Viruses Causing Ocular Disease (Easy Notes) | Viral Eye Infections You Cannot Afford to Miss

Viruses Causing Ocular Disease | Clinical Notes & Management Welcome to Topic 11 of the Ocular Disease & Microbiology series on Optometry Notes\! In this revision guide, we cover the key viruses responsible for common and sight-threatening ocular infections. Learn about clinical presentations, classic diagnostic signs (like dendritic ulcers and Hutchinson's sign), infection control, and antiviral pharmacology for optometry and ophthalmology exams and clinical practice. ----- TOPICS COVERED: Viral Biology: DNA vs RNA, enveloped vs non-enveloped virus resistance Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Trigeminal latency, dendritic ulcers, disciform keratitis, and steroid risks Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV): Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) and Hutchinson's sign Adenovirus: Epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC), fomite spread, preauricular node, and subepithelial infiltrates Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Retinitis: Immunosuppression (CD4 below 50), "pizza pie" fundus appearance, and treatment Eyelid Viruses: Molluscum contagiosum and chronic conjunctivitis, HPV lesions HIV & Ocular Manifestations: Retinopathy, opportunistic infections, and CD4 staging Antiviral Drugs: Aciclovir, valaciclovir, ganciclovir, and foscarnet mechanisms ----- KEY CLINICAL PEARLS: HSV: Dendritic ulcer with terminal bulbs, reduced corneal sensation. Never use topical steroids alone. HZO: Hutchinson's sign (vesicle on nose tip) indicates nasociliary involvement and high risk of ocular complications. Adenovirus: Extremely stable on surfaces; strict disinfection and hand hygiene are critical. CMV: Brushfire / pizza-pie retinitis in severe immunosuppression, treated with ganciclovir. ----- Subscribe to Optometry Notes for easy, high-yield study notes and clinical revision guides\! \#OptometryNotes \#Ophthalmology \#OcularDisease \#ViralKeratitis \#EyeInfections \#OptometryStudent