, can cause severe intraocular inflammation and vision loss. Prompt antibiotic treatment can significantly improve visual acuity in affected patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Rochalimaea henselae and R. quintana are bacteria implicated in various diseases.
- These bacteria are part of the order Rickettsiales.
- Known associated conditions include trench fever, bacillary angiomatosis, and cat scratch disease.
Observation:
- Four patients presented with intraocular inflammation of unknown etiology.
- Patients experienced moderate visual acuity loss, ranging from 20/25 to counting fingers.
- Inflammation involved both anterior and posterior segments, with retinal lesions, macular exudate, and optic nerve swelling.
Findings:
- All patients had high antibody titers (≥1:256) against R. henselae and R. quintana.
- Treatment with oral ciprofloxacin hydrochloride and prednisone, or doxycycline hyclate, led to significant vision improvement.
Implications:
- Rochalimaea species should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained intraocular inflammation.
- Inflammatory optic neuropathy may also be linked to Rochalimaea infections.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic therapy can lead to substantial recovery of visual function.