Cytomegalovirus Retinitis (CMV Retinitis)

What you should know about it.
Cytomegalovirus retinitis is an acute viral eye infection of the retina. The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye, necessary for vision. CMV retinitis affects people with a weakened immune system caused by a bone marrow transplant, HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy. However, people with HIV/AIDS who are taking antiretroviral therapies have a lower risk of contracting the condition.
Symptoms
Many people with CMV retinitis experience no symptoms. Some symptoms are indicative of the virus. These symptoms may appear in one eye first, then in the other eye. Some of them include:
• Floaters in the eye: These are spots in your vision that may look to you like black or grey specks, strings, or cobwebs that drift about when you move your eyes and appear to dart away when you try to look at them directly.
• Flashes in the eye: These are sparks or strands of light that flicker across the visual field. Sometimes it appears at the corner of your eyes. It is typically not a condition on its own but could be an indication of an eye problem.
• Blurred vision: When CMV invades the retina, it compromises the light-sensitive receptors that enable you to see. It does not cause any pain though you may experience reduced visual acuity known as blurry vision.
Treatment
Visit your eye care professional as soon as possible. The first step is to strengthen your immune system. The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of helping your vision. If only one eye is affected, receiving early treatment may protect the other eye.
If you have a weak immune system, you should have your eyes examined regularly for early detection.
Our board-certified ophthalmologists at Accent Eyes are ready to be of service. Book your recommended annual appointment today.