HIV Eye Infection

HIV has various symptoms. Its presence is apparent all over the body. Eyes are no exception. HIV may cause the infection in the anterior and posterior section of the eye. These infections are however, not harmful, as they can be treated completely, if diagnosed early.

The anterior section of the eye experiences tumour in the periocular tissues. While the posterior section of the eye experiences, opportunistic infections in the retina and the choriod. The opportunistic HIV eye infection intensifies as the virus mutate within the body. One of the most common and the most dangerous opportunistic HIV eye infection is Cytomegalovirus Retinitis (CMV). This infection causes inflammation in the retina, delicate nerve tissue behind our eye balls.

The retina is the most important property of our visionary senses, as it is responsible for transforming the perceived image into electrical impulses that the brains can interpret. Therefore, if this is not treated in a few days, it may lead to serious eye problems or even blindness in a few months.

What is CMV?

CMV is a very common virus that mostly attacks our eyes. In a healthy person, it is overpowered by the natural immune system. However, this is not the case for a HIV positive. The inability to fight the CMV virus enables its growth and gradual propagation all over the body.

Common symptoms of HIV eye infection

HIV eye infection symptoms are very similar to those of any other eye infections, like conjunctivitis. Therefore, one may not pay much heed to these symptoms. However, it is better not to take any risk if the patient witnesses the following symptoms:

1. Pain in the eyes
2. Sensitivity to light
3. Gradual loss of vision
4. Redness in the eyes
5. Black spots in the field of vision

However, the above symptoms do not necessarily mean the invariable presence of HIV eye infection virus like CMV. They could also be other medical reasons. Thus, a person belonging to the high risk groups should not take chances and visit the doctor immediately , if any of these symptoms are seen.

Other common HIV eye infections are:

• Cotton wool: It can lead to slight bleeding and white spots in the retina.
• Karposi's Sarcoma: It is a tumour that develops in the white part of the eyes. It may also lead to muscle lumps on the eyelids. It can however be cured with surgeries and radiation therapy.

Treatment of HIV eye infection:

• Antiviral intravenous medicines are widely used
• Oral medication like Valcyte or valganciclovir should be taken regularly
• Medical transplant can be carried out through surgery.
• Anti retroviral therapy, which are designs to suit the eyes can also be helpful

It is true that the eye infections are a cause of HIV. But it can be treated very easily. The only thing one has to keep in mind is to get a check-up early before the infection reaches an acute stage. It can be treated with normal medicines or implants, which is relatively a new method.