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Cytomegalovirus
The cytomegalovirus (CMV) is related to the herpes virus and is present in almost everyone. Normally the immune system is able to fight the virus, preventing it from causing problems in their bodies. However, when the immune system is suppressed because of disease (HIV), organ or bone marrow transplant, or chemotherapy, the CMV virus can cause damage and disease to the eye and the rest of the body.

If we suspect an ocular condition or disease,
we will immediately schedule or perform
diagnostic tests to determined our next steps.

Photographs of retinas affected with CMV retinitis

CMV is the most common type of virus that infects those who are HIV positive. It affects the eye in about 30% of the cases by causing damage to the macula. This is called CMV retinitis. The likelihood of developing CMV retinitis increases as the CD4 cell count decreases.
Cytomegalovirus
 


Normal (unaffected) retina
CMV retinitis may affect one eye at first, but usually progresses to both eyes and becomes worse as the patient's ability to fight infection decreases. The virus is sight threatening and usually requires the care and treatment of a vitreo-retinal surgeon. Patients with CMV retinitis are at risk of retinal detachment, hemorrhages, and inflammation of the retina that can lead to permanent loss of vision and even blindness.
Cytomegalovirus
 

CSIGNS AND SYMPTOMS CMV retinitis usually causes symptoms, but not always. Patients with a condition that suppresses the immune system should watch for the following eye symptoms while under the care of a physician.
• Floaters (spots, bugs, spider webs)
• Light flashes
• Blind spots
• Blurred vision
• Obstructed areas of vision
• Sudden decrtease of vision DETECTION AND DIAGNOSIS Most patients with CMV retinitis are referred for eye treatment by another physician. The vitreo-retinal surgeon diagnoses CMV retinitis by thoroughly examining the back of the eye using ophthalmoscopy. Fluorescein angiography may be needed to evaluate the circulatory system of the retina. TREATMENT When managing CMV retinitis, the goal of the doctor is to slow the progression of the disease and to treat related eye problems. Anti-viral medications such as ganciclovir or foscarnet are often prescribed. These drugs can be administered orally, intravenously, injected directly into the eye or through an intravitreal implant



- 5 Convenient Locations -
Olive Branch
Poplar Commons
Southaven
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Master Eye Associates - Olive Branch 5218 Goodman Rd Olive Branch, MS 38654 Phone: Coming Soon
Master Eye Associates - Poplar Commons Poplar Commons 4562 Poplar Ave #115 Memphis, TN 38117 Phone: (901) 683-1796 Fax: (901) 683-1603
Master Eye Associates - Southaven 338 Goodman Rd W Southaven, MS 38671 Phone: (662) 510-7397 Fax: 9662) 598-4280
Master Eye Associates - Winchester 7706 Winchester Rd. #105 Memphis, TN 38125 Phone: (901) 752-1551 Fax: (901) 752-1505
Master Eye Associates - Wolfcreek 2825 N. Germantown Parkway #103 Memphis, TN 38133 Phone: (901) 384-9259 Fax: (901) 385-7592

Master Eye Associates proudly serves Memphis, TN and the surrounding areas of Cordova, Collierville, Southaven, Bartlett, Germantown, Olive Branch, Byhalia, Horn lake and West Memphis.

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