Yes, Tuberculosis (TB) can indeed affect eyesight.
How TB Impacts Vision
TB, a bacterial infection primarily affecting the lungs, can also manifest in various other parts of the body, including the eyes. Ocular TB can lead to several sight-threatening conditions.
Tuberculosis Endophthalmitis
- What it is: An active TB lesion within the eye can release bacteria into the vitreous fluid (the gel-like substance filling the eye), causing inflammation and infection known as TB endophthalmitis.
- Severity: This condition is serious and can lead to significant and permanent vision loss if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
- Impact of Delay: Delays in diagnosis and the initiation of anti-TB therapy can greatly increase the risk of irreversible vision damage.
- Reference: According to Ophthalmologic Findings Related to Tuberculosis - EyeWiki, any active TB lesion in the eye can seed the vitreous, leading to TB endophthalmitis, which can be sight-threatening.
Table: Impact of TB on Eye Health
| Condition | Description | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| TB Endophthalmitis | TB bacteria infects the vitreous fluid. | Significant and permanent vision loss possible. |
| Active TB lesions in eye | Any active TB lesion can seed the vitreous fluid. | Risk of developing TB endophthalmitis |
| Delayed diagnosis/treatment | Delay in identifying TB and starting treatment. | Increased risk of irreversible vision loss. |
Symptoms of Ocular TB
While the specific symptoms will vary, some possible indicators of TB affecting the eye can be:
- Blurred Vision
- Eye pain
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Floaters (spots in vision)
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors for TB exposure, it is important to consult an eye care professional immediately.
Conclusion
TB poses a significant risk to eyesight, primarily through conditions like TB endophthalmitis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing vision loss.
