Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada Disease after SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Case Report

Abstract

Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a multifaceted condition. The COVID-19 is associated with various ocular manifestations including conjunctivitis, retinal vein occlusion and optic neuritis. The case of VKH disease associated with SARS-CoV-2 was rare and the specific association is still unclear. Case Presentation In the present study, a 35-year-old female patient with no significant medical history presented with one week of bilateral blurred vision 2 weeks after a clinical course of COVID-19. Both eyes presented with bullous serous retinal detachments. She was diagnosed with incomplete Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) disease. Early diagnosis and treatment of VKH disease are essential for the visual prognosis of this aggressive disease. Ocular inflammatory signs and visual acuity improved via corticosteroid therapy in this patient. The case of VKH disease associated with SARS-CoV-2 was rare and the specific association is still unclear. By reviewing similar studies previously reported, we discuss and summarize the potential mechanisms explaining the association between VKH disease and SARS-CoV-2. Conclusion Although the causality remains unclear, ophthalmologists and physicians should be aware of this possible association between VKH disease and COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 may play a potential immunological triggering role in VKH disease. However, further in-depth researches are necessary to investigate the clinical and epidemiological features, as well as the underlying mechanisms of it. Keywords: Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada disease; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19; case report