Currently, the dengue fever which is an endemic affliction of the tropical areas is very much rampant in various parts of the country, causing a great concern to our people. The disease can cause eye complications with symptoms of mild to serious threatening of vision in 10 percent of the sero-positive patients during hospitalisation. Dengue fever is caused by arbovirus, which has predilection for small blood vessels in the body and Central Nervous System. It is an immune-mediated disorder rather than a direct viral infection. During hospitalisation patient may complain of gross visual disturbances in one or both eyes. He may suffer permanent loss of vision if not treated well in time. A detailed study has been reported by two main hospitals from Singapore and accordingly the usual complications of dengue fever are Optic Neuritis and Dengue Neuropathy mainly involving the Optic Nerve and Macula – the most sensitive part of the retina (the visual membrane) with maximum vision. The treating physicians are strongly advised if they find the signs of the above said afflictions, it should be treated with a course of IV Methylprednisolone (starting with 1G daily for three days), to be repeated if necessary after consulting the senior eye specialist of the hospital.
Though the complications are uncommon yet they are very serious, as these have far reaching economic consequences for the society. Therefore, the patient in general and the treating physician in particular must keep in mind the possible complications while evaluating the patient. In fact, a routine examination should be carried out if the patient complains of event the slightest visual disturbance.
DR M YASIN KHAN DURRANI
Rawalpindi
