Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Retinitis

B25.8


DESCRIPTION

Characteristic appearance: opacification of the retina with areas of haemorrhage, exudate and necrosis.
Occurs in immunocompromised patients and could be an important cause of visual impairment in HIV infected patients.

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA

  • Confirm retinitis with ophthalmological assessment.
  • Confirm CMV disease with DNA PCR.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

  • Ganciclovir, intravitreal, 2 mg once a week (Opthalmologist treatment).
    Once immune function has been restored with antiretroviral therapy, i.e. CD4 > 100 cells/mm3, maintenance ganciclovir can be stopped but monitor for recurrence.

REFERRAL

  • All patients to confirm diagnosis and manage treatment.