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Cytomegalovirus retinitis and AIDS in Edinburgh
B Dhillon1, H Maclean, D Eddyshaw
1Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion, Edinburgh, UK.
International Journal of STD & AIDS
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) in AIDS patients preserved vision in most cases. Despite treatment side effects and recurrences, 87.5% retained useful sight.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) is a significant opportunistic infection in patients with Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing CMVR and preventing vision loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of systemic ganciclovir or foscarnet in preserving vision for patients with CMVR and AIDS.
- To assess treatment-related side effects, recurrence rates, and long-term visual outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records, retinal drawings, and fundus photographs of 24 AIDS patients diagnosed with CMVR between 1986-1992.
- Analysis of visual acuity, ophthalmoscopic findings, treatment responses, and survival rates.
Main Results:
- 32 eyes of 24 patients (19 males, 5 females) were affected by CMVR.
- While 66% experienced toxic side effects and 54% had recurrences, 87.5% of patients retained useful vision (6/18 or better) at follow-up.
- Mean survival after CMVR diagnosis was 8.3 months.
Conclusions:
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment of CMVR in AIDS patients can lead to successful vision preservation in the majority of cases.
- Despite challenges like side effects and recurrence, effective management strategies exist.
- Continued monitoring and timely intervention are vital for optimizing visual outcomes in this patient population.