ABSTRACT

Discussion:

Ocular toxoplasmosis is the most common form of posterior uveitis that can lead to vision loss. The establishment of diagnosis is often based on clinical view and serological tests are helpful in the diagnostic process. The disease is self-limiting in immunocompetent people. The purpose of the treatment is to prevent complications and recurrence.

Results:

The average age of the patients was 29.7 (range: 16-50) years and the female/male ratio was 33/24. 43 patients (75.86%) had first attack, while 14 patients (24.14%) had recurrence of ocular toxoplasmosis. In 12 patients (20.7%), the macular retina and in 14 patients (24.14%), the peripheral retina was involved. 9 patients (15.5%) had atypical signs of ocular toxoplasmosis. Patients with clinical appearance compatible with ocular toxoplasmosis and positive serological tests have been given triple therapy consisting of pyrimethamine + sulfadiazine + corticosteroid (only for cases with vision-threatening macular and posterior pole involvement) for 4-6 weeks.

Material and Method:

57 patients who have received a diagnosis of active ocular toxoplasmosis (first attack and/or recurrence) in uvea department at Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, Eye Clinic between 1996 and 2007 were evaluated retrospectively. The average follow-up period was 5.2 years. Visual acuity and ocular pressure values of the patients were recorded. Anterior and posterior segment findings were evaluated with biomicroscopy. Tests for Toxoplasma-specific IgG and IgM antibodies were repeated two times with one-week intervals in cases with clinical appearance compatible with ocular toxoplasmosis.

Purpose:

To evaluate the clinical features, follow-up and treatment results in patients diagnosed with ocular toxoplasmosis.