Publication date: Jan 01, 2026
To report a case of neuroretinitis as the presenting manifestation of COVID-19 infection alongside varicella-zoster virus reactivation, in the absence of other systemic symptoms. A case report. A previously healthy 15-year-old boy presented with a 1-week history of acute unilateral visual loss and clinical findings consistent with neuroretinitis. Diagnostic work-up revealed a positive polymerase chain reaction test of nasopharyngeal swab for COVID-19 and serology showed the presence of immunoglobulin M and immunoglobulin G antibodies for varicella-zoster virus. After a comprehensive treatment regimen involving IV acyclovir, high-dose IV steroids, and oral doxycycline, rapid and remarkable improvements were observed. The macular star and optic disk swelling regressed, and visual acuity improved from 20/200 to 20/20. This case offers valuable insights into the neuroretinitis associated with COVID-19 infection and varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
Semantics
| Type | Source | Name |
|---|---|---|
| disease | MESH | NEURORETINITIS |
| disease | MESH | COVID-19 |
| disease | MESH | INFECTION |
| disease | MESH | VARICELLA |
| disease | MESH | ZOSTER |
| drug | DRUGBANK | Acyclovir |
| drug | DRUGBANK | Doxycycline |
| disease | MESH | star |
| disease | MESH | Eye Infections Viral |
| disease | MESH | Varicella Zoster Virus Infection |