HYPOPYON UVEITIS ASSOCIATED WITH RIFABUTI N THERAPY IN A PATIENT WITHAIDS

Background Rifabutin is a new semisynthetic rifamycin which is approve d in Germany for clinical application since 1/15/95. The drug is used for prophylaxis and treatment of Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (M AI) infection in patients with AIDS. In 1994 it was reported that rifa butin can cause anterior uveitis. This side effect is dose-dependent a nd aggravated, when the drug is combined with clarithromycin and/or fl uconazol. Patient A 32-year-old woman suffered from acquired immunodef iciency syndrome and systemic MAI. She was treated with a combination of rifabutin (450 mg/day), clarithromycin (750 mg/day) and ethambutol (800 mg/day). 78 days later she developed a unilateral hypopyon iritis . Results Rifabutin was discontinued and topical steroids and mydriati cs were given. The uveitis disappeared within two weeks. Conclusions T he ophthalmologist should be aware of this new potential etiology of a nterior uveitis. Rifabutin should be withdrawn immediately. Anti-infla mmatory eyedrops might be helpful.