[Rifabutin-induced hypopyon iritis in HIV infection]
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 3, 2026

A High-throughput Cre-Lox Activated Viral Membrane Fusion Assay to Identify Inhibitors of HIV-1 Viral Membrane Fusion
Published on: August 14, 2018
P R Diemer1, E W Zeh, E G Weidle
1Augenklinik des Katharinenhospitals Stuttgart.
Background:
Rifabutin is a new semisynthetic rifamycin which is approved in Germany for clinical application since 1/15/95. The drug is used for prophylaxis and treatment of Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (MAI) infection in patients with AIDS. In 1994 it was reported that rifabutin can cause anterior uveitis. This side effect is dose-dependent and aggravated, when the drug is combined with clarithromycin and/or fluconazol.
Patient:
A 32-year-old woman suffered from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and systemic MAI. She was treated with a combination of rifabutin (450 mg/day), clarithromycin (750 mg/day) and ethambutol (800 mg/day). 78 days later she developed a unilateral hypopyon iritis.
Results:
Rifabutin was discontinued and topical steroids and mydriatics were given. The uveitis disappeared within two weeks.
Conclusions:
The ophthalmologist should be aware of this new potential etiology of anterior uveitis. Rifabutin should be withdrawn immediately. Anti-inflammatory eye drops might be helpful.
Related Concept Videos
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Pulmonary Tuberculosis I
Causative Organism
The primary infectious agent causing tuberculosis is Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a slow-growing, acid-fast, aerobic rod that exhibits sensitivity to heat and ultraviolet light. Instances of Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium contributing to the development of TB infection are rare.
Mode of...
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Immunodeficiency Diseases
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency disorders...
Inhibitors of Virion Maturation and Assembly
Pulmonary Tuberculosis V
Latent tuberculosis infection occurs when TB bacteria are present in a person's body, but are not causing illness or symptoms. It is not contagious, and preventive treatment is crucial to avoid the progression...