Bilateral multifocal chorioretinitis and optic neuritis due to Epstein-Barr virus: A case report

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a DNA virus that mainly causes infectious mononucleosis. Ocular manifestations are rare and typically mild. Only a few cases of EBV involving the retina or the optic nerve have been reported. Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old man with bilateral chorioretinitis and optic neuritis due to EBV. The patient had no previous ocular history and presented with decreased vision in both eyes. His past medical history included EBV encephalopathy, which was confirmed serologically, a few months before. Ophthalmological examination revealed bilateral chorioretinitis and optic neuritis, confirmed by fluorescein angiography as well as electrophysiological tests (visual evoked potentials and electroretinogram). It is very important to include EBV in the differential diagnosis of chorioretinal atrophic lesions. Clinicians should be aware of ocular manifestations of EBV, in order to suggest ophthalmological examination and start treatment promptly before irreversible damage to the optic nerve or retina occurs. © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.