Cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the eye typically refers to CMV retinitis, a full-thickness retinal infection that can lead to necrosis, retinal breaks, and detachments. It is particularly significant as an ocular AIDS-associated illness.
In greater detail:
-
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): CMV is a common virus that can infect people of all ages. Most healthy individuals experience mild or no symptoms. However, in people with weakened immune systems (such as those with AIDS or transplant recipients), CMV can cause serious complications.
-
CMV Retinitis: This is an infection of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) caused by CMV.
-
Pathology: CMV retinitis involves full-thickness retinal infection, meaning the virus infects all layers of the retina. This infection can lead to:
- Necrosis: Death of retinal tissue.
- Retinal Breaks: Tears or holes in the retina.
- Retinal Detachment: Separation of the retina from the underlying tissue.
-
Significance in AIDS: CMV retinitis is a major opportunistic infection in people with AIDS. It can cause significant vision loss if left untreated.
Therefore, "CMV in the eye" most commonly describes CMV retinitis, a potentially blinding infection of the retina that is particularly concerning in immunocompromised individuals.
