Common Ocular Complications of AIDS
Ocular Conditions Related to AIDS
AIDS is a disease that affects a person’s immune system. With the body’s ability to fight off illness and infection compromised, it becomes more likely that the eyes and other parts of the body become affected by the disease. It is common for patients with AIDS to experience ocular complications. These complications vary from patient to patient and can impact all parts of the eye, including the anterior, the interior, and the nerves of the eye. Below are some common ocular complications of AIDS:
- Eye infections: Eye infections are much more common than most people realize. The risk of an eye infection is especially high for patients with HIV or AIDS. Some infections that are particularly common among AIDS patients include blepharitis, candida (a yeast infection), and herpes.
- HIV retinopathy: HIV retinopathy is a condition that affects the blood vessels of the retina. Patients with this condition develop small hemorrhages and white spots (a result of blocked blood vessels) in the retina.
- CMV retinitis: CMV retinitis is a serious eye infection that commonly affects patients with more advanced stages of HIV or AIDS. This infection causes inflammation of the retina, as well as blood loss. This infection can progress quickly and, if left untreated, can result in significant vision loss in just a matter of months.
- Retinal detachment: Retinal detachment, the condition in which the retinal tissue pulls away from the back of the eye, can affect any patient. However, retinal detachment is a particular risk for AIDS patients, especially those suffering from CMV retinitis. Retinal detachment leads to vision loss and requires surgical treatment.
- Kaposi’s sarcoma: Kaposi’s sarcoma is a rare form of eye cancer that can cause lesions to develop on the eyelids or that can lead to the development of a tumor on the conjunctiva (the membrane that covers the white of the eye). While this condition causes noticeable disfigurement, it is fortunate that it does not often damage the eye or compromise vision, and can usually be treated.
Preventing Permanent Eye Damage
AIDS patients need to be vigilant when it comes to monitoring eye health to prevent permanent damage or vision loss. Most ocular complications of AIDS are directly related to low CD4+ T lymphocyte counts, so it is extremely important for HIV and AIDS patients to undergo medical treatment and follow any prescribed medication regime. In addition, AIDS patients should schedule routine eye exams at least once a year. Should any unusual symptoms develop between appointments, they should be reported to one of our eye doctors right away. Symptoms that may indicate an infection or other complication include the following:
- Blurry vision
- Flashes or floaters
- Eye pain or sensitivity
- Compromised eye movement
- Swelling
- Growths or blisters on the eyes or eyelids
In the event that an infection or eye disease does develop, our team of doctors offers a wide range of treatments to eliminate infection, restore vision, and prevent permanent eye damage.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are looking for an experienced doctor who understands the unique ocular risks of AIDS patients, you will find what you are looking for at Retina Associates, LLC Whether you are due for a routine eye exam or have concerns about the health of your eyes, our team of doctors can help. Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more about our comprehensive eye care services.