Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: West Nile virus infection can have intraocular manifestations; however, little information exists about the ophthalmologic sequelae of this condition. We present our clinical experience with four patients with vitreoretinal involvement and review the intraocular manifestations of West Nile virus infection. Methods: We evaluated four patients with vitreoretinal sequelae from West Nile virus infection. Findings were documented with clinical examination, fluorescein angiography and fundus photography. Results: Since our group first described intraocular involvement with West Nile virus infection in February 2003, other groups have also reported cases. Based on our clinical experience and literature review, we have identified several intraocular manifestations of West Nile virus infection. These include: 1) linear arrays of chorioretinitis, 2) widely scattered foci of chorioretinitis, 3) occlusive retinal vasculitis, 4) vitritis without local chorioretinitis, and 5) congenital chorioretinal scarring secondary to intrauterine transmission. Conclusion: Multiple intraocular manifestations of West Nile virus may be observed, some of which may be sight–threatening. As the West Nile virus spreads across the United States, ophthalmologists should be aware of this presently uncommon but important condition.
Keywords: retina • chorioretinitis • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: natural history