Retrobulbar neuritis in a patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Bilateral Retrobulbar Optic Neuritis Caused by Varicella Zoster Virus in a Patient with AIDS

Aims

To report on a case of bilateral retrobulbar optic neuritis in a patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV); and to review the literature focusing on: cases reported, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment.

Presentation of Case

A 38-year-old woman with AIDS presented with a 10-day history of progressive bilateral visual loss and ocular pain. She had bilateral dilated pupils with no light perception; the fundoscopic examination was normal. Facial herpes zoster lesions appeared on the second day of hospitalization Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were compatible with a bilateral optic neuritis; the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) showed pleocytosis, increased proteins and a positive VZV-DNA PCR. She was treated with intravenous acyclovir and corticosteroids and was able, when discharged 2 weeks after admission, to carry out activities of daily living.

Discussion

VZV retrobulbar optic neuritis has previously been reported in 12 patients with AIDS, more than half of the cases had concomitant herpes zoster and an associated retinopathy. A positive VZV-DNA in the CSF is indicative of VZV infection, initial use of intravenous acyclovir is recommended, and the concomitant use of corticosteroids would be a prudent choice; the duration of antiviral therapy remains undefined.

Conclusion

VZV retrobulbar optic neuritis in AIDS patients can occur with or without herpes zoster. It is a sight-threatening infectious and inflammatory process requiring the advice of specialists in infectious diseases, ophthalmology, neurology and viral microbiology.

Unilateral retrobulbar optic neuritis due to varicella zoster virus in a patient with AIDS: A case report and review of the literature

Unilateral retrobulbar optic neuritis developed in a 43-year-old man with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This was secondary to varicella zoster virus (VZV) as confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection of VZV in the cerebrospinal fluid. There was no typical cutaneous infection and no evidence of retinitis. The onset of unexplained visual loss due to optic neuritis in HIV positive individuals may be due to VZV infection. Prompt recognition, and early intervention with antiVZV therapy may preserve vision. Retrobulbar optic neuritis secondary to VZV infection should be considered in immunocompromised patients even in the absence of cutaneous or retinal lesions. Previous cases are reviewed and the varied nature of viral transport in the nervous system is noted.

Varicella zoster virus retrobulbar optic neuritis preceding retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe a recently recognized and rare presentation of varicella zoster virus (VZV) retrobulbar optic neuritis preceding retinitis in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome and to identify factors that may relate to improved visual outcome.

METHODS

Diagnosis, treatment, and clinical course are described for three eyes of two patients with this viral infection.

RESULTS

Patients had decreased vision, headache, and recent zoster dermatitis. Varicella zoster virus retrobulbar optic neuritis was diagnosed on the bases of clinical, laboratory, and electrophysiologic examination results. Profound vision loss and peripheral retinitis ensued despite intravenous antiviral treatment. Combination intravenous and intravitreous antiviral injections were administered with dramatic visual recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

Varicella zoster virus retrobulbar optic neuritis should be considered in immunocompromised patients with visual loss. Early diagnosis and aggressive combination therapy via systemic and intravitreous routes may enable return of useful vision.