Clinical features of cytomegalovirus retinitis, A retrospective analysis of 90 patients

Background To analyze the clinical features of patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis and provide evidence for a better understanding of the disease. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical manifestations of 90 patients with cytomegalovirus retinitis. The analysis included general data, visual acuity, intraocular pressure, anterior segment examination, vitreous body examination, and color fundus photography. Results The patients' ages ranged from 1 to 64 years, with 59 males and 31 females. Among the 90 patients, 18 had acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) as a secondary condition, 70 had various types of hematological diseases following bone marrow transplantation, 1 had a history of thymus extraction, and 1 had congenital autoimmune hemolytic anemia. Of the affected eyes, 35 cases were monocular and 55 were binocular. Anterior chamber inflammation was observed in 67 eyes out of 145 affected eyes, while 40 eyes showed significant vitreous inflammation. Some cases exhibited typical "cheese and ketchup" changes during fundus examination, with various fundus manifestations observed. Based on the extent and location of the lesions, they were classified into diffuse, hemilateral, and focal types. Conclusion Cytomegalovirus retinitis is more prevalent among immunodeficient individuals rather than those with normal immune systems. Regular eye examinations are recommended for patients of AIDS diagnosis and bone marrow transplantation. Understanding the clinical characteristics of the disease can aid in early diagnosis and treatment.