Anterior Uveitis After Treatment of Hepatitis C with Alpha Interferon: The Recurrence of a Previous Inflammatory Process due to Presumed Ocular Toxocariasis

Abstract

Objective: To report a case of recurrent unilateral presumed ocular toxocariasis after treatment of hepatitis C. Design: Case study. Methods: Clinical findings, ultrasonography, computed tomography, and serological tests were performed. Once diagnosis was made, effective treatment was administered.

Results: A 46-year-old woman with a long history of decreased unilateral visual acuity presented with anterior uveitis after the use of interferon alpha and ribavirin for treatment of hepatitis C. A biomicroscopic examination revealed active anterior uveitis, with ultrasonography and computed tomography demonstrating a central granuloma due to partially calcified toxocariasis. After treatment with corticosteroids and cycloplegics, the symptoms were alleviated. Conclusion: immunostimulation could cause a relapse of the inflammatory reaction found in uveitis due to toxocariasis.

Keywords::

• hepatitis C
• interferon treatment
• toxocariasis
• uveitis
• uveitis recurrence

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