FP820 : Community Acquired RetinitisDr. Spurthi G Reddy (S12838)
PURPOSE: To report the outcome of an epidemic of community acquired atypical necrotizing retinopathy in South India.
METHODS: 20 eyes of 12 patients with retinitis clinically not meeting the criteria for ARN or CMV retinitis were included. Investigated with baseline blood tests, TPHA, Mantoux test, FFA, Chest X ray, PCR for Chikungunya, WNV, Dengue and HRCT, Weil Felix test, PCR done in feasible cases. Empirically, oral antivirals or tetracyclines with titrated oral steroids were started and monitored with serial photographs, OCT and FAF.
RESULTS: Positive therapeutic response noted in 91%. 17 eyes attained BCVA of 6/6, one needed PRP, one ended in RD. One PCR showed VZV and Weil Felix test was positive in another. Follow up ranged up to 4 months with no recurrences.
CONCLUSION: Atypical necrotizing retinopathy is increasingly being recognized as an epidemic. Clustering of cases and therapeutic response suggest a viral etiology and PCR of body fluids is the definitive diagnostic test.