Retinal perivasculitis in an immunocompetent patient with systemic herpes simplex infection.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To describe a case of retinal perivasculitis in an immunocompetent patient with systemic herpes simplex infection. METHODS: Polymerase chain reaction amplifications were performed for aqueous and blood samples using primers specific for the following members of the herpesvirus family cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex virus (types 1 and 2), and varicella-zoster virus. The patient was placed on intravenous acyclovir and systemic corticosteroids. RESULTS: A positive polymerase chain reaction signal was found only for herpes simplex virus type 1. Vision in the left eye improved from light perception to 20/25, and signs of retinal perivasculitis resolved. CONCLUSION: The use of molecular diagnostic modalities in clinical practice may aid in determining infectious etiologies in patients with atypical clinical manifestations.