Ocular manifestations in Dengue fever

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of Dengue fever resulting in permanent visual loss in both eyes due to retinal capillary occlusion.

Methods: Case report.

Results: Severe permanent visual loss occurred in a patient with Dengue fever. Dilated fundus exam showed vascular sheathing with associated retinal hemorrhages at the equator and cotton wool spots in the maculae of both eyes. Fluorescein angiography revealed areas of capillary nonperfusion at the equator and in the macula. The diagnosis of Dengue fever was confirmed by serology detecting IgM antibodies to the Dengue virus.

Conclusion: Ocular abnormalities may be seen in patients with Dengue fever, therefore ophthalmoscopy should be performed in patients presenting with severe forms of the disease.