Uveal Effusion Associated with Presumed Viral Encephalitis

Abstract

Background: Uveal effusion is a rare disease that is characterized by exudative detachment of the ciliary body and choroid. Herein, we report a rare case of uveal effusion associated with viral encephalitis, which resolved following the treatment of the viral encephalitis and administration of corticosteroids.

Case presentation: A 67-year-old man who was hospitalized for viral encephalitis was referred to our clinic. He had been treated for herpes zoster ophthalmicus in his left eye 3 weeks previously. Choroidal detachment and uveal effusion between the ciliary body and sclera were observed. He was prescribed oral and topical steroids and cycloplegics to treat uveal effusion, and an antiviral agent (Acyclovir) to treat viral encephalitis. After 4 weeks, the choroidal detachment resolved completely.

Conclusions: Uveal effusion syndrome can develop in association with viral encephalitis and be treated successfully with oral and topical steroids; we suggest that medical treatment should be attempted prior to surgery.

Abbreviations: ADEM: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis; BCVA: Best corrected visual acuity; CSF: Cerebrospinal fluid; CT: Computed tomography; MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging; WBC: White blood cell.