Cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMV retinitis) is a dander viral eye infection of the retina which affects the eyes. The light-sensing nerve layer that lines the back of the eye is known as the retina. Most frequently, those with compromised immune systems develop CMV retinitis.
Floaters and blurred vision may slowly start to appear as CMV retinitis symptoms over the course of a few days. Loss of peripheral (side) vision may result from this. The symptoms might sometimes start with a blind patch in the centre of vision and progress to the loss of central vision. Commonly, the symptoms begin in one eye and then spread to the other. CMV retinitis affects the optic nerve and kills the retina in the absence of treatment or immune system improvement. Reduced vision or possibly blindness occur from this. A detached retina is a common complication of CMV retinitis.
The cytomegalovirus is the cause by the CMV retinitis. Most adults have this type of herpes virus, however, majority of patients with CMV do not exhibit any signs of an infection. They will never have any issues as a result of the virus. But the virus can reactivate and propagate to the retina in patients with compromised immune systems. This can lead to vision-threatening eye problems.
People with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to CMV retinitis. This includes individuals with HIV/AIDS, those receiving immunosuppressive medication for cancer or leukaemia, and organ transplant (including bone marrow transplants).
Prior to the development of highly active antiretroviral medication, CMV retinitis was a prevalent issue for AIDS patients. People with HIV or AIDS are still more likely to develop CMV retinitis, despite the fact that it is currently less common. They ought to frequently visit an ophthalmologist.
After dilation (widening) of the pupils, your ophthalmologist will check your eyes. Your ophthalmologist will examine your retina and other parts of your eye for indications of CMV retinitis.
Treatment for CMV retinitis should include boosting your immune system. If they are receiving highly active antiretroviral (HAART) medication, people with HIV or AIDS frequently get better.
Additionally, there are particular CMV retinitis therapies. Ganciclovir and other antiviral medications can be administered orally, intravenously, intraocularly, as an injection into the eye, or as an implant in the eye that releases drug gradually.
Laser surgery by your ophthalmologist is frequently required. The risk of retinal detachment, in which the injured retina develops tears and falls off the back of the eye, may be decreased by the laser.
Despite existing treatments, CMV retinitis cannot restore vision that has been lost. The disease may continue advance even with treatment. Because CMV retinitis recurrence is frequent, regular ophthalmologist visits are crucial.
At The Eye Center- Dr. Mahnaz Naveed Shah & Associates our team of eight ophthalmology subspecialists/ eye specialists, eye surgeons who are considered amongst the very best eye specialists in Karachi and in Pakistan, have the diagnostic and treatment capabilities to treat from the simplest to the most complex patients. We work hard to provide our patients with the best possible medical and surgical eye care, in a state of the art purpose built eye care facility. We offer the entire array of medical, laser and surgical treatments to help provide patients the best possible care in the most efficient, safe and ethical manner.
If you need an appointment, please contact us at 03041119544 during our working hours or leave us a WhatsApp message at +923028291799 and someone will connect with you. Walk-in appointments are also available for emergencies. We can also be reached through our web portal on www.surgicaleyecenter.org
