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Unilateral optic neuritis caused by Histoplasma capsulatum in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome
T H Yau1, P M Rivera-Velazquez, A S Mark
1Department of Ophthalmology, Washington Hospital Center, District of Columbia 20010, USA.
Purpose:
To evaluate the potential of Histoplasma capsulatum to cause optic neuritis in the setting of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Methods:
We examined a 35-year-old man with a history of AIDS and disseminated histoplasmosis who developed a unilateral progressive optic neuritis of enigmatic origin. An optic nerve sheath biopsy was performed to provide a tissue diagnosis.
Results:
Histoplasma capsulatum was identified in both the optic nerve sheath and fungal culture.
Conclusion:
Histoplasma capsulatum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of optic neuritis in patients with AIDS, even in the absence of chorioretinal findings.
Insights
Histoplasma capsulatum can cause optic neuritis in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This fungal infection was identified in the optic nerve sheath of an AIDS patient presenting with unexplained optic neuritis.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) predisposes individuals to opportunistic infections.
- Optic neuritis is a significant cause of vision loss, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
- Disseminated histoplasmosis is a known complication in advanced HIV infection.