Monkeypox (Mpox) can cause a variety of eye issues that can result in vision loss
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Aug 18, 2024 4 weeks, 2 days, 13 hours, 51 minutes ago
Mpox News: Recent research has highlighted a worrying trend: the Monkeypox (Mpox) virus, already known for its severe impact on skin and general health, can also cause significant eye issues, potentially leading to vision loss. This
Mpox News report delves into the findings of a comprehensive study reveiew conducted by an international team of researchers from institutions including the Universidad del Rosario in Colombia, New York University School of Medicine-USA, and the Singapore Eye Research Institute. Their work underscores the importance of recognizing and treating the ophthalmic manifestations of Mpox to prevent severe complications and vision loss.
Monkeypox (Mpox) can cause a variety of eye issues that can result in vision loss
Multiple papular lesions on the right eyelid and Ulceration of the palpebral conjunctiva.
Understanding the Risk
Mpox is not just a skin disease. While the virus primarily affects the skin, with symptoms such as rashes, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, it can also extend its reach to the eyes, leading to a variety of ocular problems. These issues range from mild conjunctivitis to severe conditions like keratitis and even blindness. This article highlights the need for greater awareness of these risks among healthcare providers and the general public.
Key Findings: Ophthalmic Manifestations of Mpox
The systematic review and meta-analysis provide a detailed look at the spectrum of eye-related issues associated with Mpox. The study reviewed data from 60 articles, including case reports, case series, cross-sectional studies, and cohorts. The researchers found that ophthalmic manifestations could be present in up to 40% of Mpox cases.
Common eye issues include:
-Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the conjunctiva, observed in a significant number of cases.
-Keratitis: Inflammation of the cornea, which can lead to corneal ulcers and scarring.
-Eyelid Lesions: Including swelling, papules, and in severe cases, necrosis.
-Scleritis: Inflammation of the sclera, the white outer layer of the eye, although this was less commonly reported.
One particularly concerning finding is that these eye issues often appear as the first symptom of Mpox, even before more typical symptoms like skin rashes. This early onset highlights the need for prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term damage.
Treatment Approaches: What Works?
The study also reviewed treatment options for these ophthalmic manifestations. Antiviral therapy, particularly with tecovirimat, has been used with varying success. Topical treatments, such as eye drops containing steroids or anti
biotics, are often employed to manage inflammation and prevent bacterial superinfection. However, the study notes that the evidence supporting these treatments is still limited, and more research is needed to establish the most effective protocols.
In severe cases, where the virus causes significant damage to the cornea, patients may require more aggressive interventions, such as surgery to prevent or correct vision loss. The study highlights the importance of early intervention and suggests that all patients with Mpox should undergo regular eye examinations to catch these issues before they escalate.
The Importance of Awareness and Early Diagnosis
The study findings emphasize that healthcare providers need to be vigilant in monitoring Mpox patients for eye-related symptoms. Given the potential for these symptoms to precede more typical Mpox signs, early diagnosis is crucial. Ophthalmologists, in particular, should be aware of the possibility of Mpox when patients present with unexplained eye inflammation, especially if accompanied by a recent history of skin rashes or other systemic symptoms.
A Call for Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights into the ophthalmic manifestations of Mpox, it also highlights the need for further research. Many of the findings are based on case reports and small studies, which limits the ability to draw definitive conclusions about the best treatment practices. The researchers call for more extensive, controlled studies to better understand the mechanisms by which Mpox affects the eyes and to develop more effective treatments.
Conclusion: Protecting Vision in the Face of a New Threat
The findings of this study are a stark reminder that Mpox is more than just a skin disease. Its potential to cause serious eye problems, including vision loss, makes it a significant public health concern. By raising awareness of these risks and promoting early diagnosis and treatment, we can protect the vision and overall health of those affected by this virus.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Heliyon.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844023057699
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Read Also:
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7142e1.htm
https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4915/15/3/616
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/the-mpox-virus-s-f3-protein-triggers-immune-responses-and-apoptosis
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/unveiling-the-role-of-monkeypox-mpox-virus-a23-protein-in-human-cells
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/new-insights-into-understanding-mpox-s-evasion-of-the-immune-system
