Fungal retinitis following influenza virus type A (H1N1) infection

Abstract

A 43-year-old male presented with left eye foveal retinits causing an acute visual loss following influenza virus type A infection (H1N1 infection or Swine flu). Considering viral (influenza) etiology, a prompt treatment with oral corticosteroids was started. But an initial poor response prompted an immediate diagnostic vitrectomy, which revealed Candida albicans. The retinitis healed with scar formation following anti-fungal therapy. This case highlights that even in the setting of an acute retinitis in an immunocompetent patient with recent history of viral systemic illness, a high index of suspicion of a fungal (rather than viral) infection should be kept in mind.