Uveitis and retinal vasculitis associated with varicella-zoster virus: a case study and review of existing literature on vitrectomy management - Scorecard - MDSpire

Uveitis and retinal vasculitis associated with varicella-zoster virus: a case study and review of existing literature on vitrectomy management

  • By

  • Jingjing Tian

  • Yuze Jiang

  • Nannan Ye

  • Yankun Zhang

  • March 9, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Uveitis and retinal vasculitis associated with varicella-zoster virus: a case study and review of existing literature on vitrectomy management

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionVZV-induced uveitis and retinal vasculitis
Key MechanismsVaricella-Zoster Virus (VZV) reactivation affecting the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve
Target PopulationElderly patients with a history of VZV infection
Care SettingNeurology and ophthalmology departments

Key Highlights

  • VZV can lead to ocular complications in 50%-71% of herpes zoster ophthalmicus patients.
  • Timely diagnosis and treatment can preserve vision in cases of VZV-induced uveitis.
  • Intravitreal ganciclovir and systemic acyclovir are effective treatments.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Use metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) for pathogen identification in vitreous fluid.

Management

  • Administer intravenous acyclovir and local intravitreal ganciclovir for antiviral treatment.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular follow-up with ocular examinations to assess inflammation and visual acuity.

Risks

  • Delayed treatment can lead to blindness due to ocular complications.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Elderly male with a history of hypertension and recent visual decline.

Postoperative treatment included oral valacyclovir for two months after vitrectomy.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Early identification of VZV in cases of uveitis is crucial for effective management.
  • Utilize flow cytometry for cytokine testing in vitreous humor to differentiate uveitis from intraocular lymphoma.

References

Original Source(s)

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