Abstract
Purpose::
To determine the frequency of poor outcome in ocular bartonellosis and potential predictors of poor outcome.
Methods::
A multicenter retrospective chart review was conducted. Inclusion criteria consisted of evidence of intraocular inflammation, positive serologic testing for B. henselae, and follow-up of at least 2 months. 42 patients from 5 different institutions were identified. 16 patients were excluded due to inadequate follow-up. 26 patients were included with average length of follow-up of 7.6 months. Data reviewed included patient age, visual acuity, fundus findings, systemic symptoms, and type of treatment. The primary outcome measurement was visual acuity of 20/40 or worse.
Results::
Visual acuity at initial evaluation ranged from 20/15 to counting fingers and fundus findings included: vitritis, optic nerve edema, macular edema, macular star, deep retinal lesions, CWS, serous retinal detachment, BRVO, and macular hole. 69% patients (18 patients, 60% eyes) had vision of 20/40 or worse at initial presentation. 23% patients (6 patients, 18% eyes) had vision of 20/40 or worse at final examination. All patients with a poor outcome had 20/40 or worse vision at presentation. No patients with better than 20/40 visual acuity at presentation had a poor outcome.
Conclusions::
The majority of patients (69%) presented with vision of 20/40 or worse. One third of these patients experienced a poor outcome of 20/40 vision or worse. No patients with better than 20/40 vision at presentation had a poor outcome.