Eye Concerns

CMV Retinitis is a serious infection of the retina.

What are the causes?

Affects nearly half of people with AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) and may also affect people with other immune disorders. Most infections happen when a person's T cell count drops below 40.

What are the symptoms?

You may have CMV Retinitis if you have AIDS or another immune disorder and you see

• Floating spots
• Flashing lights
• Blind spots or blurred vision

 

How can it be treated?

There are several medications that minimize or eliminate CMV Retinitis, including Bausch & Lomb's sustained-release ocular implant, Vitrasert® . Implanted during an outpatient procedure, Vitrasert® delivers therapy directly to the infection site, minimizing systemic toxicity. There are also some oral drugs that slow CMV infections.

The earlier you begin treatment, the more your vision can be helped. And, if only one eye is infected, taking any of these medications may protect the other eye.