[Findings in the eyes of serologically FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) positive cats]

The findings in the eyes of 19 serologically FIV-positive cats in the terminal stage of the disease were compared to those in 23 serologically FIV-negative cats. An inflammation of iris and ciliary body was more common in the FIV-group than in the other cats and could be seen in 16 out of 19 serologically FIV-positive cats. In most cases a diffuse infiltration of both lymphocytes and plasma cells could be observed. There were only few signs of acute inflammation in the posterior segment. Degenerative alterations of the retina were found in all groups. The most common degenerative finding was a cystoid atrophy of the retina. Due to these findings an association of FIV-infection and anterior uveitis seems to be very likely. It remained unclear whether the FIV was involved directly or whether indirect mechanisms like secondary infections or alterations in the immune system caused the inflammation.