2020–2021 BCSC Basic and Clinical Science Course™
9 Uveitis and Ocular Inflammation
Chapter 15: Ocular Involvement in AIDS
Ophthalmic Manifestations
Cryptococcus neoformans Choroiditis
The dissemination of C neoformans in patients with AIDS may result in a multifocal choroiditis. Some patients with C neoformans choroiditis show choroidal lesions before clinical evidence of dissemination develops. More typically, C neoformans infection involves the cerebrospinal fluid, and there is secondary optic nerve edema as a result of increased intracranial pressure that can slowly lead to optic atrophy. Direct invasion of the optic nerve by organisms is also possible and can lead to more rapid vision loss. Treatment may include amphotericin and flucytosine.
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Kestelyn P, Taelman H, Bogaerts J, et al. Ophthalmic manifestations of infections with Cryptococcus neoformans in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Am J Ophthalmol. 1993;116(6):721–727.
Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 9 - Uveitis and Ocular Inflammation. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.