Ocular Manifestations of Human Immunodeficiency Virus

Abstract

A knowledge of the ocular manifestations of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is becoming increasingly important as the number of patients infected with HIV increases. The ophthalmologist plays an important role in making life-and sight-saving diagnoses. This is becoming more paramount as the life expectancy is prolonged and quality of life is improved with advancements in medical therapy. Many of the diseases discussed in this article are altered manifestations of diseases seen in immunocompetent persons: Kaposi's sarcoma; molluscum contagiosum; herpes simplex and herpes zoster keratitis; syphilis; toxoplasmosis; and acute retinal necrosis. Other diseases that present in the posterior segment are solely seen in immunocompromised patients: cytomegalovirus retinitis; Pneumocystis carinii choroidopathy; and progressive outer retinal necrosis. This article discusses diagnostic and clinical features of these and other diseases seen in patients infected with HIV.