Ophthalmic Manifestations in HIV Positive patients and the Indian Perspective

Abstract

The Eye is a vital sense organ and much like any other organ in the body can be afflicted by HIV. An ophthalmic referral at the time of presentation must be ensured by the treating physician. The ophthalmologist must take utmost care while examining and treating such patients to avoid patient to patient and patient to healthcare provider spread of HIV. A detailed ophthalmic examination for the various manifestations must be done and timely intervention for the same must be carried out which is critical to prevent ocular morbidity. Highly Active Anti Retroviral Therapy (HAART) is safe and has been instrumental in lowering sight threatening complications of HIV such as CMV retinitis.