DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF CYTOMEGALOVIRUS RETINITIS IN AIDS

Infection with HIV produces a derangement of cell-mediated immunity th at can result in cytomegalo virus retinitis in 20% to 30% of affected individuals. The clinical features of initial and recurrent cytomegalo virus retinitis are presented, and the rationale for regular screening of patients with AIDS is reviewed. Intravenous ganciclovir and foscar net are currently the only anticytomegalovirus medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Clinical trials of oral and intravi treal administration routes, as well as the role of synergy between th ese agents, are ongoing. In addition, trials of a new class of anticyt omegalovirus medication, and cytomegalovirus chemoprophylaxis are comm encing. The indications, and the anatomic and visual results of cytome galovirus retinal detachment surgery are discussed.