[Bilateral acute angle-closure glaucoma due to an infection with Hantavirus]

Abstract

A poor general condition of patients with hemorrhagic fever and elevated creatinine should raise suspicion of a systemic infection with Hantavirus. This can often also cause ocular changes. Above all, changes of intraocular pressure, in our case bilateral acute angle-closure glaucoma, due to edema and hemorrhage in the ciliary body result in anterolateral rotation of the iris-lens diaphragm with closure of the chamber angle. It can also cause a transient myopia, and intraretinal hemorrhages can also occur. Hantavirus infection is mostly transmitted through red-backed voles in Europe. The predominant type in Europe is the Puumala virus that can lead to an epidemic nephropathy with high fever, headache, gastrointestinal complaints, and an impaired renal function to the point of renal failure. No specific treatment is needed, but adequate symptomatic therapy is of utmost importance. When the infection has been overcome, complete recovery is possible. Measures for prophylaxis should be taken with respect to contact with mice and their excreta.