Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Overview

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a close relative to the herpes simplex virus and herpes zoster virus and is actually so common that nearly everyone has been exposed to it. For most of us, it poses no problem because our immune systems can fight it off with ease. Cytomegalovirus becomes a problem for people whose immune system is suppressed – whether it be during a bone marrow transplant, a person on chemotherapy, or an individual suffering from AIDS. Cytomegalovirus can cause serious damage when the immune system is not able to fight it off.

CMV is transmitted from person to person, through close contact of body fluids. Cytomegalovirus is found in the blood, urine, saliva, semen, cervical secretions, and breast milk.

CMV Retinitis

Cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMV retinitis) is the term used when the retina at the back of the eye becomes involved in a cytomegalovirus infection. CMV retinitis occurs in about 30% of AIDS patients infected with cytomegalovirus.

Cytomegalovirus retinitis is sight-threatening and in the case of AIDS patients, the risk of blindness becomes worse as T-cell count decreases and the immune system weakens. Often CMV can lead to blindness through such situations as a retinal detachment, hemorrhaging, and inflammation of the retinal cells leading to cell death and loss of photoreceptor function.

Signs & Symptoms of Cytomegalovirus

Cytomegalovirus retinitis often will produce symptoms, but it may not. Some of the more common symptoms associated with CMV retinitis include the following:

floaters
flashes of light
blind spots
blurred vision
sudden decrease in vision

As for non-eye-related symptoms, cytomegalovirus infection generally produces symptoms similar to that of mononucleosis (mono): fatigue and general lack of well-being. Immunosuppressed individuals tend to develop pneumonia as a result of CMV infection.

Figure: CMV Retinitis. Courtesy of EyeAtlas.com.

Detection & Diagnosis of CMV Retinitis

All individuals who are immunosuppressed should ensure that they are making regular visits to their optometrist and physician. Cytomegalovirus retinitis is first diagnosed upon visual inspection of the back of the eye by an eyecare professional (using a specialized instrument known as an ophthalmoscope). The doctor will be able to see whether or not there is virus activity within the eye.

Cytomegalovirus Treatment

The main goal of CMV retinitis treatment is to slow the progression of the disease. The best treatment for CMV retinitis is antiviral medications such as ganciclovir and foscarnet.

[ Back to Eye Conditions A-Z ]

Disclaimer

The information provided by KnowYourEyes.com is intended for educational purposes only and in no way replaces the advice and diagnosis of a licensed eye care professional. KnowYourEyes.com disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that may result from use of the information obtained from this website.