Nonnecrotizing herpetic retinopathies masquerading as severe posterior uveitis.

OBJECTIVE: Aqueous humor analysis can be performed in severe atypical forms of posterior uveitis unresponsive to conventional treatment to exclude a viral infection.

DESIGN: Noncomparative interventional case series.

PARTICIPANTS: Thirty-seven immunocompetent patients seen with corticosteroid-resistant forms of posterior uveitis underwent extensive evaluation, including anterior chamber paracentesis, to rule out a nonnecrotizing viral retinopathy.

INTERVENTION: Aqueous fluid samples were prospectively obtained. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and serologic evaluation of intraocular antibody production against herpesviruses were performed by molecular techniques and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Polymerase chain reaction and local antibody production for herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus were determined on aqueous fluid samples.

RESULTS: Viral infection was confirmed in 5 cases (13.5%). Clinical presentation included birdshot-like retinochoroidopathy, occlusive bilateral vasculitis, and cystoid macular edema. An antiviral regimen was initiated in all cases. Inflammation was stabilized, and steroid dosage could be significantly reduced.

CONCLUSIONS: Identification of a viral agent during severe posterior uveitis can dramatically change therapeutic management.