Retrobulbar optic neuritis is a rare complication of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). We report a case of a 27-year-old man who presented with a progressive left blurring of vision for one week. A history of vesicular rashes in the left trigeminal nerve area preceded his condition. On examination, we noted that his left eye visual acuity was hand movement, and his optic nerve function was reduced. Findings from examining the anterior segment and intraocular pressure were unremarkable. The fundus examination results were normal. A blood investigation was positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). MRI showed hyperintense features of the intraorbital segment of the optic nerve in the T2-weighted image. An abnormal high signal on a T2 weighted image may be present, which may be a clue for varicella zoster associated complications, such as HZO-related optic neuritis. Therefore, a diagnosis of retrobulbar optic neuritis was made, and antiviral treatment was initiated. He received two weeks of IV acyclovir and switched to the oral route for one month. After the completion of the treatment, his visual acuity remained the same.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.