Uveitis and Posterior Ophthalmic Manifestations Following the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Vaccine

Abstract

Purpose: To present four cases of posterior ophthalmic manifestations associated with a temporal relationship to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.

Methods: Retrospective case series with a review of clinical findings.

Results: Four patients presented with various posterior ophthalmic findings including uveitis, maculopathy, and optic neuropathy. Each of their clinical courses varied in terms of ophthalmic imaging and exam findings.

Conclusion: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has ushered in a new wave of challenges to healthcare, epidemiological endeavors, and widespread vaccination efforts. Novel vaccines have been developed for the SARS-CoV-2 virus, including both mRNA and viral vector-based platforms. The ocular manifestations and side effects related to the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is not well established or understood. There may be an association between vaccination and posterior ophthalmic manifestations.

Keywords: COVID-19; Coronavirus; inflammation; mRNA; maculopathy; optic neuropathy; pandemic; uveitis; vaccination; viral.