Chorioretinitis

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Chorioretinitis AIDS

A treatise on diagnostic methods of examination (1909)

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Severe, active retinochoroiditis by Toxoplasma gondii

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Fundus of patient with retinitis pigmentosa, mid stage

Chorioretinitis is an inflammation of the choroid and the retina of the eye. It is a serious condition that can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Chorioretinitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and trauma.

Causes

Chorioretinitis can be caused by several different factors, including:

• Infections: Bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections can all lead to chorioretinitis. Common infectious agents include Toxoplasma gondii, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus.
• Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as sarcoidosis, Behçet's disease, and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease can cause chorioretinitis.
• Trauma: Physical injury to the eye can result in inflammation of the choroid and retina.
• Systemic diseases: Diseases such as tuberculosis and syphilis can also lead to chorioretinitis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of chorioretinitis can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the inflammation. Common symptoms include:

• Blurred vision
• Floaters
• Eye pain
• Redness of the eye
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Decreased vision

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of chorioretinitis typically involves a thorough eye examination by an ophthalmologist. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Fundus photography: To capture detailed images of the retina and choroid.
• Fluorescein angiography: To visualize blood flow in the retina and choroid.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): To obtain cross-sectional images of the retina.
• Blood tests: To identify underlying infections or autoimmune conditions.

Treatment

The treatment of chorioretinitis depends on the underlying cause. Common treatments include:

• Antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungals: To treat infectious causes.
• Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation.
• Immunosuppressive drugs: For autoimmune-related chorioretinitis.
• Laser therapy: In some cases, laser treatment may be used to repair retinal damage.

Prognosis

The prognosis for chorioretinitis varies depending on the cause and the promptness of treatment. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for preventing permanent vision loss. Regular follow-up with an ophthalmologist is essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment as needed.

See also

• Uveitis
• Retinitis
• Choroiditis
• Ophthalmology