Spectrum of Newly Diagnosed Cytomegalovirus Retinitis in a Developing Country in the HAART Era

ABSTRACT

Purpose: To characterize the presenting features of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis in HIV-positive patients in a developing country in the HAART era.

Methods: Retrospective chart review of all patients with CMV retinitis seen at a tertiary-care referral center between January 2006 to June 2017. Demographic and clinical data were collected to study the presenting features and risk factors for blindness.

Results: Fifty-five patients with treatment-naïve CMV retinitis were enrolled; 75% were males. CD4 counts were below 50 cells/µL in 51.1%. Bilateral presentation was seen in 61.5%. Half (50.6%) of the eyes were blind at first examination. Zone 1 involvement was present in 46% of the eyes. Retinal area involvement > 25% was the only factor associated significantly with higher incidence of blindness (p = 0.016).

Conclusions: There was extensive and bilateral presentation of CMV retinitis due to delayed presentation. Screening for CMV retinitis, irrespective of CD4 counts, may help in developing nations.

Keywords:

• AIDS
• CMV retinitis
• developing countries
• features
• HIV
• screening

Authorship

All authors attest that they meet the current ICMJE criteria for authorship.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.