Failure of sorivudine therapy in progressive outer retinal necrosis caused by varicella zoster virus

G Rosenthal1, K U Bartz-Schmidt, P Walter

  • 1Department of Vitreoretinal Surgery, University of Cologne, Germany. gidir@ramat-negev.org.il

Abstract

Insights

This case study highlights a patient with progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) syndrome unresponsive to multiple antiviral treatments. The study underscores the poor prognosis and common recurrence of PORN, even with advanced therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Progressive outer retinal necrosis (PORN) syndrome is a severe ocular condition.
  • This case involves a young female patient with PORN syndrome.

Observation:

  • The patient presented with characteristic ocular signs of PORN syndrome.
  • Standard antiviral treatments including acyclovir, ganciclovir, foscarnet, and oral sorivudine were administered.

Findings:

  • Despite a combination of antiviral therapies, the patient showed no response.
  • The retinitis progressed, ultimately leading to blindness.

Implications:

  • The prognosis for PORN syndrome remains poor, even with novel therapeutic agents.
  • Recurrence of PORN syndrome is a significant clinical concern, necessitating further research into effective management strategies.

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