# Cytomegalovirus Retinitis Complicated With Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in a Non-HIV Patient With Pure Red Cell Aplasia

## TL;DR

A non-HIV patient with a blood disorder developed CMV retinitis and retinal detachment, highlighting the need for early detection and treatment in immunocompromised individuals.

## Contribution

Reports a rare case of CMV retinitis with retinal detachment in a non-HIV patient with pure red cell aplasia.

## Key findings

- CMV retinitis was confirmed via PCR and serology in a 57-year-old patient on ciclosporin.
- The patient developed rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in the left eye, requiring surgical intervention.
- Treatment with ganciclovir improved outcomes, but cataract formation occurred post-surgery.

## Abstract

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the Herpesviridae family. It can cause CMV retinitis, an opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients. This is a sight-threatening condition that can be further complicated by rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). In this case report, we described a 57-year-old gentleman with underlying pure red cell aplasia on ciclosporin who presented with blurred vision in both eyes. The retinal findings showed frosted branch angiitis, granular appearance, and scattered retinal hemorrhages. Confirmation of CMV retinitis was done using polymerase chain reaction of the vitreous sample and CMV serum serology. The patient was treated with intravenous ganciclovir and intravitreal ganciclovir in the right eye. He developed CMV-related RRD in the left eye, for which he underwent retinal detachment surgery with a good anatomical outcome, but developed a significant cataract. Early recognition and treatment of CMV retinitis can improve visual outcomes. Physicians and patients on any form of immunosuppression should be familiar with the symptoms of CMV retinitis and retinal detachment.